Top 10 Art Schools In Mississippi And Fees (2025)
Mississippi, known for its deep artistic roots in music, literature, and visual arts, offers a variety of excellent institutions where aspiring artists can develop their creative skills. From fine arts and digital design to theatre and music, these schools provide students with the resources, mentorship, and inspiration to succeed in the creative world. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 art schools in Mississippi, their programs, tuition fees, and what makes each of them unique.
Top 10 Art Schools In Mississippi And Fees
1. University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Oxford, MS
The University of Mississippi, fondly called Ole Miss, is one of the top destinations for art students in the state. The Department of Art & Art History offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art, allowing students to specialize in painting, ceramics, printmaking, graphic design, or sculpture. The university emphasizes both creative exploration and academic rigor, helping students build strong artistic portfolios while understanding the historical and cultural foundations of art.
Ole Miss also provides students with modern studios, art galleries, and digital labs for hands-on learning. The school’s Museum of Art hosts numerous exhibitions, giving students real-world exposure and networking opportunities.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state: approximately $9,300 per year
- Out-of-state: approximately $26,400 per year
Why Choose Ole Miss:
Students benefit from an environment that merges artistic innovation with Southern cultural heritage, supported by top-tier faculty and a vibrant campus community.
2. Mississippi State University – Starkville, MS
Mississippi State University (MSU) houses one of the most comprehensive art programs in the state through its Department of Art within the College of Architecture, Art, and Design. The university offers degrees in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Photography, all supported by world-class facilities and an emphasis on professional preparation.
MSU’s Graphic Design program is among the best in the South, known for blending creativity with technical expertise. The university frequently partners with art organizations and design studios to help students gain practical experience and internships.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state: about $9,500 per year
- Out-of-state: about $25,000 per year
Why Choose MSU:
Students get access to cutting-edge studios, an art gallery for student exhibitions, and a thriving creative community dedicated to professional artistry.
3. University of Southern Mississippi – Hattiesburg, MS
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offers one of the state’s most dynamic art programs through its School of Performing and Visual Arts. The program provides both BFA and BA degrees in Art & Design, with concentrations in drawing, painting, ceramics, digital media, and graphic design.
USM’s faculty members are practicing artists and scholars who encourage creative risk-taking and technical mastery. The university also provides opportunities for students to exhibit their work in public galleries and participate in art internships, festivals, and design competitions.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state: approximately $9,200 per year
- Out-of-state: approximately $11,000–$19,000 per year, depending on program load
Why Choose USM:
It offers a balance between traditional studio arts and contemporary media, preparing students for careers in both fine art and commercial design industries.
4. Delta State University – Cleveland, MS
Delta State University is home to an inspiring Department of Art that focuses on studio art, graphic design, and art education. Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta—known for its rich musical and artistic traditions—the school offers students a deeply cultural and supportive learning environment.
The BFA program emphasizes creativity and craftsmanship, providing specializations in painting, photography, ceramics, and more. The department’s Fielding Wright Art Center Gallery hosts regular exhibitions that connect students with professional artists and curators.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state: around $8,500 per year
- Out-of-state: around $12,000 per year
Why Choose Delta State:
Its small class sizes, hands-on instruction, and Delta-inspired culture create a unique artistic atmosphere where creativity flourishes.
5. Mississippi College – Clinton, MS
Mississippi College (MC), a private Christian university, integrates faith with the creative process. The Department of Art offers programs in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and Art Education, with an emphasis on technical skills and visual storytelling.
Students at MC enjoy personalized mentorship, small class sizes, and opportunities to participate in regional art competitions and exhibitions. The school’s Aven Fine Arts Building is equipped with professional studios and gallery spaces that encourage students to showcase their work publicly.
Tuition and Fees:
- Estimated tuition: $22,000 per year
- Scholarships available for merit, portfolio, and faith-based awards
Why Choose Mississippi College:
Its combination of creative exploration and Christian values makes it an ideal environment for students seeking to merge artistry with purpose.
6. Jackson State University – Jackson, MS
Jackson State University (JSU), one of the nation’s leading HBCUs, offers a vibrant Department of Art that celebrates African American art, heritage, and innovation. JSU provides programs in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education, along with minors that allow students to tailor their education.
The university’s Gallery 1 hosts exhibitions from students, alumni, and visiting artists. Its focus on cultural diversity and community engagement gives students the opportunity to connect their art with meaningful social narratives.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state: approximately $8,400 per year
- Out-of-state: approximately $9,800–$19,000 per year
Why Choose JSU:
It’s an excellent choice for students who want to explore the intersections of art, identity, and social justice within a supportive community.
7. Mississippi University for Women – Columbus, MS
Despite its name, the Mississippi University for Women (MUW) welcomes both men and women into its creative programs. The Department of Art & Design offers degrees in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Art Education, with flexible concentrations that fit diverse career paths.
Students at MUW enjoy close interaction with faculty, practical workshops, and access to the Eudora Welty Art Gallery—a venue for professional and student art exhibitions. The program places strong emphasis on digital media and design, preparing students for modern creative industries.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state: about $7,700 per year
- Out-of-state: about $10,000–$14,000 per year
Why Choose MUW:
The university’s affordable tuition, creative curriculum, and inclusive atmosphere make it a hidden gem for art education in Mississippi.
8. Belhaven University – Jackson, MS
Belhaven University stands out as one of the few Christian colleges nationally accredited in all four arts: visual art, music, theatre, and dance. Its Department of Art offers a BFA in Visual Art and a BA in Art, emphasizing craftsmanship, concept development, and faith-based artistic exploration.
Belhaven students are mentored by practicing artists who integrate Christian worldview principles with visual creativity. The campus features multiple art studios and a professional gallery that hosts regional and national exhibits.
Tuition and Fees:
- Estimated tuition: $28,000 per year
- Scholarships and need-based aid available
Why Choose Belhaven:
It offers a holistic art education that nurtures both skill and spiritual growth—perfect for students who see art as a calling, not just a career.
9. William Carey University – Hattiesburg, MS
William Carey University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art, both designed to foster creativity, discipline, and technical mastery. Students can specialize in areas such as drawing, painting, ceramics, and graphic design.
The program focuses on building strong foundations in both traditional and digital techniques, while also preparing students for careers in education, design, or studio art. The Sarah Gillespie Art Gallery frequently showcases student and faculty artwork.
Tuition and Fees:
- Tuition: approximately $14,000 per year
- Scholarships and art grants available
Why Choose William Carey:
It’s ideal for students seeking personalized attention and a faith-centered art education with hands-on studio experience.
10. Tougaloo College – Tougaloo, MS
Tougaloo College, another prominent HBCU in Mississippi, offers a well-rounded Art Program with concentrations in Studio Art, Art History, and Graphic Design. The college has a long history of supporting the arts and is home to one of the most significant collections of African American art in the region.
Tougaloo emphasizes both creative expression and cultural awareness. Students engage in studio projects, gallery exhibitions, and community-based art initiatives that connect their work with social change.
Tuition and Fees:
- Estimated tuition: $12,000 per year
- Financial aid and need-based scholarships available
Why Choose Tougaloo College:
The program’s focus on artistic excellence and social responsibility provides a meaningful path for artists who wish to use creativity as a force for good.
How to Choose the Right Art School in Mississippi
When selecting an art school, consider factors such as:
- Program focus: Do you prefer fine arts, graphic design, or art education?
- Facilities and studios: Look for schools with modern labs, exhibition spaces, and workshops.
- Faculty and mentorship: Seek programs with practicing artists and supportive instructors.
- Tuition and aid: Evaluate scholarship opportunities and cost of living.
- Community and culture: Choose an environment that aligns with your personal and artistic values.
Average Art School Tuition in Mississippi
On average, public art schools in Mississippi cost between $8,000 and $10,000 per year for in-state students, while private institutions range from $12,000 to $28,000 per year. Many schools offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, especially for students who submit strong art portfolios.
Conclusion
Mississippi’s art schools combine rich Southern creativity with academic excellence. Whether you’re drawn to fine arts, design, or education, the state offers diverse opportunities to grow as an artist and build a fulfilling career. Institutions like Ole Miss, MSU, and USM lead the way with world-class programs, while smaller colleges like Belhaven and Tougaloo provide personalized and culturally rooted learning experiences.
No matter which path you choose, studying art in Mississippi means joining a tradition that celebrates imagination, heritage, and the power of creative expression.