Top 15 Art Schools In New England And Fees (2025)
New England—comprising Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont—is known for its rich artistic heritage and historic colleges. The region offers some of the best art schools in the United States, where creativity meets innovation. From fine arts and design to animation and digital media, students can find a range of programs suited to their artistic goals.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in New England and provide insights on their fees, programs, and campus experiences.
Top 15 Art Schools In New England And Fees
1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Providence, Rhode Island
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of the most prestigious art schools in the world. Known for its rigorous training, creative freedom, and influential alumni, RISD offers programs in painting, architecture, graphic design, film, and sculpture. Students have access to world-class studios and collaboration opportunities with nearby Brown University.
Average Tuition: Around $61,000 per year
Notable Programs: Illustration, Industrial Design, Film/Animation/Video, Architecture
Why Choose RISD: Exceptional reputation, professional preparation, and high post-graduate success rates.
2. Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) – Boston, Massachusetts
MassArt is a public institution offering affordable and high-quality art education. Founded in 1873, it’s the first publicly funded art and design college in the U.S. The school emphasizes experimentation and innovation in areas like ceramics, photography, film, and design.
Average Tuition: About $15,000 (in-state) and $35,000 (out-of-state) per year
Notable Programs: Animation, Fashion Design, Studio for Interrelated Media
Why Choose MassArt: Accessible tuition, vibrant Boston arts scene, and strong portfolio development opportunities.
3. Yale University School of Art – New Haven, Connecticut
The Yale School of Art is an Ivy League powerhouse offering MFA programs in painting, sculpture, and photography. It’s globally respected for fostering critical thinking and conceptual depth in visual art. Admission is extremely competitive, focusing on portfolio excellence.
Average Tuition: Around $46,000 per year
Notable Programs: Painting/Printmaking, Graphic Design, Photography, Sculpture
Why Choose Yale: Renowned faculty, strong professional network, and prestige in contemporary art circles.
4. School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University (SMFA) – Boston, Massachusetts
SMFA at Tufts blends academic rigor with artistic freedom. Students can craft individualized study paths, taking courses across both the museum school and Tufts University. With the Museum of Fine Arts next door, students are immersed in creativity daily.
Average Tuition: About $68,000 per year
Notable Programs: Fine Arts, Film and Animation, Studio Art
Why Choose SMFA: Museum access, interdisciplinary flexibility, and strong art community.
5. University of Hartford – Hartford Art School (HAS), Connecticut
The Hartford Art School at the University of Hartford provides a blend of technical training and liberal arts education. Students gain exposure to real-world projects, gallery shows, and internships.
Average Tuition: Around $46,000 per year
Notable Programs: Illustration, Photography, Visual Communication Design
Why Choose HAS: Personalized instruction, portfolio-driven learning, and internship pathways.
6. New Hampshire Institute of Art (Now NHIA at New England College) – Manchester, New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Institute of Art (NHIA), now integrated into New England College, continues to deliver top-tier art programs. The school emphasizes small classes, personal mentorship, and modern art practices.
Average Tuition: Around $41,000 per year
Notable Programs: Fine Arts, Photography, Graphic Design, Illustration
Why Choose NHIA: Intimate studio environment, skilled faculty, and creative freedom.
7. Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) – Portland, Maine
Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant arts district, Maine College of Art & Design offers a strong community and experiential learning. Students engage with contemporary design and traditional fine arts through practical workshops and internships.
Average Tuition: Around $44,000 per year
Notable Programs: Printmaking, Illustration, Textile and Fashion Design
Why Choose MECA&D: Supportive creative community and strong professional preparation.
8. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth – College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)
The CVPA at UMass Dartmouth offers affordable education with the resources of a large public university. Students have access to advanced technology and specialized studios for digital media and traditional arts.
Average Tuition: About $16,000 (in-state) and $31,000 (out-of-state) per year
Notable Programs: Graphic Design, Ceramics, Digital Media, Painting
Why Choose CVPA: Great value, diverse programs, and solid career support.
9. University of Massachusetts Amherst – Department of Art
UMass Amherst’s Department of Art provides a contemporary art curriculum emphasizing experimentation, community projects, and artistic research. The program is ideal for students seeking an interdisciplinary education in a dynamic campus setting.
Average Tuition: Around $17,000 (in-state) and $39,000 (out-of-state) per year
Notable Programs: Studio Art, Art Education, Digital Media
Why Choose UMass Amherst: Affordable tuition and integration with liberal arts studies.
10. Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) – Montpelier, Vermont
VCFA focuses on low-residency graduate programs that allow artists to balance creative work with academic study. It attracts professional artists seeking deeper conceptual and theoretical engagement.
Average Tuition: About $29,000 per year
Notable Programs: Visual Art MFA, Graphic Design MFA
Why Choose VCFA: Flexibility, creative mentorship, and professional artist community.
11. Boston University – College of Fine Arts (CFA)
Boston University’s College of Fine Arts is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to art, music, and theater. The visual arts division emphasizes classical training and modern media techniques, preparing students for creative careers.
Average Tuition: Around $65,000 per year
Notable Programs: Painting, Sculpture, Art Education
Why Choose BU CFA: Ivy-level academic standards and exposure to Boston’s creative network.
12. Lesley University College of Art and Design (LUCAD) – Cambridge, Massachusetts
Located in the creative hub of Cambridge, LUCAD offers programs focused on design thinking and digital media. Students benefit from proximity to Harvard and MIT, blending art and innovation seamlessly.
Average Tuition: About $47,000 per year
Notable Programs: Animation, Illustration, Graphic Design, Photography
Why Choose LUCAD: Strong creative technology integration and career-driven curriculum.
13. University of Connecticut – Department of Art and Art History
The UConn Department of Art and Art History offers BFA and MFA programs emphasizing research, design, and media experimentation. It provides a balanced art education at one of the region’s leading public universities.
Average Tuition: Around $18,000 (in-state) and $42,000 (out-of-state) per year
Notable Programs: Digital Media, Painting, Illustration, Printmaking
Why Choose UConn: Strong academic foundation and affordable cost.
14. University of Maine – School of Performing Arts and Art
The University of Maine’s Art Department offers a solid foundation in both traditional and digital art disciplines. Students gain real-world exposure through campus exhibitions and art residencies.
Average Tuition: About $12,000 (in-state) and $35,000 (out-of-state) per year
Notable Programs: Studio Art, New Media, Sculpture
Why Choose UMaine: Cost-effective education and focus on artistic versatility.
15. Endicott College – School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA) – Beverly, Massachusetts
Endicott College’s SVPA combines fine arts education with hands-on internships, giving students professional exposure early in their studies. Located near Boston, it offers excellent opportunities for networking and showcasing work.
Average Tuition: Around $39,000 per year
Notable Programs: Interior Design, Graphic Design, Studio Art
Why Choose Endicott: Real-world learning, close faculty guidance, and vibrant student community.
Why Study Art in New England?
New England offers a perfect mix of artistic tradition and modern innovation. With easy access to galleries, museums, and creative industries, art students enjoy unmatched exposure. Cities like Boston and Providence provide cultural diversity and creative energy that inspire lifelong artistic growth.
Tips for Choosing the Right Art School in New England
- Review your creative goals – Choose a school that aligns with your career path, whether in fine arts, design, or digital media.
- Evaluate costs and scholarships – Many art schools offer merit-based aid; don’t let tuition discourage you.
- Visit campuses – Experience the facilities and environment before committing.
- Check alumni outcomes – A strong alumni network often signals industry relevance.
- Consider location – Urban schools provide networking opportunities, while smaller towns offer focused studio environments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right art school in New England can shape your creative journey for years to come. Whether you aim for the prestige of RISD, the affordability of MassArt, or the innovation of LUCAD, the region provides every opportunity to thrive as an artist. With the right combination of passion, skill, and guidance, your future in the arts can begin right here in New England.