Top 15 Art Schools In Maryland And Fees (2025)
Maryland, known for its rich blend of history, culture, and innovation, is home to some of the best art schools in the Mid-Atlantic region. From fine arts to digital media, these institutions offer a variety of programs for creative students aspiring to pursue careers in painting, sculpture, design, animation, photography, and more. In this post, we explore the top 15 art schools in Maryland, including their tuition fees, program offerings, and what makes each one stand out.
Top 15 Art Schools In Maryland And Fees
1. Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) – Baltimore
Tuition: Approximately $54,550 per year
MICA is one of the most prestigious art and design schools in the United States. Founded in 1826, it has a long tradition of nurturing visionary artists and creative leaders. The college offers over 30 programs including Painting, Illustration, Graphic Design, Animation, Game Design, Photography, and Art Education.
MICA’s vibrant campus in Baltimore’s Station North Arts District provides students access to a thriving creative community, exhibitions, and internship opportunities. Its alumni have gone on to work for major studios, design firms, and museums around the world. With a strong focus on innovation, professional development, and entrepreneurship, MICA stands as Maryland’s leading art institution.
2. Towson University – Department of Art + Design, Art History, Art Education
Tuition: In-state $11,646, Out-of-state $28,674 per year
Towson University offers a comprehensive range of visual arts programs that combine creativity with technical skill. Students can major in areas such as Sculpture, Graphic Design, Photography, Digital Art, and Illustration.
The department encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and provides access to cutting-edge studios, print labs, and digital design facilities. Towson’s Art Education program is also well-regarded for preparing future art teachers. Located just outside Baltimore, the university provides a balanced mix of urban exposure and campus serenity — ideal for nurturing artistic growth.
3. University of Maryland, College Park – Department of Art
Tuition: In-state $11,505, Out-of-state $39,469 per year
The University of Maryland’s Department of Art offers strong undergraduate and graduate programs in Studio Art, Art History, and Digital Media. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse mediums — from painting and ceramics to 3D modeling and video installation.
The university’s proximity to Washington, D.C. gives students access to world-renowned art galleries and internship opportunities at museums like the Smithsonian. UMD’s art department also promotes critical thinking and research-based practice, making it perfect for students who want a well-rounded education that merges creativity and scholarship.
4. Salisbury University – Fulton School of Liberal Arts
Tuition: In-state $10,316, Out-of-state $20,458 per year
Salisbury University’s Art Department offers programs in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and New Media. The school emphasizes creativity, community engagement, and professional readiness. Students can display their work in the university’s art galleries and participate in annual art shows that attract local audiences.
The campus is located near Maryland’s Eastern Shore, offering scenic inspiration for artists. Salisbury also has a supportive faculty dedicated to mentoring students, making it an excellent option for those seeking personalized art education in a mid-sized university setting.
5. Frostburg State University – Department of Visual Arts
Tuition: In-state $9,420, Out-of-state $25,890 per year
Frostburg State University provides a dynamic art curriculum focused on both traditional and digital practices. Students can study Graphic Design, Painting, Sculpture, Ceramics, and Photography. The program encourages creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
Small class sizes ensure individualized attention, and the university’s scenic Appalachian location provides a tranquil environment for inspiration. Frostburg’s graduates have successfully transitioned into careers in design firms, art education, and freelance art practice.
6. Morgan State University – Fine and Performing Arts Department
Tuition: In-state $8,008, Out-of-state $18,480 per year
Morgan State University, a historically black university in Baltimore, offers a strong Fine Arts program with concentrations in Studio Art and Art History. The curriculum encourages cultural exploration, creativity, and critical analysis.
Students benefit from access to Baltimore’s thriving art scene and opportunities to exhibit work in university galleries. Morgan’s inclusive environment and rich heritage make it an ideal place for students looking to express their artistic identity while receiving a solid education.
7. Hood College – Department of Art and Archaeology (Frederick)
Tuition: Approximately $46,700 per year
Hood College combines liberal arts education with hands-on creative training. The Department of Art and Archaeology offers majors in Studio Art, Photography, Art History, and Graphic Design.
Located in Frederick, Maryland, the college’s small class sizes foster close mentorship and artistic development. Hood College also features exhibitions, internship programs, and study abroad opportunities, making it perfect for students looking for both local and global artistic experiences.
8. Stevenson University – School of Design
Tuition: Approximately $39,200 per year
Stevenson University offers career-focused programs in Visual Communication Design, Film & Moving Image, and Fashion Design. The School of Design emphasizes professional development, technology, and creativity.
Students work on real-world projects with industry partners and gain practical experience through internships. The university’s modern design studios and multimedia labs make it a top choice for students pursuing design-oriented art degrees in Maryland.
9. University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) – Department of Visual Arts
Tuition: In-state $12,606, Out-of-state $29,370 per year
UMBC’s Visual Arts Department is known for its innovative programs that bridge art and technology. Students can major in Animation, Cinematic Arts, Photography, Graphic Design, and Art History.
The curriculum encourages experimentation and interdisciplinary collaboration. UMBC is especially renowned for its programs in digital media and animation, offering access to advanced equipment and faculty with real-world industry experience.
10. Notre Dame of Maryland University – Art Department
Tuition: Approximately $39,685 per year
Notre Dame of Maryland University offers a nurturing environment for creative students. The Art Department features majors in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Therapy.
Located in Baltimore, the university’s art program emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and community service. The small class sizes ensure that students receive personalized feedback from faculty members, helping them refine their artistic voice and professional portfolio.
11. Anne Arundel Community College – Visual Arts and Humanities Department
Tuition: In-state $4,190, Out-of-state $11,560 per year
Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) provides affordable and high-quality art education. The Visual Arts program includes Graphic Design, Photography, Fine Arts, and Media Production.
Students at AACC have access to state-of-the-art studios and can transfer to top four-year universities after completing their associate degree. The program is ideal for students seeking foundational skills before pursuing a bachelor’s degree or entering the creative workforce.
12. Montgomery College – Visual, Performing, and Media Arts Department
Tuition: In-state $5,604, Out-of-state $10,980 per year
Montgomery College offers robust art programs at its Rockville, Germantown, and Takoma Park campuses. Courses cover Drawing, Painting, Photography, Graphic Design, and 3D Animation.
The college’s focus on hands-on learning, professional readiness, and transfer pathways to top universities make it an excellent choice for aspiring artists seeking an affordable start to their creative journey.
13. Washington College – Department of Art + Art History (Chestertown)
Tuition: Approximately $54,190 per year
Washington College offers a liberal arts approach to visual studies, combining art history with studio practice. Students explore painting, sculpture, photography, and digital design.
Located in the picturesque town of Chestertown, the college provides a quiet and inspiring setting for artistic development. The program’s small size allows for individualized instruction and mentorship, preparing students for graduate studies or creative careers.
14. Carroll Community College – Visual Arts Program
Tuition: In-state $4,932, Out-of-state $9,396 per year
Carroll Community College offers a well-rounded Visual Arts program that focuses on foundational art skills and portfolio development. Courses include Drawing, Design, Ceramics, and Digital Illustration.
The program prepares students for transfer to universities or immediate employment in creative fields. Its supportive environment and affordable tuition make Carroll a great starting point for budding artists in Maryland.
15. Bowie State University – Department of Fine and Performing Arts
Tuition: In-state $8,558, Out-of-state $19,834 per year
Bowie State University provides a culturally rich environment for artistic growth. The Fine Arts Department offers programs in Studio Art, Digital Media Arts, and Visual Communication.
Students learn to express their creativity while developing technical and professional skills. Bowie’s location near Washington, D.C. gives students access to exhibitions, internships, and artistic collaborations. The university’s commitment to diversity and innovation makes it one of the top art schools in Maryland.
Why Study Art in Maryland?
Maryland’s art education landscape is incredibly diverse, offering opportunities for every type of creative mind. Whether you’re drawn to fine arts, digital design, or animation, the state’s proximity to cultural hubs like Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia ensures plenty of exposure to galleries, exhibitions, and creative industries.
Additionally, Maryland art schools focus on blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology — ensuring graduates are prepared for the evolving global art market.
Tips for Choosing the Right Art School in Maryland
- Define Your Goals: Decide whether you want to focus on fine arts, digital media, design, or education.
- Compare Costs: Tuition varies widely from community colleges to private institutions.
- Consider Location: Urban schools offer more networking opportunities, while smaller campuses provide more personal attention.
- Review Faculty and Facilities: Look for schools with experienced professors and well-equipped studios.
- Visit Campuses: Attend open houses to get a feel for the school culture and creative environment.
Conclusion
Maryland stands out as a thriving state for art education, balancing creativity, technology, and cultural diversity. From elite institutions like MICA and UMBC to affordable options like Montgomery College and AACC, students can find programs that match their ambitions and budget.
Whether your dream is to become a professional artist, designer, or educator, these top 15 art schools in Maryland offer the ideal foundation to turn your passion into a lifelong career.