Hawaii is not just about beaches and tropical beauty — it’s also a vibrant hub of creativity where art and culture thrive side by side. From traditional Polynesian crafts to cutting-edge digital design, Hawaii’s art schools nurture a unique blend of global and local influences.

Whether you’re dreaming of studying fine arts, digital media, photography, ceramics, or design, this guide covers the top 15 art schools in Hawaii, their programs offered, and estimated fees. If you’re looking to turn your passion for creativity into a profession, here’s where to start.

Top 15 Art Schools In Hawaii And Fees

1. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa – School of Art & Art History

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Studio Art
• Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Studio Art
• Concentrations in Painting, Drawing, Ceramics, Sculpture, Printmaking, Photography, Glass, and Digital Art

Fees:
Resident tuition typically falls within the standard University of Hawaii rates, while non-resident tuition is higher. Additional studio and lab fees apply per course.

Overview:
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa stands as the flagship art institution of the islands. With highly equipped studios and experienced faculty, it offers both practical and theoretical foundations for budding artists. The M.F.A. program is especially respected across the Pacific, making UH Mānoa a great choice for those aiming for a professional or academic art career.

2. University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo – Department of Art

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Art
• Concentrations in Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Photography, Textile Art, and Digital Media

Fees:
Undergraduate tuition aligns with UH system rates. In-state students benefit from reduced fees, while non-residents pay higher per-credit rates.

Overview:
UH Hilo offers a community-oriented art education focused on cultural expression and hands-on creativity. The program allows students to explore Hawaii’s unique blend of artistic traditions while gaining experience in modern techniques. It’s a perfect setting for students who want smaller class sizes and a more personal connection with faculty and peers.

3. University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu – Creative Media Program

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Arts in Creative Media
• Concentrations in Design & Media, New Media Technologies, Game Design, and Communications

Fees:
Standard UH undergraduate tuition applies. Residents enjoy affordable semester fees compared to out-of-state students.

Overview:
For students drawn to digital creativity, UH West Oʻahu’s Creative Media program bridges art and technology. Courses in animation, design, and game development prepare graduates for Hawaii’s growing creative industries. This is an ideal choice for those who want to mix visual artistry with innovation and tech.

4. Hawaiʻi Pacific University (HPU) – Department of Art & Design

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Art and Design
• Concentrations in Graphic Design, Studio Art, and Digital Media

Fees:
As a private institution, tuition is higher than state schools, but scholarships and financial aid options are available.

Overview:
Located in downtown Honolulu, HPU offers a global and professional art education with small class sizes. Students benefit from exposure to local galleries, art festivals, and opportunities to work with Honolulu’s design firms. HPU blends the academic study of art with career preparation in commercial and digital design fields.

5. Chaminade University of Honolulu – Visual Arts Program

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Visual Arts
• Courses in Studio Art, Art History, and Digital Design

Fees:
Tuition is consistent with private Catholic university standards, with financial aid and grants available.

Overview:
Chaminade University integrates creativity with liberal arts and ethics. Students explore visual arts while gaining a holistic education that encourages cultural awareness and social impact. It’s a supportive and faith-based environment ideal for well-rounded artistic development.

6. Honolulu Community College – Visual & Performing Arts Department

Programs Offered:

• Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Art
• Certificates in Visual Arts, Ceramics, Photography, and Design

Fees:
Affordable per-credit community college tuition, with additional fees for studio materials.

Overview:
Honolulu CC provides one of the most hands-on, affordable entry points into Hawaii’s art scene. Its programs emphasize foundational art skills and portfolio development for students looking to transfer to four-year universities or pursue local careers in the arts.

7. Kapiʻolani Community College – Art & Design Department

Programs Offered:

• Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Visual Arts
• Certificates in Graphic Design, Digital Photography, and Studio Art

Fees:
Low-cost per-credit tuition under the UH Community College system.

Overview:
Kapiʻolani CC is perfect for students who want flexibility and affordability. With its strong ties to UH Mānoa, it serves as a natural stepping stone for those pursuing advanced art degrees. Its campus also offers great access to Honolulu’s galleries and art markets.

8. Leeward Community College – Fine Arts Program

Programs Offered:

• Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Fine Arts
• Certificates in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, and Photography

Fees:
Standard community college tuition, with additional materials and lab fees per studio course.

Overview:
Leeward CC’s Fine Arts program emphasizes technical skill, creativity, and portfolio readiness. The college’s art faculty are practicing artists who bring real-world insights to the classroom, helping students transition from academic to professional art practice.

9. Windward Community College – Art and Atelier Studies

Programs Offered:

• Associate degrees and certificates in Art
• Atelier-style Drawing & Painting workshops
• Courses in Ceramics, Printmaking, and Photography

Fees:
Community college tuition applies; Atelier workshops may charge separate course fees.

Overview:
Windward CC offers an intimate, creative environment surrounded by lush island scenery. Its popular Atelier program is known for classical training in drawing and painting, making it one of the most respected art programs on Oʻahu’s windward side.

10. University of Hawaiʻi Maui College – Visual Arts Program

Programs Offered:

• Academic Subject Certificate (ASC) in Visual Arts
• Courses in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Digital Media, and Photography

Fees:
Affordable tuition aligned with UH community college rates.

Overview:
UH Maui College serves as a cultural anchor for artists across the island. Students enjoy small class sizes, community exhibitions, and the chance to study art while staying close to home. The college’s emphasis on local culture gives it a unique artistic flavor.

11. Kauaʻi Community College – Visual Arts & Creative Media

Programs Offered:

• Associate of Science (A.S.) and Certificates in Creative Media
• Courses in Digital Photography, Graphic Design, and Visual Arts

Fees:
Tuition follows UH community college rates with low per-credit costs.

Overview:
Located on the Garden Isle, Kauaʻi CC combines creative media technology with fine arts. Its digital design curriculum is ideal for students interested in visual storytelling, media production, and design-based careers.

12. Hawaiʻi Community College – Digital Media & Fine Arts

Programs Offered:

• Associate degrees and certificates in Art and Digital Media Arts
• Courses in Ceramics, Sculpture, Photography, and Textile Arts

Fees:
Community college-level tuition, plus materials and technology fees.

Overview:
Based in Hilo, Hawaiʻi CC promotes creative learning deeply tied to local culture. It’s known for encouraging experimentation and providing practical experience in both traditional and digital art forms.

13. Honolulu Museum of Art School (HoMA) – Continuing Education

Programs Offered:

• Non-degree classes and workshops in Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Ceramics, Photography, Jewelry, and Textile Arts

Fees:
Varies by class; individual courses priced separately. Discounts available for museum members.

Overview:
The HoMA School is the heart of Hawaii’s art community. It’s not a college but an essential resource for lifelong learners, hobbyists, and professionals seeking to refine their craft. The school’s expert instructors and community-focused approach make it a true creative hub in Honolulu.

14. Atelier Studio Program of Fine Arts – Honolulu

Programs Offered:

• Full-time Atelier training in Classical Drawing and Painting
• Short-term Workshops and Intensives

Fees:
Tuition varies by workshop or full-term enrollment. Scholarships may be available.

Overview:
If you’re inspired by the techniques of Old Masters, this program offers world-class classical art training. The Atelier Studio Program emphasizes observational skills, figure drawing, and realistic oil painting — rare offerings in Hawaii’s art landscape.

15. Downtown Art Center & Community Studios (Honolulu)

Programs Offered:

• Short courses in Drawing, Ceramics, Jewelry, Printmaking, and Digital Arts
• Youth and adult community art programs

Fees:
Affordable per-course tuition, typically paid by session or month.

Overview:
For those who want to explore art part-time or without pursuing a degree, Honolulu’s Downtown Art Center and similar studios provide excellent learning opportunities. These centers support local artists, host exhibitions, and offer flexible evening and weekend classes.

How to Choose the Right Art School in Hawaii

When comparing Hawaii’s art schools, keep these key factors in mind:

1. Your Career Goals

• Choose UH Mānoa or UH Hilo if you want a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fine arts.
• Pick HPU or Chaminade for private university environments with strong design and digital art programs.
• Opt for community colleges if you’re starting out and plan to transfer later.

2. Preferred Medium

• For classical drawing or painting: Atelier Studio or Windward CC.
• For digital media and game design: UH West Oʻahu or HPU.
• For ceramics or fiber arts: UH Hilo, Maui College, or Hawaiʻi CC.

3. Budget

Public schools offer affordable in-state tuition. Private universities cost more but offer scholarships and smaller class sizes. Community colleges are the most budget-friendly option and often have modern facilities.

4. Location & Lifestyle

Choose your campus based on your preferred island and environment. Oʻahu offers the most options, while Maui, Kauaʻi, and the Big Island provide smaller, more intimate art communities.

Estimated Tuition Summary

School	Tuition Type	Estimated Annual Tuition (USD)
UH Mānoa	Public	$11,000 (in-state) / $34,000 (out-of-state)
UH Hilo	Public	$9,000 / $28,000
UH West Oʻahu	Public	$8,500 / $26,000
Hawaiʻi Pacific University	Private	$32,000
Chaminade University	Private	$29,000
UH Community Colleges	Public	$3,500 – $5,000
Atelier Studio Program	Private	$5,000 – $10,000 (program-dependent)
HoMA / Community Art Centers	Per class	$200 – $600 per workshop

(Figures are approximate and may vary annually.)

Conclusion 

Studying art in Hawaii means more than just earning a degree — it’s about immersing yourself in a place where creativity flows naturally. Whether you’re painting ocean landscapes, designing digital art inspired by island life, or studying traditional Polynesian craft, Hawaii offers an unmatched setting to develop your artistic voice.

From prestigious universities like UH Mānoa to intimate programs like the Atelier Studio, every aspiring artist can find a home here. Choose a school that aligns with your goals, explore the island’s artistic culture, and let Hawaii’s natural beauty fuel your creativity.