Dallas, Texas, is one of America’s fastest-growing creative hubs. Known for its vibrant art galleries, design firms, and cultural festivals, the city offers countless opportunities for aspiring artists to learn, experiment, and grow. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a professional painter, designer, sculptor, or multimedia artist, Dallas has a school to fit every style, schedule, and budget.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in Dallas and nearby areas, highlighting the programs offered and the tuition or fees for each one. Let’s dive in.

Top 15 Art Schools In Dallas And Fees

1. Meadows School of the Arts – Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Program Offered:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History & Theory
• MFA in Studio Art
• Minors in Graphic Design, Photography, and Art History

Fees: Approximately $61,880 per year (tuition), plus around $7,800 in student fees. Housing and meals are additional.

The Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University is widely considered the leading fine arts program in North Texas. Students have access to professional-grade studios, an extensive art library, and numerous internship opportunities in the Dallas Arts District. The curriculum combines creativity with entrepreneurship, helping students navigate the real-world art economy.

2. The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) – School of Arts and Humanities

Program Offered:

• BA/BFA in Visual Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Digital Media)
• Minor programs in Art & Performance
• Graduate MA/MFA in Art and Technology

Fees: In-state undergraduate tuition is typically $13,000–$15,000 per year, while out-of-state students may pay $39,000–$42,000 per year.

UT Dallas blends art and technology through its innovative Visual Arts program. Students learn both traditional and digital techniques, making it ideal for those pursuing animation, digital design, or multimedia art. The campus’s proximity to major tech firms also means strong internship opportunities for digital creatives.

3. University of North Texas (UNT) – College of Visual Arts and Design (Denton)

Program Offered:

• BFA in Studio Art (Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, Printmaking, Drawing)
• BFA in Graphic Design
• MFA programs in Fine Arts and Design

Fees: In-state tuition averages $12,000 per year, while out-of-state tuition can be around $31,000 per year.

Located just 40 minutes from downtown Dallas, UNT’s College of Visual Arts and Design is one of the largest and most respected art schools in the southern U.S. The college offers extensive studio facilities, international art exchange programs, and a vibrant gallery culture. It’s perfect for students seeking a traditional fine arts foundation with modern relevance.

4. Texas Christian University (TCU) – School of Art (Fort Worth)

Program Offered:

• BFA and BA in Studio Art
• BA in Art History
• BFA in Graphic Design
• MFA programs available

Fees: Around $63,500 per year for full-time undergraduate students.

Though located in nearby Fort Worth, TCU’s School of Art is part of the wider Dallas–Fort Worth creative network. The program offers intimate class sizes, expert faculty mentorship, and exhibition opportunities through campus galleries. Students graduate with both artistic skill and professional readiness to work in design or fine arts.

5. Dallas College – School of Creative Arts, Entertainment, and Design

Program Offered:

• Associate of Arts (AA) in Studio Art
• AAS in Graphic Design, Animation, or Visual Communication
• Certificates in Digital Photography, UX/UI, or Video Production

Fees: $99 per credit hour for Dallas County residents (about $3,000–$4,000 per year).

Dallas College is one of the most affordable ways to start an art education in the metro area. With campuses like Brookhaven, Eastfield, and Richland offering creative programs, students can learn technical and creative skills before transferring to a four-year university or entering the workforce.

6. Brookhaven College (Dallas College Campus)

Program Offered:

• AA in Art (transfer degree)
• Studio courses in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, and Photography

Fees: Approximately $99 per credit hour (Dallas County residents).

Brookhaven offers a strong studio art foundation ideal for transfer students planning to continue toward a BFA. Its art department is well-equipped and hosts annual student exhibitions that highlight new creative talent emerging from North Dallas.

7. Richland College (Dallas College Campus)

Program Offered:

• AA in Art
• Courses in Painting, Drawing, Ceramics, and Design Foundations
• Photography and Graphic Design tracks

Fees: $99 per credit hour for in-county students.

Richland College, located in northeast Dallas, features an active art scene with its own on-campus gallery. Students benefit from mentorship by experienced instructors and opportunities to exhibit in local art events.

8. Eastfield College (Dallas College Campus)

Program Offered:

• Associate Degree in Fine Arts
• Studio Courses in Ceramics, Painting, Sculpture, and Design
• Digital Photography and Graphic Design Certificates

Fees: Around $99 per credit hour.

Eastfield offers a friendly and community-driven atmosphere for aspiring artists. The campus provides professional-level art studios and affordable access to foundational art courses for both beginners and transfer students.

9. Collin College – Visual Arts Program (Plano & McKinney Campuses)

Program Offered:

• Associate of Arts (AA) in Visual Arts
• AAS in Studio Art
• Courses in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, and Sculpture

Fees: In-district tuition is $65 per credit hour, totaling about $2,000–$3,000 per semester.

Collin College is ideal for students looking for smaller classes, affordable tuition, and hands-on learning. Graduates often transfer to larger universities or begin careers in local art galleries and design firms.

10. Dallas Baptist University (DBU) – Visual Arts Department

Program Offered:

• BA in Fine Arts
• Concentrations in Graphic Design, Digital Art, and Visual Communication

Fees: Approximately $19,000 per semester for full-time undergraduate study.

DBU offers art programs grounded in Christian values, emphasizing creativity, ethics, and community service. The school is located near Mountain Creek Lake, offering a peaceful and inspiring environment for creative expression.

11. Dallas College – Cedar Valley & Mountain View Campuses

Program Offered:

• Associate Degrees in Studio Art
• Certificate courses in Digital Media, Photography, and Visual Design

Fees: $99 per credit hour for Dallas County residents.

These southern Dallas campuses make art education accessible to more students across the region. Both campuses feature modern digital labs and community-oriented art programs that prepare students for creative careers.

12. Sofia Art Academy – Dallas Campus

Program Offered:

• Classical Drawing & Painting
• Teen Portfolio Preparation
• Adult Atelier Programs

Fees: Vary by program; workshops and classes typically range from $300–$600 per session.

Sofia Art Academy offers classical European art training using traditional techniques in drawing and painting. It’s ideal for students seeking a professional art portfolio or those pursuing a career in illustration or fine art realism.

13. Creative Arts Center of Dallas (CAC)

Program Offered:

• Community classes and workshops in Ceramics, Metal Sculpture, Jewelry, Painting, and Mixed Media
• Specialized short-term art courses for all levels

Fees: Fees vary depending on class length; most workshops cost $150–$500. Scholarships and discounts are available.

The Creative Arts Center of Dallas is one of the oldest and most active community art schools in the city. It offers flexible courses for adults, working artists, and beginners looking to explore new mediums in a collaborative environment.

14. Studio Arts Dallas

Program Offered:

• Portfolio Prep for Teens
• Adult Art Classes in Drawing, Painting, and Mixed Media
• Summer Camps and Art Intensives

Fees: Average $250–$600 per session, depending on duration and materials.

Studio Arts Dallas focuses on individual creative development. Students receive personalized guidance to improve their portfolios, preparing them for art college admissions or freelance art careers.

15. J’s Art Studio (Private Art School)

Program Offered:

• Youth and Teen Portfolio Classes
• Adult Painting, Drawing, and Watercolor Workshops
• Short Art Camps and Courses

Fees: Typically $200–$500 per course, depending on session length.

J’s Art Studio offers a fun and inspiring environment for young artists and adults alike. With multiple locations around Dallas, it’s one of the most accessible private studios for creative learning and personal growth.

How to Choose the Right Art School in Dallas

With so many options, selecting the right art school can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips:

1. Define Your Artistic Goals

If you want a degree (BFA, BA, MFA), focus on universities like SMU, UNT, UT Dallas, or TCU. If you want hands-on skills or short certificates, Dallas College and community art centers are great starting points.

2. Consider Your Budget

Private universities are more expensive but often provide more networking and facilities. Public universities and community colleges offer excellent value and transferable credits for students planning to continue to a four-year degree.

3. Explore the Curriculum

Choose a program that aligns with your creative interests—be it painting, digital art, photography, or sculpture. Schools like UT Dallas excel in digital art and media, while Sofia Art Academy focuses on classical fine art training.

4. Check Faculty and Facilities

Experienced instructors, well-equipped studios, and gallery opportunities all enhance your learning experience. Visit campuses to see if their studios and teaching style match your creative needs.

Why Study Art in Dallas?

Dallas is home to one of the most active art districts in the country. Students here gain real-world experience through internships with local galleries, design firms, and creative studios. The city’s mix of fine art and commercial design industries means that graduates can find opportunities across multiple creative sectors—from advertising and gaming to gallery management and illustration.

Quick Comparison Table

School	Program Type	Average Annual Tuition
SMU – Meadows	BFA, MFA	$61,880
UT Dallas	BA, BFA, MFA	$13,000–$42,000
UNT	BFA, MFA	$12,000–$31,000
TCU	BFA, MFA	$63,500
Dallas College	AA, AAS, Certificates	$3,000–$4,000
Collin College	AA, AAS	$2,500–$3,500
DBU	BA	$38,000 (annual estimate)
Sofia Art Academy	Workshops	$300–$600/session
CAC Dallas	Community Classes	$150–$500/class
Studio Arts Dallas	Classes	$250–$600/session
J’s Art Studio	Workshops	$200–$500/course

Conclusion

Whether you’re pursuing a degree, polishing your portfolio, or learning art as a passion, Dallas offers opportunities for everyone. From prestigious programs at SMU and TCU to affordable certificates at Dallas College and hands-on classes at local art centers, you’ll find the perfect path to nurture your creativity.

Before enrolling, check each school’s official website for the latest tuition rates and admission details. Visit campus galleries, attend art fairs, and talk to current students—nothing beats firsthand experience when deciding where to invest your creative future.