Top 15 Art Schools In Los Angeles And Fees (2025)
Los Angeles isn’t just the world’s entertainment capital—it’s also a global hub for creativity and artistic innovation. From Hollywood’s studios to downtown’s galleries, LA offers countless opportunities for artists to refine their craft and build successful careers. Whether you’re passionate about visual arts, digital design, animation, or fine arts, Los Angeles has a vibrant mix of art schools that cater to every creative dream.
In this post, we’ll explore the Top 15 Art Schools in Los Angeles and their fees, along with what makes each institution stand out.
Top Art Schools In Los Angeles And Fees
1. University of Southern California (USC) – Roski School of Art and Design
The USC Roski School of Art and Design is one of Los Angeles’ most prestigious art schools, combining rigorous academics with real-world artistic exposure. The Roski School offers programs in Fine Arts, Design, and Art Curatorship, helping students merge creativity with entrepreneurship.
Students enjoy access to cutting-edge studios, digital labs, and internship opportunities with major art galleries and entertainment companies in LA.
Tuition: Approximately $63,468 per year for undergraduates.
Location: University Park, Los Angeles, CA
2. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – School of the Arts and Architecture
The UCLA School of the Arts and Architecture is one of the top-ranked public art schools in the United States. It offers a range of programs in Fine Arts, Art History, and Design Media Arts.
Students benefit from UCLA’s interdisciplinary approach, connecting art with technology, architecture, and performance. The school’s location near major art districts allows for extensive networking and exhibition opportunities.
Tuition: About $13,752 per year (in-state) and $46,326 per year (out-of-state).
Location: Westwood, Los Angeles, CA
3. Otis College of Art and Design
Founded in 1918, Otis College of Art and Design is one of LA’s oldest independent art institutions. Known for its hands-on learning model, Otis offers programs in Fine Arts, Fashion Design, Digital Media, and Product Design.
Students get direct exposure to Los Angeles’ creative industries through internships and collaborations with top brands. The college also emphasizes sustainability and innovation in art.
Tuition: Approximately $52,460 per year.
Location: Westchester, Los Angeles, CA
4. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
Founded by Walt Disney, CalArts is a world-renowned institution that encourages experimentation and creativity across all art forms. The school offers degrees in Fine Arts, Animation, Film, Music, Theater, and Dance.
CalArts’ graduates have gone on to become some of the biggest names in animation, film, and contemporary art. The school’s emphasis on independent creative expression makes it a powerhouse in global art education.
Tuition: Around $58,680 per year.
Location: Valencia (Greater Los Angeles area), CA
5. ArtCenter College of Design
The ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena is known for producing world-class artists, designers, and filmmakers. It offers specialized programs in Illustration, Graphic Design, Film, Transportation Design, and Fine Arts.
The school’s curriculum blends creativity with technical expertise, preparing students for careers in design studios, film production, and digital arts. ArtCenter’s alumni network includes some of the most influential figures in global design.
Tuition: Approximately $53,250 per year.
Location: Pasadena, CA
6. Loyola Marymount University – College of Communication and Fine Arts
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) offers a liberal arts approach to art education through its College of Communication and Fine Arts. Students can major in Studio Arts, Art History, or Theatre Arts.
LMU’s small class sizes, combined with its location near Venice Beach and Culver City, allow students to thrive in an inspiring environment surrounded by creativity. The school encourages students to use art for social change and innovation.
Tuition: About $59,788 per year.
Location: Westchester, Los Angeles, CA
7. Los Angeles Film School
If you’re interested in visual storytelling, the Los Angeles Film School is an excellent option. The school specializes in Film Production, Animation, and Digital Art, preparing students for careers in Hollywood and beyond.
Students learn from industry professionals and have access to professional-grade equipment and studios. The school’s curriculum emphasizes both the technical and creative sides of filmmaking.
Tuition: Around $35,000–$42,000 per program, depending on duration and major.
Location: Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA
8. Los Angeles City College (LACC) – Department of Visual & Media Arts
LACC provides affordable, high-quality education in the arts. Its Visual & Media Arts Department offers programs in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Photography, and Animation.
The college is ideal for students who want to start their art education before transferring to a four-year university. LACC also hosts art exhibitions and film screenings that showcase student talent.
Tuition: Around $1,196 per year (in-state) and $9,036 (out-of-state).
Location: East Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA
9. California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) – Department of Art
The Department of Art at CSULA offers comprehensive programs in Visual Arts, Animation, and Graphic Design. It’s known for combining traditional techniques with emerging technologies to equip students for modern creative industries.
Students can exhibit their work in university galleries and participate in community-based art projects across Los Angeles.
Tuition: About $7,548 per year (in-state) and $18,456 (out-of-state).
Location: East Los Angeles, CA
10. New York Film Academy (NYFA) – Los Angeles Campus
Despite its name, NYFA’s Los Angeles campus has become a major hub for film and visual arts education. It offers degree and certificate programs in Filmmaking, Photography, Graphic Design, and 3D Animation.
Located in Burbank—the heart of the entertainment industry—students gain hands-on experience working with professional filmmakers and artists.
Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $25,000 to $45,000 per year.
Location: Burbank, Los Angeles, CA
11. Mount Saint Mary’s University – Department of Art and Design
Mount Saint Mary’s University provides an intimate learning environment for students interested in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art History. The school focuses on creativity, leadership, and community engagement.
Students often participate in exhibitions, internships, and cross-disciplinary projects that integrate art with social issues.
Tuition: About $46,740 per year.
Location: Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
12. Glendale Community College – Visual and Performing Arts Division
Glendale Community College (GCC) offers an excellent stepping stone into the professional art world. Its Visual and Performing Arts Division features programs in Fine Arts, Digital Media, and Animation.
The school provides affordable education with access to experienced faculty and modern art facilities. Many students transfer to CalArts, UCLA, or USC after completing their associate degrees.
Tuition: Around $1,200 per year (in-state) and $9,600 (out-of-state).
Location: Glendale, Los Angeles County, CA
13. Woodbury University – School of Media, Culture & Design
Woodbury University offers a unique blend of creativity and business education through its School of Media, Culture & Design. Programs include Animation, Game Art & Design, and Graphic Design.
Students benefit from small classes, personal mentorship, and strong connections to LA’s entertainment and design industries.
Tuition: Approximately $47,980 per year.
Location: Burbank, Los Angeles, CA
14. Santa Monica College (SMC) – Art Department
Santa Monica College is one of California’s best community colleges, especially for aspiring artists. The Art Department offers programs in Fine Arts, Design, Photography, and Animation.
SMC’s transfer rate to top universities like UCLA and USC is among the highest in the nation. It’s perfect for students who want to start their art education affordably before moving to a bachelor’s program.
Tuition: Around $1,200 per year (in-state) and $9,600 (out-of-state).
Location: Santa Monica, CA
15. The American Film Institute (AFI) Conservatory
The AFI Conservatory is a world-class institution for advanced film and visual arts education. It’s ideal for graduate students aiming to specialize in cinematography, directing, editing, or production design.
AFI’s alumni have won numerous Academy Awards and Emmys. The conservatory provides unparalleled access to industry mentors and hands-on training with professional-grade tools.
Tuition: Approximately $63,575 per year.
Location: Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA
Why Study Art in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles offers more than just sunshine and celebrity sightings—it’s a creative powerhouse where art, culture, and technology intersect. Students gain access to world-renowned museums, design studios, galleries, and film sets.
The city’s art scene is diverse, inclusive, and constantly evolving, giving students countless opportunities for collaboration and inspiration. Whether your goal is to become a digital designer, fine artist, or filmmaker, Los Angeles offers the perfect environment to grow your talent.
Tips for Choosing the Right Art School in Los Angeles
- Identify Your Area of Focus: Choose a school that aligns with your interests—whether it’s fine arts, digital design, or animation.
- Consider Your Budget: Tuition fees vary widely. Explore scholarships, financial aid, and community colleges as affordable entry points.
- Check Facilities and Faculty: Look for modern labs, studios, and instructors with industry experience.
- Explore Internship Opportunities: Many LA schools have strong ties to the entertainment and design industries.
- Review Alumni Success: A school’s alumni network can open doors to job opportunities and collaborations.
Conclusion
Los Angeles stands out as one of the best cities in the world for art education. From elite institutions like UCLA and USC to more affordable options like Santa Monica College and LACC, there’s a school for every type of artist and every budget.
Whether you dream of painting in a downtown gallery, designing for Hollywood, or creating the next big animation hit, the opportunities are endless in LA’s vibrant creative landscape.