Top 20 Art Schools In Colorado And Fees (2025)
Colorado is known not only for its stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes but also for its thriving creative scene. From Denver’s vibrant galleries to Boulder’s experimental studios, the state offers world-class opportunities for aspiring artists, designers, and creatives.
If you’re searching for the best art schools in Colorado, this guide ranks the top 20 institutions—including universities, art colleges, and community programs. For each school, you’ll find its programs offered and an overview of fees, helping you make the best academic and financial decision for your artistic journey.
Top 20 Art Schools In Colorado And Fees
1. University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder)
Programs Offered:
- BA and BFA in Studio Art
- BFA in Art Practices
- Art History
- MFA in Fine Arts
- Concentrations in painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, photography, and digital/new media
Fees:
In-state tuition: approximately $24,000–$26,000 per year
Out-of-state tuition: higher, depending on the program
CU Boulder’s Department of Art & Art History is one of the most respected in the Rocky Mountain region. The Visual Arts Complex offers modern studios and gallery spaces where students explore creativity across traditional and digital disciplines. Its partnerships with the CU Art Museum and visiting-artist programs make it a prime choice for serious art students.
2. Colorado State University (CSU) – Fort Collins
Programs Offered:
- BA and BFA in Art & Art History
- MFA in Studio Arts
- Concentrations in ceramics, painting, graphic design, photography, sculpture, and art education
Fees:
In-state: around $12,000–$14,000 per year
Out-of-state: approximately $30,000+ per year
CSU’s Department of Art and Art History emphasizes both fine art and applied design. Students enjoy access to state-of-the-art studios, visiting artist residencies, and a dynamic student exhibition calendar. The school’s mix of traditional craft and modern technology ensures graduates are industry-ready.
3. University of Denver (DU) – Denver
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art
- MFA in Fine Arts
- Concentrations in painting, sculpture, design, and illustration
Fees:
Private university tuition: around $55,000–$58,000 per year
The University of Denver’s School of Art & Art History offers small class sizes and individualized mentorship. DU’s private setting allows students to work closely with professional artists while accessing Denver’s growing gallery network. The university’s emphasis on critical theory and modern design gives graduates a competitive edge.
4. University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) – College of Arts & Media
Programs Offered:
- BFA in Visual Arts
- Concentrations in illustration, 3D graphics & animation, photography, and painting
Fees:
In-state: around $13,000 per year
Out-of-state: approximately $35,000 per year
CU Denver’s College of Arts & Media is one of the top-rated creative programs in the U.S. West. Its animation and illustration programs are particularly strong, with alumni working for major studios and digital firms. Located in the heart of Denver, it provides excellent networking opportunities.
5. Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) – Lakewood
Programs Offered:
- BFA in Animation, Graphic Design, Illustration, Fine Arts, and Fashion Design
- MFA in Fine Arts
Fees:
Private art college tuition: around $34,000–$37,000 per year
RMCAD is a specialized art and design institution offering an immersive creative experience. Small classes and hands-on studio work define its culture. The college’s strong ties with Denver’s art community and design industries make it an ideal choice for career-focused artists.
6. Colorado College – Colorado Springs
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art
- BA in Art History
- Studio concentrations in painting, printmaking, and installation
Fees:
Private liberal arts college tuition: around $65,000 per year
Colorado College follows a unique “Block Plan” system, where students take one class at a time. This intensive learning model allows art majors to fully immerse themselves in creative projects. The college’s small size and emphasis on interdisciplinary art make it one of the most distinctive programs in the state.
7. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)
Programs Offered:
- BA and BFA in Art and Design
- Concentrations in Graphic Design, Studio Arts, Photography, and Animation
Fees:
In-state: around $12,000 per year
Out-of-state: about $25,000 per year
MSU Denver is known for offering quality art programs at an affordable price. Its downtown campus location allows students to connect with galleries, artists, and design studios across Denver.
8. Naropa University – Boulder
Programs Offered:
- BA in Visual Arts
- MFA in Contemplative Arts
- Interdisciplinary arts and mindfulness-based creative programs
Fees:
Private university tuition: approximately $35,000 per year
Naropa’s Visual Arts program is rooted in mindfulness and contemplative education. Students explore creativity as both an inner and outward journey, often blending performance, visual expression, and spirituality.
9. University of Northern Colorado (UNC) – Greeley
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Art
- Art Education
- Studio concentrations in ceramics, painting, and digital art
Fees:
In-state: around $10,000–$12,000 per year
Out-of-state: about $25,000–$30,000 per year
UNC’s art department combines creative development with teaching training. It’s an ideal school for those interested in both studio practice and art education.
10. Colorado Mesa University – Grand Junction
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art
- Graphic Design
- Photography
- Art Education
Fees:
In-state: roughly $11,000–$13,000 per year
Located in western Colorado, this university provides affordable art programs with access to dedicated studio spaces and a growing arts community.
11. Western Colorado University – Gunnison
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art
- Concentrations in painting, ceramics, printmaking, and sculpture
Fees:
In-state: around $10,000–$12,000 per year
Western Colorado University’s remote mountain setting creates a peaceful environment for creative growth. The small classes and individual mentorship make it perfect for focused artists.
12. Fort Lewis College – Durango
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art
- Art History
- Graphic Design
Fees:
In-state: about $10,000–$11,000 per year
Fort Lewis College provides a close-knit art community with hands-on studio experience. Its Durango location attracts students inspired by nature and indigenous art traditions.
13. Regis University – Denver
Programs Offered:
- BA in Art & Design
- Graphic Design and Digital Media
- Art History
Fees:
Private tuition: about $42,000 per year
Regis University offers a creative education rooted in social awareness and technology. Students benefit from modern digital labs and internship opportunities with Denver-based design firms.
14. Adams State University – Alamosa
Programs Offered:
- BA in Art
- Concentrations in Graphic Design, Ceramics, and Painting
Fees:
In-state: about $9,000–$10,000 per year
Adams State offers affordable, high-quality art education. Its studio courses and art exhibitions allow students to build strong professional portfolios.
15. Aims Community College – Greeley
Programs Offered:
- Associate Degrees in Studio Art and Graphic Design
- Certificates in Digital Media
Fees:
Affordable community college tuition: around $5,000–$6,000 per year
Aims Community College is ideal for students beginning their artistic journey. It provides foundational courses with transfer pathways to major universities.
16. Red Rocks Community College – Lakewood
Programs Offered:
- Associate Degrees in Art and Graphic Design
- Certificates in Photography and Digital Media
Fees:
Approx. $5,000–$6,000 per year
Red Rocks CC offers hands-on art training with transfer options to CU Denver and CSU. The campus boasts excellent studio resources and experienced faculty.
17. Emily Griffith Technical College – Denver
Programs Offered:
- Certificates in Graphic Design and Digital Arts
- Multimedia Production
Fees:
Varies by course, typically $3,000–$5,000 per program
This technical college focuses on practical art skills for immediate employment. It’s great for aspiring designers, illustrators, and digital artists looking to upskill.
18. Colorado State University Pueblo – Pueblo
Programs Offered:
- BA in Art
- Studio Art and Art Education
Fees:
In-state: around $10,000 per year
CSU Pueblo offers a personal learning experience and affordable tuition. Students gain real-world art exhibition exposure through university galleries.
19. Iliff School of Art (Independent Programs) – Denver
Programs Offered:
- Short courses and certificates in Fine Arts, Illustration, and Film
Fees:
Vary widely by course and duration
This private art school offers specialized workshops for adult learners and professional artists seeking advanced techniques or creative renewal.
20. Denver Art Museum & Community Art Conservatories
Programs Offered:
- Non-degree and continuing education courses in Painting, Photography, and Sculpture
Fees:
Varies by program; short-term classes often range $500–$2,000
The Denver Art Museum and local conservatories host year-round workshops and courses. These are perfect for professional development or portfolio enhancement.
How to Choose the Right Art School in Colorado
Choosing an art school isn’t just about prestige—it’s about fit, faculty, and focus. Here are key things to consider:
- Program Focus: Do you prefer fine arts or design? A BFA emphasizes studio work, while a BA includes broader academics.
- Location: Urban schools like CU Denver or DU connect you to galleries and internships. Mountain campuses like Western Colorado or Fort Lewis offer quiet inspiration.
- Costs: Compare tuition and housing. Public universities offer great value for in-state students.
- Facilities: Look for updated studios, darkrooms, and digital labs.
- Career Support: Schools like RMCAD and CU Denver have strong ties to creative industries.
- Scholarships: Most schools offer merit or need-based aid—always explore these early.
Conclusion
Colorado is a state where creativity thrives—where art meets nature, and imagination meets opportunity. Whether you want to be a painter, designer, sculptor, or animator, there’s a school that fits your artistic dream and your budget.
From the nationally recognized CU Boulder and RMCAD to affordable options like MSU Denver and Aims Community College, the Centennial State offers art education for every ambition.
So, grab your sketchbook, explore these programs, and start your creative journey in Colorado today.