Top 15 Art Schools In Iowa And Fees (2025)

If you’re looking to pursue your passion for art in Iowa, you’re in luck — the state is home to some of the best art programs in the Midwest. From prestigious universities offering Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees to smaller liberal arts colleges with personalized studio environments, Iowa provides creative students with diverse opportunities to develop their artistic skills.

Whether your interest lies in painting, ceramics, graphic design, sculpture, photography, or digital media, this guide explores the Top 15 Art Schools in Iowa, including programs offered and estimated tuition fees to help you make the right choice.

Top 15 Art Schools In Iowa And Fees

1. University of Iowa — School of Art & Art History (Iowa City)

The University of Iowa is nationally recognized for its School of Art & Art History, one of the most prestigious in the Midwest. Its faculty includes nationally exhibited artists, and students benefit from state-of-the-art studios, galleries, and research facilities.

The school’s Art and Art History programs allow students to explore everything from painting and ceramics to intermedia and metalwork. The university also offers graduate degrees, making it a top choice for students pursuing advanced study in fine arts.

Programs offered:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art
• BA in Art History
• MFA, MA, and Ph.D. programs in Art & Art History

Tuition & fees:
For in-state undergraduates, tuition starts around $9,000 per year, while non-residents pay roughly $31,000 annually. (Check the official website for updates.)

2. Iowa State University — College of Design (Ames)

The College of Design at Iowa State University blends art, architecture, and design to create an innovative learning environment. Students learn to combine artistic expression with problem-solving skills applicable to careers in design, illustration, and multimedia arts.

With access to cutting-edge labs, digital design studios, and exhibition spaces, students receive professional-level training.

Programs offered:

• BA and BFA in Integrated Studio Arts
• BA in Art History
• MFA in Integrated Visual Arts

Tuition & fees:
In-state students pay around $10,400 per year, while out-of-state students pay about $26,000 per year.

3. University of Northern Iowa — Department of Art & Design (Cedar Falls)

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) offers a vibrant community of creative thinkers and makers. The Department of Art & Design emphasizes both traditional studio techniques and digital innovation.

UNI is especially known for preparing future art educators through its comprehensive art education program, along with diverse studio areas like ceramics, sculpture, painting, photography, and graphic design.

Programs offered:

• BFA and BA in Studio Art
• Art Education (Teacher Licensure)
• BA in Art History
• Graphic Design

Tuition & fees:
In-state tuition averages $9,500 annually, while non-resident students pay approximately $21,000 per year.

4. Drake University — Department of Art & Design (Des Moines)

Located in Iowa’s capital city, Drake University combines liberal arts education with hands-on studio practice. The program emphasizes creativity, design thinking, and professional presentation through frequent exhibitions and internships.

Students can explore drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, or graphic design, with experienced faculty guiding them toward artistic excellence.

Programs offered:

• BFA and BA in Studio Art
• BA in Art History
• BFA/BA in Graphic Design

Tuition & fees:
Private university tuition averages $50,000 per year, though generous scholarships are available to reduce costs.

5. Grinnell College — Department of Studio Art (Grinnell)

Grinnell College offers an intimate learning experience within a liberal-arts setting. Its studio art program focuses on critical thinking and experimentation across media. Students can access advanced facilities for sculpture, photography, printmaking, and new media.

With small class sizes and one-on-one mentorship, Grinnell encourages artistic exploration and academic excellence.

Programs offered:

• BA in Studio Art
• Art History courses and interdisciplinary art electives

Tuition & fees:
Annual tuition is approximately $64,000, but need-based financial aid and scholarships are widely available.

6. Coe College — Art & Design (Cedar Rapids)

At Coe College, art students experience an environment that fosters creativity, technique, and professional growth. The curriculum blends liberal-arts learning with rigorous studio training.

Students explore various media, from painting and sculpture to digital art, under the guidance of accomplished faculty. Coe’s galleries provide frequent opportunities for exhibitions.

Programs offered:

• Major and Minor in Studio Art
• Art History courses
• Digital Art & Design concentration

Tuition & fees:
Coe’s tuition averages $52,000 per year, with additional financial aid options for art majors.

7. Cornell College — Department of Art (Mount Vernon)

Known for its One-Course-At-A-Time curriculum, Cornell College allows art students to fully immerse themselves in one subject at a time. This model fosters deep focus and creative flow, perfect for studio disciplines.

Students explore painting, sculpture, ceramics, and photography while developing personal portfolios and participating in exhibitions.

Programs offered:

• BA in Studio Art
• BA in Art History
• Pre-Architecture pathway

Tuition & fees:
Annual tuition is approximately $52,600, with potential merit-based scholarships.

8. Luther College — Department of Visual & Performing Arts (Decorah)

Luther College offers a dynamic Studio Art program within a liberal-arts setting, emphasizing both craftsmanship and concept. Students work closely with faculty to develop technical skills and artistic identity.

The program encourages internships, exhibitions, and study-abroad opportunities to expand students’ creative perspectives.

Programs offered:

• Studio Art Major/Minor
• Art History
• Interdisciplinary Studio Courses

Tuition & fees:
Tuition averages $49,000 per year, with multiple art and academic scholarships.

9. Buena Vista University — School of Liberal Arts (Storm Lake)

Buena Vista University (BVU) provides hands-on art training that combines studio practice with professional readiness. Students gain foundational skills in design, ceramics, painting, and photography while building strong portfolios.

BVU also offers art education programs for students planning to teach at the K–12 level.

Programs offered:

• BA/BS in Studio Art
• Art Education Licensure
• Concentrations in Painting, Ceramics, Photography, and Design

Tuition & fees:
Tuition costs around $41,000 annually for full-time undergraduates.

10. Simpson College — Art & Design Department (Indianola)

Simpson College combines the benefits of small classes with a comprehensive art education. Students develop their creative voice through studio projects, exhibitions, and art history courses.

The college’s proximity to Des Moines offers networking opportunities with galleries and art professionals.

Programs offered:

• BA in Studio Art
• Art Education Major
• Minor in Art History

Tuition & fees:
Simpson’s tuition stands at around $47,500 per year, excluding housing and studio fees.

11. Wartburg College — Visual & Performing Arts Department (Waverly)

Wartburg College promotes creativity through its holistic liberal-arts education. The Visual and Performing Arts Department helps students integrate art with community engagement and service.

Students showcase their work in the college gallery and participate in exhibitions that connect art with real-world impact.

Programs offered:

• Studio Art Major/Minor
• Art History and Digital Media Courses

Tuition & fees:
Annual tuition is about $47,000, with scholarships available for talented artists.

12. Loras College — Department of Art & Design (Dubuque)

At Loras College, art students thrive in an encouraging community focused on creativity, communication, and technical proficiency.

With modern studios and collaborative learning, students explore drawing, sculpture, and design in both traditional and digital formats.

Programs offered:

• BA in Studio Art
• Minor in Art
• Courses in Digital Design and Mixed Media

Tuition & fees:
Loras College tuition averages $48,500 per year before scholarships.

13. Clarke University — Art Department (Dubuque)

Clarke University offers an engaging art program emphasizing skill development and self-expression. The university’s small size allows for personalized attention and mentorship.

Students can take part in exhibitions, workshops, and creative events throughout the year.

Programs offered:

• Studio Art Major/Minor
• Art Education Track
• Applied Arts Courses

Tuition & fees:
Tuition averages $47,500 annually, with available merit-based aid.

14. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) — Visual Arts Program

DMACC is one of Iowa’s most affordable and accessible paths into the art world. Its Visual Arts program offers foundational courses that can transfer to four-year institutions. Students gain skills in design, drawing, and digital media, perfect for portfolio development.

Programs offered:

• Associate of Arts (AA) in Visual Arts
• Certificates in Digital Design, Drawing, and Illustration

Tuition & fees:
Tuition for in-state students averages around $5,200 per year, making it an excellent budget option.

15. Kirkwood Community College — Visual Arts Program (Cedar Rapids)

Kirkwood Community College is another affordable option for aspiring artists. It offers strong transfer programs to Iowa’s four-year universities, along with hands-on studio courses. Students build portfolios through foundational classes in drawing, painting, ceramics, and digital media.

Programs offered:

• Associate of Arts (AA) in Visual Arts
• Certificates in Fine Arts and Design Fundamentals

Tuition & fees:
Annual in-state tuition averages $5,000, with art materials costing extra for studio courses.

How to Choose the Best Art School in Iowa

Selecting the right art school is more than just comparing tuition costs — it’s about finding a program that matches your creative goals and career vision. Here are some quick tips:

1. Determine Your Artistic Focus

If you’re interested in studio-based practice (like ceramics, sculpture, or printmaking), consider BFA programs at the University of Iowa or Iowa State. For a broader liberal-arts experience, private colleges like Grinnell or Coe are ideal.

2. Compare Studio Facilities

Not all schools offer the same level of equipment. If you want access to professional photography studios or metalworking labs, research each program’s resources before applying.

3. Consider Transfer Options

Community colleges like DMACC and Kirkwood offer affordable foundations with transfer agreements to top universities — perfect for saving money before completing a bachelor’s degree.

4. Review Scholarship Opportunities

Most private schools in Iowa provide generous merit-based scholarships, often reducing tuition by 30–50%. Apply early and prepare a strong art portfolio.

5. Visit Campus and Galleries

Campus visits give you a feel for studio culture, community, and resources. Check out student exhibitions and talk to faculty to understand their approach to art instruction.

Conclusion

Iowa may not be the first state that comes to mind when people think of art education, but it’s home to an impressive range of creative institutions. Whether you choose a large public university or a small liberal-arts college, you’ll find programs designed to help you express your creativity and launch a fulfilling artistic career.

From the University of Iowa’s prestigious MFA programs to the affordable pathways at DMACC and Kirkwood, the state offers opportunities for every budget and artistic dream. Explore each school’s website, confirm current tuition fees, and start preparing your portfolio — your artistic future in Iowa awaits!