Top 15 Art Schools In Miami And Fees (2025)
Miami is one of America’s most dynamic cultural cities—where art, design, and creativity are part of daily life. From its colorful Art Deco buildings to the globally renowned Art Basel fair, Miami’s vibrant environment makes it a perfect place for aspiring artists and designers to hone their craft. Whether you’re into fine arts, digital media, fashion, or visual communication, Miami offers world-class art schools with diverse programs and opportunities.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in Miami, their unique features, and the estimated tuition fees to help you choose the right path for your artistic journey.
Top 15 Art Schools In Miami And Fees
1. Miami International University of Art & Design
The Miami International University of Art & Design (MIUAD) is one of the most recognized art institutions in South Florida. It offers degrees in graphic design, interior design, animation, fashion design, and visual arts. The university focuses on creativity, hands-on learning, and industry-relevant training. Students get exposure to Miami’s art scene through internships, exhibitions, and collaborations with local brands.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $19,260
Location: 1501 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL
MIUAD also offers scholarships for outstanding students and international applicants, making it a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive art education in a multicultural city.
2. New World School of the Arts
Affiliated with Miami Dade College, the New World School of the Arts (NWSA) offers top-tier programs in visual arts, dance, theater, and music. Its Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program emphasizes individual artistic development, creativity, and professional discipline.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $3,000 (Florida residents), $12,000 (non-residents)
Location: 25 NE 2nd Street, Miami, FL
Students benefit from strong mentorship from experienced artists and participate in numerous exhibitions and live performances. NWSA graduates often advance to prestigious art schools or successful creative careers.
3. University of Miami – Department of Art and Art History
The University of Miami offers a robust art program combining fine arts, digital design, and art history. The Department of Art and Art History provides BFA and MFA degrees with concentrations in sculpture, painting, photography, and graphic design.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $59,000
Location: Coral Gables, FL
Students enjoy access to modern studios, galleries, and resources that foster professional growth. The program’s integration of art and technology prepares graduates for both creative and commercial industries.
4. Florida International University – College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA)
FIU’s CARTA is known for its interdisciplinary approach that merges design, fine arts, and media studies. Students can pursue degrees in visual arts, digital media, and design through world-class instruction and studio-based learning.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $6,565 (in-state), $18,963 (out-of-state)
Location: 11200 SW 8th St, Miami, FL
The school’s emphasis on innovation and collaboration connects students with Miami’s thriving design and cultural industries, preparing them for global success.
5. Design and Architecture Senior High (DASH)
For high school students passionate about art and design, Design and Architecture Senior High (DASH) stands out as one of the best pre-college art schools in the U.S. It focuses on industrial design, architecture, fashion design, and visual communication.
Tuition: Public Magnet School (Free for residents)
Location: 4001 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL
DASH graduates are highly sought after by top universities like Pratt Institute and Parsons, and many receive national design awards. It’s ideal for young creatives seeking a strong foundation before pursuing higher art education.
6. The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale (Miami Area)
Though based slightly outside Miami, the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale has long been a popular choice for South Florida students. It offers programs in visual arts, media production, fashion design, and culinary arts, blending creativity with business skills.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $19,000
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Students gain practical experience through exhibitions, real-world projects, and collaborations with local industries, making this institute a versatile option for art-minded learners.
7. Miami Dade College – School of Entertainment & Design Technology
Miami Dade College (MDC) offers affordable and comprehensive programs in film, graphic design, animation, and photography through its School of Entertainment & Design Technology (SEDT).
Estimated Annual Tuition: $3,000 (in-state), $9,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Wolfson Campus, Miami, FL
MDC focuses on career-oriented training and partnerships with entertainment and media companies, helping students build strong portfolios and professional networks.
8. Barry University – Department of Fine Arts
Located in North Miami, Barry University offers BA and BFA degrees in fine arts, graphic design, and photography. The program emphasizes creativity, ethics, and community engagement.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $33,000
Location: 11300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami Shores, FL
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and access to Miami’s art scene. The university also provides scholarships for outstanding artistic talent.
9. Academy of Arts and Minds
The Academy of Arts and Minds (AAM) is a charter high school in Coconut Grove dedicated to visual and performing arts. It provides foundational courses in digital design, drawing, film production, and performing arts.
Tuition: Public Charter School (Free)
Location: 3138 Commodore Plaza, Miami, FL
AAM nurtures creativity in young artists, helping them transition smoothly into higher education or early creative careers. Its hands-on learning model encourages innovation and expression.
10. Florida National University – Graphic Arts Program
Florida National University (FNU) offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Arts, focusing on design principles, multimedia, and digital communication. The curriculum combines artistic training with technological skills relevant to modern industries.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $14,888
Location: Hialeah, FL
Students learn to use cutting-edge software tools and develop strong visual storytelling abilities, preparing them for roles in advertising, publishing, and media design.
11. Miami Media School
The Miami Media School is ideal for students interested in blending visual creativity with media and production. Programs include digital design, photography, video editing, and broadcast media.
Estimated Tuition: $15,000 per program
Location: 901 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL
This school emphasizes real-world learning—students gain practical skills through internships and live studio projects. It’s a great option for those wanting to combine art, storytelling, and technology.
12. Instituto Marangoni Miami
Instituto Marangoni is an elite international school specializing in fashion design, styling, and luxury brand management. With roots in Milan, London, and Paris, its Miami campus attracts creative minds from across the world.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $25,000–$35,000
Location: 3700 NE 2nd Ave, Miami Design District
Students benefit from global exposure, top-tier instructors, and connections to major fashion houses. It’s perfect for aspiring fashion designers who want to study in Miami’s upscale creative hub.
13. The Bakehouse Art Complex
Although not a traditional degree-granting school, the Bakehouse Art Complex offers residency programs, art workshops, and studio spaces for emerging artists. It’s ideal for independent learners or professionals looking to refine their skills.
Program Fees: Vary by workshop/residency ($500–$2,000)
Location: 561 NW 32nd St, Miami, FL
Bakehouse provides mentorship and exposure opportunities, connecting participants with Miami’s thriving art community and international networks.
14. Oolite Arts (Formerly ArtCenter/South Florida)
Oolite Arts is one of Miami’s most respected creative institutions, offering art classes, fellowships, and mentorship programs. It supports visual artists across disciplines including painting, sculpture, video, and photography.
Program Fees: Vary ($300–$1,500 per course/workshop)
Location: 924 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL
Oolite Arts focuses on professional development, offering artists a chance to exhibit their work and connect with curators and art collectors.
15. Frost School of Music – University of Miami
Although primarily a music school, the Frost School of Music integrates visual arts and multimedia through its composition and production programs. Students explore sound design, performance art, and visual collaboration.
Estimated Annual Tuition: $59,000
Location: Coral Gables, FL
This interdisciplinary approach makes Frost an excellent choice for creatives interested in fusing visual and auditory arts in innovative ways.
Why Study Art in Miami?
Miami is a global art capital, home to the annual Art Basel Miami Beach, numerous galleries, and artist collectives. The city’s diversity fosters creative experimentation and international collaboration. Students studying art in Miami gain exposure to cultural fusion, networking opportunities, and vibrant local communities that support emerging talent.
Moreover, Miami’s art institutions emphasize both creative freedom and career preparation, helping graduates thrive in design, media, entertainment, and entrepreneurship.
Tips for Choosing the Right Art School in Miami
- Define Your Focus Area – Whether you’re drawn to fine arts, digital design, or fashion, pick a school that specializes in your field.
- Compare Tuition and Scholarships – Miami offers both affordable public programs and high-end private art academies.
- Check Portfolio Requirements – Most art schools require a strong creative portfolio for admission.
- Consider Location and Facilities – Choose a campus close to Miami’s art districts or studios for better exposure.
- Seek Networking Opportunities – Schools that collaborate with galleries, festivals, and design firms can boost your career prospects.
Conclusion
Miami’s art schools offer far more than classroom learning—they immerse students in a thriving global art ecosystem. Whether you dream of showcasing your paintings in Wynwood, designing for top fashion houses, or creating cutting-edge digital media, Miami’s art education scene has something to offer every creative mind.
From the affordable programs at Miami Dade College and New World School of the Arts to the elite training at Instituto Marangoni and University of Miami, each institution brings unique value to your artistic journey.
If your goal is to turn creativity into a career, studying art in Miami can be your perfect launchpad.