Top 10 Art Schools In Brooklyn And Fees (2025)
Brooklyn, New York, is widely celebrated for its creativity, diversity, and thriving arts scene. From street murals and independent galleries to professional studios and renowned art schools, Brooklyn stands as one of the most inspiring places for artists to learn and grow.
In this post, we’ll explore the best art schools in Brooklyn, their tuition fees, and what makes each institution unique. We’ll also include helpful tips on choosing the right art school and how to finance your art education.
Art Schools In Brooklyn And Fees
1. Pratt Institute
Location: 200 Willoughby Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Estimated Annual Tuition: $57,600
Pratt Institute is one of the most prestigious art schools not just in Brooklyn but in the entire United States. Known for its innovation, rigor, and highly ranked art and design programs, Pratt offers a comprehensive education in fine arts, digital arts, interior design, industrial design, and architecture.
Students at Pratt enjoy access to state-of-the-art studios, digital labs, and galleries where they can showcase their work. The school’s location in Clinton Hill, a creative and cultural hub, provides endless inspiration and networking opportunities.
Pratt’s Fine Arts program is especially acclaimed, allowing students to experiment with multiple mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and new media. The school also emphasizes professional development through internships, exhibitions, and collaborations with NYC-based companies.
Financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships are available to qualified students. Although tuition is on the higher side, Pratt’s reputation and the success of its alumni make it a valuable investment for aspiring artists.
2. Brooklyn College – Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema
Location: 2900 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11210
Estimated Annual Tuition:
- In-State Students: $7,500
- Out-of-State Students: $15,000
Part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, Brooklyn College offers one of the most affordable yet high-quality art programs in New York City. The Feirstein Graduate School of Cinema is particularly noteworthy for film and media arts students.
Located at the iconic Steiner Studios in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the Feirstein School offers cutting-edge training in film, animation, and post-production. Students benefit from a hands-on learning approach using professional-grade equipment and facilities that rival those of major Hollywood studios.
The college also offers undergraduate programs in studio art, graphic design, and television and radio. These programs are designed to help students build strong artistic and technical skills while preparing them for creative careers in NYC’s competitive art and media industries.
For students seeking a balance between affordability and quality, Brooklyn College is an excellent choice.
3. New York City College of Technology (City Tech)
Location: 300 Jay St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Estimated Annual Tuition:
- In-State: $7,500
- Out-of-State: $15,000
City Tech, another CUNY institution, offers art and design programs that combine creativity with technical expertise. The Department of Communication Design (COMD) is among the most popular, offering concentrations in graphic design, illustration, and web design.
Students at City Tech receive a solid foundation in both traditional art principles and modern digital technologies. The program emphasizes visual communication, digital production, and conceptual thinking, equipping graduates for careers in advertising, publishing, web development, and branding.
City Tech’s affordability and central location near Downtown Brooklyn make it attractive to both local and international students who want access to New York’s creative industries without the financial burden of a private art college.
4. St. Francis College – Art and Design Department
Location: 179 Livingston St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Estimated Annual Tuition: $28,000
St. Francis College provides a liberal arts-based education with a focus on creativity, culture, and critical thinking. The Art and Design Department offers degrees in Fine Arts, Digital Media, and Communication Arts, blending traditional and contemporary approaches to art education.
Students enjoy small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and access to exhibitions both on campus and around Brooklyn. The college’s location near Downtown Brooklyn allows students to engage directly with the local art scene through internships, gallery visits, and collaborations with art collectives.
St. Francis emphasizes developing well-rounded artists who can think critically, communicate effectively, and adapt to diverse creative environments. The tuition is mid-range, and financial aid options are widely available, making it an ideal choice for those who value both affordability and personal attention.
5. LIU Brooklyn – Media Arts and Design Program
Location: 1 University Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Estimated Annual Tuition: $38,000
Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus offers strong programs in Media Arts, Digital Design, and Performing Arts. The Media Arts and Design program prepares students for careers in film, animation, photography, and new media production.
What sets LIU Brooklyn apart is its emphasis on integrating art, technology, and communication. Students have access to advanced studios, editing labs, and professional production equipment. Courses often blend creative exploration with practical skills, ensuring graduates can thrive in the modern creative economy.
LIU’s location in Downtown Brooklyn offers proximity to NYC’s film and art industries, giving students internship opportunities with studios, galleries, and design firms. The university also offers scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to help offset tuition costs.
6. Brooklyn Academy of Art and Design (BAAD)
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Estimated Annual Tuition: $25,000
The Brooklyn Academy of Art and Design (BAAD) is a small, specialized institution dedicated to nurturing young artists and designers. It offers certificate and diploma programs in fine arts, illustration, fashion design, and digital arts.
BAAD’s hands-on, studio-based learning approach allows students to experiment freely and develop their own artistic voices. The school organizes frequent exhibitions, artist talks, and community projects that connect students to the vibrant Brooklyn arts scene.
Its smaller size means students benefit from close mentorship and individualized training. Tuition is relatively affordable compared to larger art institutions, making BAAD an appealing option for aspiring artists who want a personal and immersive education experience.
7. BRIC Arts Media Education Program
Location: 647 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Estimated Program Fees: $1,000–$5,000 (varies by course)
BRIC is not a traditional degree-granting school, but its Arts Media Education Program deserves mention for its accessibility and real-world focus. BRIC offers short-term courses and workshops in digital media, photography, filmmaking, and graphic design.
Its training programs are ideal for emerging artists, freelancers, and professionals who want to expand their skills without committing to a full-time degree. Classes are taught by industry experts, and BRIC provides students access to production studios, equipment rentals, and networking opportunities.
The program’s affordability, flexibility, and practical orientation make it perfect for Brooklyn residents looking to boost their creative careers.
8. The School of Visual Arts – Brooklyn Extension
Location: Brooklyn Satellite Campus
Estimated Annual Tuition: $52,000
While the main campus of the School of Visual Arts (SVA) is in Manhattan, its Brooklyn Extension programs have grown significantly. SVA offers continuing education and certificate courses in areas like animation, photography, visual storytelling, and illustration.
SVA is globally recognized for producing top-tier artists and designers who work with leading creative companies worldwide. Its instructors are often practicing professionals, giving students valuable insights into industry expectations.
SVA’s programs in Brooklyn provide the same rigorous standards and creative environment, with the advantage of a more community-centered, collaborative setting. Though tuition is high, its reputation and strong alumni network justify the investment for those seeking elite-level art education.
9. The Art Students League of New York – Brooklyn Workshops
Location: Dumbo, Brooklyn
Estimated Course Fees: $1,200–$4,000 per term
The Art Students League of New York, founded in 1875, has been instrumental in shaping American art. Its Brooklyn workshops cater to students who want to develop foundational and advanced skills in painting, sculpture, and drawing.
The League’s approach is flexible—students can take part-time or full-time classes without the constraints of a degree program. This model attracts both beginners and professional artists seeking to refine their craft.
Brooklyn workshops are held in inspiring spaces surrounded by galleries and studios, making it a great fit for independent learners who value creative freedom and mentorship over formal academic structures.
10. The New York Studio School – Brooklyn Program
Location: Dumbo, Brooklyn
Estimated Annual Tuition: $35,000
The New York Studio School (NYSS) is renowned for its intensive programs in drawing, painting, and sculpture. Its Brooklyn-based programs offer artists a studio-centered education where the focus is on mastery through practice.
NYSS provides a challenging curriculum that emphasizes observation, technique, and critical analysis. Students work alongside accomplished artists and are encouraged to explore both traditional and experimental forms of expression.
While tuition is moderate compared to other private institutions, the school’s reputation for producing serious, disciplined artists makes it an excellent option for those committed to their craft.
How to Choose the Right Art School in Brooklyn
Choosing the best art school in Brooklyn depends on your goals, interests, and budget. Here are key factors to consider:
- Program Focus: Some schools specialize in fine arts, while others excel in digital design, animation, or media arts. Choose based on your creative goals.
- Facilities and Equipment: Check if the school offers modern studios, software, and tools relevant to your field.
- Faculty and Mentorship: Learn about the instructors’ backgrounds—many are practicing artists or industry professionals.
- Location and Community: Brooklyn offers diverse artistic neighborhoods like Dumbo, Williamsburg, and Bushwick, where creativity thrives.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Compare costs and explore scholarships, grants, or work-study options.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities
Most Brooklyn art schools offer scholarships or financial aid to reduce tuition costs. Some common options include:
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded for outstanding portfolios or academic performance.
- Need-Based Aid: Based on family income or financial need.
- External Scholarships: Offered by organizations like the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA).
- Work-Study Programs: Allow students to work part-time on campus while studying.
Applying early and maintaining a strong portfolio increases your chances of receiving aid.
Conclusion
Brooklyn remains one of the most exciting places in the world to study art. From top-tier institutions like Pratt Institute to affordable programs at Brooklyn College and City Tech, the borough offers endless opportunities for creative exploration.
Whether your passion lies in fine arts, digital media, design, or film, Brooklyn’s schools provide the tools, mentorship, and inspiration needed to turn creativity into a thriving career. With a diverse art community, galleries at every corner, and constant cultural exchange, studying art in Brooklyn is not just an education—it’s a lifestyle.
If you’re ready to pursue your artistic dreams, Brooklyn is the perfect canvas to begin your journey.