Top 10 Art Schools In New Hampshire And Fees (2025)
New Hampshire might be known for its beautiful landscapes and charming small towns, but it’s also home to some of the best art schools in New England. Whether you’re interested in fine arts, graphic design, photography, or multimedia, the Granite State has something to offer every aspiring artist.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top 10 art schools in New Hampshire, their unique programs, and the latest tuition and fees information to help you choose the right fit for your artistic journey.
Top 10 Art Schools In New Hampshire And Fees
1. Dartmouth College — Hanover, NH
Why It’s a Top Choice:
Dartmouth College, an Ivy League institution, is known for academic excellence and world-class facilities. The Department of Studio Art at Dartmouth offers programs that combine creativity with critical thinking, allowing students to explore drawing, sculpture, photography, digital media, and printmaking in a highly collaborative environment.
Students have access to the Hood Museum of Art, one of the oldest and most prestigious college museums in the United States, providing an unparalleled resource for art study and inspiration.
Tuition and Fees:
- Tuition: $69,207 per year
- Estimated total cost (including housing, meals, and fees): ~$94,980 per year
Financial Aid: Dartmouth offers generous financial aid packages, ensuring that most students pay significantly less than the full sticker price.
Why It Stands Out:
If you’re looking for a globally recognized degree with access to top art faculty and resources, Dartmouth remains the best art school in New Hampshire.
2. Plymouth State University — Plymouth, NH
Overview:
Plymouth State University (PSU) blends affordability, community engagement, and creativity. Its Department of Art offers undergraduate programs in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Art Education, making it a strong option for students who want practical and academic training.
The university encourages hands-on learning through exhibitions, art shows, and internship programs. Students also gain experience by participating in regional art collaborations.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state students: ~$19,316 per year (with financial aid)
- Out-of-state students: Higher, depending on residency status
Why It’s Worth Considering:
Plymouth State is perfect for students seeking an affordable, public university experience without compromising on the quality of education or studio facilities.
3. Keene State College — Keene, NH
Overview:
Keene State College is part of the University System of New Hampshire and has an outstanding reputation for its Design and Applied Arts programs. Students can pursue majors in Graphic Design, Studio Art, or Film Studies — each offering hands-on studio work and real-world projects.
Keene State emphasizes creativity and professionalism, ensuring graduates are ready to enter the workforce or pursue advanced degrees in art or design.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state tuition: $12,048 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: $24,406 per year
- Total estimated cost (including housing and meals): ~$29,288 per year
What Makes It Special:
Keene State consistently ranks as one of the best-value art schools in New England, offering strong programs with a manageable cost, especially for New Hampshire residents.
4. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) — Manchester, NH
Overview:
SNHU has become one of the most innovative universities in the U.S., offering both on-campus and online programs in art and design. The university’s Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts program prepares students for careers in digital design, marketing, and multimedia production.
SNHU’s art courses blend technology with creativity, focusing on real-world applications of design and media. The flexibility of its online options makes it ideal for working professionals or international students.
Tuition and Fees:
- Undergraduate programs: ~$28,080 total (estimated for art programs)
- MFA or graduate tuition: ~$17,326 per year
Why It Stands Out:
SNHU is a private university that focuses on affordability and flexibility, offering top-quality art and design programs both on-campus and online.
5. New England College — Henniker, NH
Overview:
New England College (NEC) is a private liberal arts institution that values creativity, individuality, and innovation. Its Fine Arts and Art Education programs provide students with in-depth studio experience and exposure to modern art trends.
NEC’s small class sizes ensure personalized instruction, while scholarships and grants make tuition surprisingly affordable.
Tuition and Fees:
- Base tuition: ~$41,584 per year
- Average net cost after scholarships and aid: ~$12,500 per year
Why It’s Worth It:
New England College offers an intimate creative environment ideal for artists who want individual attention and access to modern art studios.
6. University of New Hampshire (Main Campus) — Durham, NH
Overview:
The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is the state’s flagship public university and home to a highly respected Department of Art and Art History. Students can choose from concentrations such as Studio Art, Art History, or Design and Illustration.
UNH’s art programs encourage critical thinking and creativity through a combination of classroom instruction and real-world projects.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state students: ~$17,747 per year (average net cost)
- Out-of-state students: Higher, depending on residency
What Makes It Stand Out:
UNH combines the resources of a large public university with the atmosphere of a creative arts college, making it ideal for students seeking balance between affordability and opportunity.
7. Colby–Sawyer College — New London, NH
Overview:
Colby–Sawyer College offers a vibrant arts community within a small liberal arts college environment. Its Fine and Studio Arts program focuses on hands-on learning, portfolio development, and professional preparation for careers in design, photography, and art education.
Students benefit from close mentorship and opportunities to showcase their work in the campus art gallery.
Tuition and Fees:
- Average net cost: ~$23,145 per year for families with income below $30,000
Why Choose Colby–Sawyer:
The college offers a personalized education that blends creativity, skill-building, and career preparation — perfect for students who thrive in small, supportive communities.
8. New Hampshire Institute of Art — Manchester, NH
Overview:
The New Hampshire Institute of Art (NHIA) has long been recognized as a premier art school specializing in Fine Arts, Photography, and Graphic Design. Although it has undergone structural changes, its legacy in New Hampshire’s art scene remains influential.
NHIA graduates have gone on to work in major art and design industries across the country, and the school’s alumni network continues to thrive in the arts community.
Tuition and Fees :
- Tuition: ~$21,450 per year (previous estimate)
What to Know:
Prospective students should confirm the institute’s current status, as programs may now be part of SNHU’s art and design offerings.
9. Arts Academy of New Hampshire — Salem, NH
Overview:
The Arts Academy of New Hampshire is a charter high school that offers a specialized curriculum for young artists in grades 9–12. It provides a solid foundation in visual arts, dance, music, and theater — ideal for students preparing to enter higher art institutions.
The academy nurtures creativity, leadership, and collaboration while preparing students for college-level art programs.
Tuition and Fees:
- NH residents: Free
- Out-of-state students: $9,363.60 per year
Why It’s Important:
Though it’s not a college, the Arts Academy is a perfect pre-college option for students seeking early exposure to the arts in a professional environment.
10. Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH)
Overview:
The CCSNH offers affordable associate degree programs in art and design at several campuses across the state. It’s ideal for students who want to start their education at a lower cost and later transfer to a four-year institution.
Programs cover fundamentals in drawing, digital design, and art history — giving students a strong foundation for advanced study.
Tuition and Fees:
- In-state tuition: $230 per credit hour
- Out-of-state tuition: $505 per credit hour
Why Choose CCSNH:
This option provides the most affordable pathway into art education in New Hampshire and is excellent for students balancing cost, flexibility, and ambition.
Summary Table: Top 10 Art Schools in New Hampshire
| Rank | School Name | Approx. Annual Tuition / Net Cost | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dartmouth College | ~$94,980 (total cost) | Private / Ivy League |
| 2 | Plymouth State University | ~$19,316 | Public |
| 3 | Keene State College | ~$29,288 total (in-state) | Public |
| 4 | Southern New Hampshire University | ~$28,080 | Private |
| 5 | New England College | ~$12,500 (after aid) | Private |
| 6 | University of New Hampshire | ~$17,747 | Public |
| 7 | Colby–Sawyer College | ~$23,145 | Private |
| 8 | New Hampshire Institute of Art | ~$21,450 (historical) | Private |
| 9 | Arts Academy of NH | Free (NH residents) | Charter High School |
| 10 | Community College System of NH | $230/credit (in-state) | Public / 2-Year |
How to Choose the Right Art School in New Hampshire
When choosing the perfect art school, consider these key factors:
- Program Focus:
Are you more interested in fine arts, design, or multimedia? Each school specializes in different areas — from traditional studio art at Dartmouth to digital design at SNHU. - Facilities and Equipment:
Ensure the school provides well-equipped art studios, digital labs, and exhibition spaces. - Portfolio Requirements:
Most art programs require a portfolio showcasing your best work. Start building it early to increase your chances of admission. - Financial Aid and Scholarships:
Compare the real “net cost” after aid — many private colleges offer significant scholarships that make them more affordable than they appear. - Career Opportunities:
Look for schools with strong internship placements, alumni networks, and access to galleries or creative industries.
Conclusion
New Hampshire offers a rich blend of art schools that cater to every type of student — from Ivy League excellence at Dartmouth College to the accessible, hands-on training at Keene State and Plymouth State.
If you’re passionate about art and ready to invest in your creative future, these schools provide exceptional education, supportive communities, and real-world experience. Whether you’re looking for affordability, prestige, or flexibility, one of these top 10 art schools in New Hampshire could be the perfect place to shape your artistic dreams into reality.