Top 20 Art Schools In Indiana And Fees (2025)
Indiana is home to some of the best art schools in the Midwest, offering programs that blend traditional fine arts with modern digital design. Whether you’re passionate about painting, sculpture, photography, or graphic design, Indiana’s art institutions provide an inspiring environment for creativity and professional growth.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 20 art schools in Indiana, their programs offered, and estimated fees to help you choose the right fit for your artistic goals.
Top 20 Art Schools In Indiana And Fees
1. Herron School of Art + Design – Indiana University (IUPUI), Indianapolis
Programs Offered:
- BFA in Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Ceramics, Photography
- BFA in Graphic Design and Illustration
- Art Education Programs and MFA Degrees
Estimated Fees:
In-state tuition is covered under IU Indianapolis rates. Studio and course material fees vary by program.
Overview:
Herron is the most recognized art school in Indiana, known for combining rigorous training with real-world exposure. Students have access to advanced studio facilities and frequent exhibition opportunities. Located in downtown Indianapolis, Herron provides unmatched networking potential for emerging artists.
2. Indiana University Bloomington – School of Art, Architecture + Design
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art
- Graphic Design, Art History, and Interior Design
- MFA and MA graduate programs
Estimated Fees:
IU Bloomington follows the public university tuition rates for Indiana residents, with small variations by department.
Overview:
As one of the top-ranked art schools in the Midwest, IU Bloomington offers world-class faculty and creative spaces, including print shops and sculpture studios. Students benefit from interdisciplinary opportunities that connect art with business, media, and technology.
3. Ball State University – Department of Art
Programs Offered:
- BFA/BA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Illustration
- Art Education and MFA in Design
Estimated Fees:
Ball State’s in-state tuition is among the most affordable in the state, with additional studio fees depending on materials.
Overview:
Ball State combines hands-on learning with professional preparation. The Department of Art emphasizes creative experimentation and offers exceptional facilities, including glass studios and digital labs. Its teacher-preparation track is one of the strongest in Indiana.
4. Purdue University – Department of Art and Design (West Lafayette)
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Visual Art and Art History
- Graphic Design, Industrial Design, and Integrated Studio Practice
Estimated Fees:
Purdue’s undergraduate tuition rates vary by residency, with additional fees for certain design and lab courses.
Overview:
Purdue University merges technology and creativity. Its art program is ideal for students who wish to blend engineering principles with design aesthetics. Students gain access to modern digital labs and design studios.
5. Butler University – Jordan College of the Arts
Programs Offered:
- BFA and BA in Visual Art
- Graphic Design, Illustration, and Art Education
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition rates apply, but scholarships and art-specific grants are widely available.
Overview:
Butler University offers an intimate learning environment where students receive one-on-one mentorship. The Jordan College of the Arts hosts regular exhibitions, guest artist residencies, and portfolio reviews.
6. DePauw University – Department of Art and Art History (Greencastle)
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art and Art History
Estimated Fees:
Private college tuition; financial aid and merit scholarships are common.
Overview:
DePauw provides a liberal-arts-centered art education, encouraging creativity across disciplines. Students exhibit their works in on-campus galleries and often pursue internships in Indianapolis and Chicago.
7. University of Notre Dame – Department of Art, Art History & Design
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art, Art History, and Design
- Specialized minors in architecture and visual communication
Estimated Fees:
Notre Dame’s tuition reflects private university rates, but need-based aid is generous.
Overview:
Notre Dame blends classical art education with cutting-edge design practice. The university emphasizes artistic excellence, critical theory, and professional preparation through studio-based and research-driven courses.
8. Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW) – Art & Design Programs
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education
Estimated Fees:
Public university tuition rates apply; check for regional campus updates on fees.
Overview:
PFW’s Department of Art and Design offers modern studios and strong ties to local art galleries. Students can showcase their work in professional settings even before graduation.
9. Indiana State University – Department of Art (Terre Haute)
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, Art Education
- Graduate programs in Art Education and Studio Art
Estimated Fees:
Public university tuition; material fees depend on studio use.
Overview:
Indiana State University focuses on developing well-rounded artists and art educators. Its Art Gallery provides students with real exhibition experience, and the program is known for its supportive community.
10. Valparaiso University – Art & Design Department
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, Digital Media
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition rates with generous scholarship packages.
Overview:
Valparaiso’s art department integrates fine arts with digital design, preparing students for creative careers in both traditional and emerging media.
11. University of Southern Indiana (USI) – Department of Art and Design
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, Art Education
Estimated Fees:
Public tuition rates apply; in-state residents benefit from low costs.
Overview:
Located in Evansville, USI offers an interactive learning environment with a focus on community engagement. The school has partnerships with local art councils and museums for internships.
12. Ivy Tech Community College – Fine Arts and Design Pathways
Programs Offered:
- Associate of Fine Arts (AFA)
- Associate of Science (Art Transfer Pathways)
Estimated Fees:
Community college tuition — one of the most affordable in the state.
Overview:
Ivy Tech provides an excellent foundation for aspiring artists who plan to transfer to four-year institutions. Students get hands-on training in drawing, design, and digital media at an affordable rate.
13. Earlham College – Art Department (Richmond)
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art and Art History
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition with need-based and merit-based scholarships available.
Overview:
Earlham College promotes creativity and experimentation. Students benefit from international art trips, exhibitions, and mentorship from working artists.
14. Taylor University – Department of Visual & Performing Arts (Upland)
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, Photography
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition; scholarships and need-based aid available.
Overview:
Taylor University integrates faith, creativity, and design thinking. The small class sizes foster personalized guidance and artistic growth.
15. Marian University – Art & Design Department (Indianapolis)
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, Art Education
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition with scholarship options for art majors.
Overview:
Marian University offers strong community engagement through art exhibitions and collaborative projects. Students are encouraged to explore the social impact of art.
16. Huntington University – Art and Design Department
Programs Offered:
- BA in Visual Art, Graphic Design, and Multimedia
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition; scholarships for art majors available.
Overview:
Huntington focuses on developing both the technical and creative aspects of art. It offers a faith-based learning environment with modern studio facilities.
17. Hanover College – Art Department
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art and Art History
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition with annual scholarship opportunities.
Overview:
Hanover College emphasizes personal creativity and portfolio development. Students gain exposure through student-led exhibitions and national competitions.
18. Anderson University – Department of Visual Arts
Programs Offered:
- BA/BFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition; financial aid widely available.
Overview:
Anderson University’s art program merges theory with practice. It’s perfect for students seeking a small, creative, and faith-driven campus culture.
19. Manchester University – Art & Design Department
Programs Offered:
- BA in Studio Art with concentrations in Drawing, Painting, and Digital Art
Estimated Fees:
Private tuition rates; scholarship opportunities offered.
Overview:
Manchester emphasizes the liberal-arts side of art education. Students learn to use art as a tool for communication, activism, and innovation.
20. Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology – Design and Technical Arts Tracks
Programs Offered:
- Design minors, Technical Illustration, and Visual Communication courses
Estimated Fees:
Private engineering school tuition rates; varies by credit load.
Overview:
Though known for engineering, Rose-Hulman offers strong art and design electives that appeal to students interested in blending creativity with technology.
How to Choose the Right Art School in Indiana
Choosing an art school involves more than comparing tuition. Here’s what to consider before applying:
- Type of Degree:
- A BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) is best for those seeking professional art careers.
- A BA (Bachelor of Arts) provides flexibility for double majors.
- Studio and Material Fees:
Ceramics, photography, and printmaking programs often charge additional fees for materials and studio use. - Accreditation and Transfer Pathways:
If starting at a community college like Ivy Tech, ensure your credits transfer to a four-year art school. - Scholarships and Financial Aid:
Many Indiana schools offer portfolio-based scholarships or departmental grants.
Tips for Aspiring Art Students
- Start building your portfolio early. Include both classwork and personal projects.
- Visit campus galleries. Seeing student work helps you gauge program quality.
- Network with professors and local artists. Many Indiana schools have community gallery connections.
- Apply for art competitions. Winning or participating can boost your portfolio and scholarship chances.
Conclusion
Indiana offers a vibrant art education scene — from the professional environment at Herron School of Art + Design to the community-oriented programs at USI and Ivy Tech. Whether you prefer a large university or a close-knit liberal-arts college, there’s a school here that can help you grow as an artist, designer, or educator.
Before enrolling, compare tuition rates, explore available scholarships, and visit the campus to experience the creative energy firsthand.