Top 10 Art Schools In Montana And Fees (2025)

Montana, often known for its breathtaking landscapes and rugged natural beauty, is also home to a growing community of artists, designers, and creative thinkers. From painting and sculpture to digital media and photography, the state offers a range of opportunities for aspiring artists to hone their skills and pursue fulfilling careers in the creative industries.

Whether you dream of becoming a fine artist, graphic designer, photographer, or art educator, Montana’s art schools provide the ideal environment to nurture your talent. Below, we explore the top 10 art schools in Montana, including their program offerings, fees, facilities, and career opportunities after graduation.

Top 10 Art Schools In Montana And Fees

1. Montana State University – School of Art (Bozeman)

Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman is widely recognized as one of the best art schools in the state. The School of Art under the College of Arts & Architecture offers a variety of programs, including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education, as well as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA).

Students at MSU benefit from modern facilities, including digital labs, printmaking studios, and spacious painting rooms. The program emphasizes both technical mastery and conceptual development, preparing students for professional art careers or graduate study.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: Around $8,000 – $9,000 per year
• Out-of-State: Around $29,000 – $31,000 per year

Notable Features:

• Access to the Helen E. Copeland Gallery for exhibitions
• Opportunities for art internships in Bozeman’s thriving creative community
• Strong mentorship from experienced faculty members

2. University of Montana – School of Visual and Media Arts (Missoula)

The University of Montana (UM) offers one of the most comprehensive art programs in the state. The School of Visual and Media Arts provides degrees in Art History, Media Arts, Studio Art, and Art Education. The curriculum encourages experimentation, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Students can choose from concentrations such as ceramics, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital design. The campus also hosts numerous art exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations with Missoula’s vibrant art scene.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: Approximately $8,500 per year
• Out-of-State: Approximately $30,000 per year

Highlights:

• Home to the Gallery of Visual Arts and the Matrix Press
• Frequent artist-in-residence programs and visiting artist lectures
• Strong media arts and digital design specialization

3. Rocky Mountain College (Billings)

Rocky Mountain College offers a personalized liberal arts education with an emphasis on creative expression. The Visual Arts Department provides degrees in Studio Art and Art Education, with options to specialize in drawing, painting, and sculpture.

With small class sizes, students receive individual mentorship and access to professional-grade studios. The college encourages interdisciplinary learning—allowing students to combine art with areas like business or communication.

Tuition and Fees:

• Around $33,000 per year (flat-rate tuition)

Why Choose RMC:

• Low student-to-faculty ratio
• Art internships and exhibition opportunities in downtown Billings
• Annual Student Art Exhibition showcasing outstanding work

4. Montana State University Billings – Department of Art

Montana State University Billings (MSUB) offers both Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees in Art. The program balances studio practice with art history and theory, preparing students for careers in both traditional and modern art sectors.

MSUB students have access to dedicated painting, ceramics, and graphic design studios. The school’s partnership with the local art community gives students valuable exposure to real-world artistic environments.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: Around $7,800 per year
• Out-of-State: Around $21,000 per year

Program Strengths:

• Access to the Northcutt Steele Gallery for exhibitions
• Comprehensive digital design curriculum
• Opportunities for teaching assistantships and research projects

5. Carroll College (Helena)

Carroll College offers a strong Art Major within its liberal arts framework. Students can explore studio art, graphic design, and art history while developing their creative voice. The college emphasizes visual literacy, cultural awareness, and technical skill development.

Art students at Carroll enjoy personalized instruction, small classes, and the opportunity to exhibit their work both on campus and in Helena’s growing art community.

Tuition and Fees:

• Approximately $40,000 per year

Notable Features:

• Integration of fine art and design principles
• Strong internship connections with local museums and galleries
• Encourages portfolio development for graduate school or creative careers

6. Flathead Valley Community College (Kalispell)

Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) offers an affordable way to begin your art education. Students can earn an Associate of Arts in Art, which provides foundational training in design, drawing, painting, and ceramics. Graduates often transfer to four-year universities for advanced degrees.

The campus features well-equipped art studios and hosts community exhibitions, allowing students to showcase their work publicly.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-District: Around $4,000 per year
• Out-of-District: Around $8,000 per year

Why Choose FVCC:

• Affordable tuition for aspiring artists
• Strong transfer pathway to Montana State University and University of Montana
• Supportive learning environment and small classes

7. Great Falls College – Montana State University (Great Falls)

Great Falls College offers a Graphic Design and Visual Communications program designed for students interested in digital media, illustration, and design. The coursework includes design software training, typography, and branding principles.

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in advertising, media production, and marketing. The college’s strong industry connections help students build portfolios and gain practical experience.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: Around $4,500 per year
• Out-of-State: Around $8,500 per year

Program Advantages:

• Focus on digital and visual communication skills
• Industry-relevant curriculum and technology access
• Flexible associate programs leading to four-year degrees

8. Montana Western – Department of Fine Arts (Dillon)

The University of Montana Western offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Visual Arts. The department’s “Experience One” approach ensures students work intensively on one subject at a time, providing immersive artistic learning.

Students explore media such as painting, ceramics, and printmaking while developing a strong conceptual and technical foundation. The college’s rural setting provides inspiration and solitude for creative expression.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: Around $8,200 per year
• Out-of-State: Around $24,000 per year

Highlights:

• Hands-on, immersive art education model
• Exhibitions in the Fine Arts Gallery
• Supportive faculty and mentorship programs

9. Dawson Community College (Glendive)

Dawson Community College provides a Fine Arts Associate Degree for students looking to explore drawing, design, photography, and painting. This program focuses on foundational studio skills and visual problem-solving, ideal for those planning to transfer to four-year institutions.

DCC students enjoy low tuition costs, individualized instruction, and the opportunity to participate in student art exhibitions.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: About $3,800 per year
• Out-of-State: About $8,000 per year

Program Highlights:

• Affordable entry point to higher art education
• Dedicated faculty with professional art experience
• Excellent pathway to universities like MSU and UM

10. Helena College – University of Montana (Helena)

Helena College, a branch of the University of Montana, offers foundational Art and Design courses that lead to an Associate of Arts degree. The program emphasizes creativity, design principles, and technical skills in various art media.

This college is an excellent starting point for students who want to transfer into a bachelor’s program or develop professional art portfolios for future opportunities.

Tuition and Fees:

• In-State: Around $4,000 per year
• Out-of-State: Around $9,000 per year

Why Choose Helena College:

• Flexible and affordable programs
• Strong academic support and transfer agreements
• Excellent student-to-teacher ratio

Why Study Art in Montana?

Montana’s art community is vibrant and closely tied to its natural environment. From the lively art walks of Missoula and Bozeman to the serene landscapes that inspire plein-air painters, the state offers diverse creative opportunities.

Studying art in Montana means access to:

• Supportive communities that value creativity and individuality
• Affordable tuition compared to larger metropolitan art schools
• Professional development through exhibitions, internships, and networking events

Career Opportunities for Art Graduates in Montana

Graduates from Montana’s art schools pursue careers in:

• Fine Arts (painting, sculpture, ceramics)
• Graphic and Web Design
• Photography and Digital Media
• Art Education
• Museum and Gallery Curation
• Animation and Game Design
• Art Therapy and Community Arts

With growing opportunities in both traditional and digital media, Montana’s art graduates find work locally, nationally, and internationally.

Conclusion

Montana offers aspiring artists a perfect blend of inspiration, affordability, and quality education. Whether you’re drawn to the fine arts, graphic design, or digital media, each of the schools listed above provides unique opportunities to develop your creative skills and pursue your passion.

When selecting the right art school, consider factors such as tuition costs, location, program strengths, and faculty expertise. With dedication and the right environment, your artistic journey in Montana can lead to a rewarding and impactful career.