New Orleans, Louisiana, isn’t just famous for jazz, Creole cuisine, and colorful festivals—it’s also one of the most inspiring cities for aspiring artists in the United States. Whether you dream of becoming a fine artist, graphic designer, filmmaker, or performer, the Crescent City offers diverse art schools with world-class training.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in New Orleans and their fees, highlighting what makes each institution special, the programs they offer, and how you can begin your creative journey in this vibrant city.
Top 15 Art Schools In New Orleans And Fees
1. New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA)
Tuition: Free for Louisiana residents
The New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) is one of the most prestigious pre-professional art schools in the region. It offers tuition-free programs for Louisiana students and focuses on developing young talents in visual arts, creative writing, theatre, music, and digital media.
NOCCA is known for its rigorous studio environment that mirrors a professional arts conservatory. Students work with experienced mentors while balancing academic excellence with creative growth. Graduates from NOCCA have gone on to top universities like Juilliard and CalArts, as well as careers in fine arts, film, and performance.
2. Tulane University – School of Liberal Arts (Department of Art)
Tuition: Approximately $63,700 per year
Tulane University offers a nationally recognized Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and BA in Studio Art. The curriculum blends liberal arts education with intensive studio practice in painting, printmaking, digital art, and sculpture.
Students at Tulane enjoy access to professional-grade facilities like the Woldenberg Art Center, multiple galleries, and collaborative exhibitions with local artists. Tulane’s location in the heart of Uptown New Orleans also provides students with opportunities to engage with the city’s rich art culture.
3. Loyola University New Orleans – College of Music and Media
Tuition: Around $49,170 per year
Loyola’s College of Music and Media is a creative hub for visual and performing arts. It offers degrees in Visual Communication, Studio Art, Graphic Design, Digital Filmmaking, and Music Industry Studies.
The university emphasizes both artistic excellence and professional readiness, preparing students for creative careers in design, film, and digital media. The school’s strong industry connections and small class sizes create an engaging learning experience.
4. University of New Orleans (UNO) – Fine Arts Department
Tuition: About $8,500 per year (in-state); $15,000 (out-of-state)
UNO provides a cost-effective yet high-quality art education. The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art includes concentrations in painting, photography, printmaking, and digital arts. Students benefit from hands-on studio instruction and regular exhibitions at the UNO St. Claude Gallery.
UNO’s fine arts program encourages creativity with a strong academic foundation, making it a great choice for both local and international students.
5. Delgado Community College – Visual Arts Department
Tuition: About $4,200 per year (in-state)
Delgado offers an Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) degree designed for students planning to transfer to four-year universities. Programs include drawing, ceramics, painting, and photography.
This affordable college provides excellent foundational training for aspiring artists on a budget. Delgado’s art department also partners with local museums and galleries, allowing students to showcase their work in community settings.
6. Dillard University – School of Humanities
Tuition: Approximately $19,740 per year
Dillard University offers a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts that integrates traditional studio techniques with contemporary artistic practices. Students explore various mediums including sculpture, design, and digital arts.
Dillard emphasizes creativity through cultural heritage and personal expression, preparing graduates for roles in education, galleries, and professional studios.
7. Xavier University of Louisiana – Art Department
Tuition: About $27,200 per year
Xavier’s Art Department offers a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts with concentrations in studio art and art education. The program blends creative practice with academic inquiry, giving students both artistic and pedagogical skills.
As one of the top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Xavier nurtures a vibrant and inclusive artistic community.
8. New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts (NOAFA)
Tuition: Varies by course; around $400–$800 per class
The New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts focuses on professional-level instruction for artists of all backgrounds. It offers workshops and certificate programs in painting, life drawing, photography, and sculpture.
The academy’s flexible schedule makes it ideal for working artists and those seeking part-time or continuing education opportunities.
9. Nunez Community College – Fine Arts Program
Tuition: Around $4,000 per year
Located just outside New Orleans, Nunez offers a General Fine Arts Program where students can take courses in drawing, art history, and design. It’s a great option for students planning to transfer to a four-year art school.
Nunez emphasizes creative fundamentals, affordability, and community engagement.
10. Southeastern Louisiana University – Visual Arts Program
Tuition: Around $8,000 per year (in-state)
Though located an hour from New Orleans, Southeastern Louisiana University attracts many NOLA-based students. It offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art with concentrations in drawing, ceramics, photography, and new media.
The program combines artistic development with liberal arts education, helping students build both creative and professional skills.
11. Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO)
Tuition: About $7,000 per year
SUNO offers a Bachelor of Arts in Visual and Performing Arts with concentrations in Art Education and Studio Art. The program promotes cultural awareness and community involvement through artistic practice.
Students benefit from small classes, supportive faculty, and a curriculum that encourages self-expression and creativity.
12. Delgado Sidney Collier Campus – Creative Arts Program
Tuition: Around $4,000 per year
This Delgado branch specializes in practical creative arts education, offering courses in graphic design, animation, and digital illustration. The program suits students who want to enter the creative workforce quickly.
The campus provides modern digital labs and affordable tuition, making it a smart start for emerging artists.
13. Studio School New Orleans
Tuition: Varies by program; typically $500–$1,000 per workshop
Studio School New Orleans focuses on modern and experimental art practices. It offers workshops and short courses in painting, printmaking, and creative writing.
This independent institution is ideal for professional artists seeking advanced skill development or art lovers looking to explore creative hobbies.
14. NOLA School of Art
Tuition: Varies by course (average $300–$700 per class)
The NOLA School of Art provides part-time courses in painting, mixed media, and digital design. It’s open to all skill levels and offers flexible scheduling.
The school fosters a welcoming environment that celebrates personal creativity and local artistic traditions.
15. Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts (LAAPA)
Tuition: About $140–$250 per month (per class)
While best known for its music programs, LAAPA also offers visual arts and digital media classes for children and adults. Students learn painting, cartooning, and digital illustration in small group settings.
The academy’s focus on creativity and accessibility makes it perfect for families and beginners interested in the arts.
How to Choose the Best Art School in New Orleans
When selecting an art school, consider:
- Program type: Degree vs. certificate vs. workshop
- Tuition and financial aid
- Studio facilities and faculty
- Opportunities for exhibitions and internships
- Location and artistic community
New Orleans offers something for every artist—whether you’re looking for an affordable associate program, a professional bachelor’s degree, or continuing education workshops.
Conclusion
The art scene in New Orleans thrives on creativity, culture, and collaboration. From prestigious institutions like Tulane University and NOCCA to affordable colleges like Delgado and UNO, there’s a place for every artist to learn, grow, and succeed.
Whether you’re a high school student, college-bound artist, or creative professional, New Orleans offers countless opportunities to bring your vision to life.