Top 15 Art Schools In Portland And Fees (2025)
Portland, Oregon, is one of the most creative cities in America — a place where art, design, and culture merge into a thriving community of talent. From fine arts and illustration to graphic design and art therapy, Portland offers numerous opportunities for aspiring artists to learn, create, and connect.
If you’re dreaming of studying art in the Pacific Northwest, this post will walk you through the top 15 art schools in Portland and their fees, plus helpful tips on how to choose the right one for your goals and budget.
Top 15 Art Schools In Portland And Fees
1. Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA)
Tuition: Around $45,100 per year (undergraduate)
Website: pnca.willamette.edu
The Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA), part of Willamette University, stands as the most recognized art school in Portland. Located in the Pearl District, PNCA offers cutting-edge facilities and programs across visual arts, design, illustration, and animated arts.
Students benefit from a hands-on, studio-based approach and can choose from Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs. PNCA’s downtown campus is close to galleries, design studios, and creative agencies — providing constant inspiration and internship opportunities.
While tuition is on the higher end, PNCA provides generous scholarships and financial aid to qualified students.
2. Portland State University – Schnitzer School of Art + Art History + Design
Tuition: Around $33,000 per year (international estimate)
Website: pdx.edu/art-design
Portland State University (PSU) is Oregon’s largest public university, and its Schnitzer School of Art + Art History + Design is an excellent choice for students who want quality art education at a more affordable rate.
The school offers programs in studio art, design, and art history, all integrated with community engagement projects. Students have access to urban exhibition spaces, internship programs, and an inclusive creative community.
As a public university, PSU provides solid value for in-state students and a more balanced tuition cost compared to private art schools.
3. Lewis & Clark College – Department of Art
Tuition: About $67,614 per year
Website: college.lclark.edu/departments/art
Lewis & Clark College is a private liberal arts institution that blends rigorous academics with creative exploration. Its Department of Art emphasizes both studio practice and art history, helping students develop technical skills and conceptual depth.
Students enjoy small class sizes, dedicated studio spaces, and easy access to Portland’s art galleries and museums. Despite the high tuition, the college offers competitive scholarships and need-based aid to offset costs.
For students seeking a balanced mix of liberal arts and fine arts in a close-knit learning environment, Lewis & Clark is an excellent choice.
4. University of Portland – College of Arts & Sciences
Tuition: Around $28,400 per semester
Website: up.edu
The University of Portland is a private Catholic institution with a strong commitment to academic excellence and creativity. Within the College of Arts & Sciences, students can pursue art and design programs that combine practical studio work with liberal arts education.
The university’s art program encourages creative thinking, aesthetic appreciation, and community service. It also maintains close ties with Portland’s art community, giving students opportunities to display their work and network with professionals.
Though costs can be significant, the University of Portland offers scholarships and assistantships to help students fund their education.
5. Portland Community College (PCC) – Art Program
Tuition: Around $4,200 per year
Website: pcc.edu/programs/art
Portland Community College (PCC) is one of the most affordable places to study art in Portland. Offering Associate of Fine Arts degrees and transfer programs, PCC provides students with a strong foundation in drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital design.
This is an ideal starting point for budget-conscious students who plan to transfer to a four-year college later. PCC also maintains partnerships with universities like PSU and PNCA, making the transfer process smoother.
Affordable, practical, and community-oriented — PCC is perfect for those looking to explore art without heavy financial pressure.
6. Warner Pacific University – Arts and Design
Tuition: Around $19,300 per year
Website: warnerpacific.edu
Warner Pacific University is a small Christian liberal arts college in Portland offering programs in arts, media, and design. The university’s creative curriculum blends artistic theory with applied practice, preparing students for careers in visual communication, design, or creative leadership.
Tuition is significantly lower than most private colleges, making Warner Pacific a solid mid-range option for art students. Its intimate setting ensures individualized attention and strong faculty mentorship.
7. Reed College – Studio Art and Art History
Tuition: Around $64,500 per year
Website: reed.edu
Reed College is one of the most intellectually rigorous liberal arts schools in the U.S. Its Art Department offers programs in studio art and art history, encouraging students to develop their artistic voice through critical inquiry.
Students have access to professional studios, exhibitions, and the Cooley Gallery on campus. The program is research-intensive, ideal for students who want to combine art creation with deep theoretical understanding.
While tuition is among the highest in Portland, Reed’s prestige and strong alumni network make it a worthwhile investment for serious artists and scholars.
8. George Fox University – Design & Applied Arts
Tuition: Around $38,520 per year
Website: georgefox.edu
Located just outside Portland, George Fox University offers excellent programs in design and applied arts. The school integrates technology, creativity, and Christian values, preparing students for careers in digital design, advertising, and fine arts.
George Fox ranks among Oregon’s top value universities for design and applied arts. With modern labs, a low student-to-faculty ratio, and community-driven projects, it’s an attractive option for students seeking both creative and professional development.
9. Lewis & Clark Graduate School – Art Therapy Program
Tuition: About $66,000 for the entire program
Website: graduate.lclark.edu
For those pursuing graduate studies, Lewis & Clark’s Art Therapy Program is one of the best in the Pacific Northwest. This master’s program blends psychology and art, preparing students for careers in clinical mental health and therapeutic art practices.
Students complete internships, research projects, and supervised fieldwork, ensuring both artistic and psychological competence. The program is accredited and leads toward professional licensure as an art therapist.
10. Pacific University – Fine Arts and Design
Tuition: Around $52,000 per year
Website: pacificu.edu
Located in nearby Forest Grove, Pacific University offers a range of fine arts and design programs that attract students from across Oregon. Courses emphasize creativity, professional skills, and portfolio development.
With small classes and modern facilities, Pacific University offers a nurturing environment for art students. It’s also close enough to Portland for easy access to the city’s art scene and exhibitions.
11. Oregon Institute of Technology – Applied Design
Tuition: Around $12,500 per year (resident)
Website: oit.edu
Though primarily known for its technical programs, the Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) offers strong applied design and digital arts programs. Students can explore the intersection of technology and creativity, from web design to multimedia production.
OIT’s practical, career-focused approach makes it ideal for students who want creative training with employable technical skills.
12. University of Oregon – College of Design
Tuition: Around $15,500 per year (in-state)
Website: uoregon.edu
While not located in Portland proper (it’s in Eugene), the University of Oregon deserves mention for its world-class College of Design. Many Portland students attend UO for its architecture, visual arts, and product design programs.
The school is known for research innovation, sustainability in design, and hands-on project learning. Students benefit from excellent faculty and facilities while enjoying lower public-school tuition rates.
13. Multnomah University – Creative Arts Minor
Tuition: About $29,000 per year
Website: multnomah.edu
Multnomah University is a small faith-based institution offering minors and elective courses in creative arts, digital media, and communication.
Though not a full art degree, this program is suitable for students who want to pair their main discipline with creative expression or digital design experience. It’s a low-pressure way to explore creativity while earning a traditional degree.
14. Oregon College of Art and Craft (OCAC)
Status: Closed in 2019
Note: Historically one of Portland’s most beloved art institutions, the Oregon College of Art and Craft (OCAC) specialized in fine arts, craft, and design. Although it has since closed, its legacy continues to influence many Portland artists and educators.
Prospective students can instead explore PNCA or PSU for similar studio-based programs.
15. The Art Institute of Portland (Historical)
Status: Closed in 2018
Once a major name in creative education, The Art Institute of Portland offered programs in media arts, fashion, and design. Although it no longer operates, many of its former faculty members now teach in other Portland institutions.
Why Study Art in Portland?
Portland is more than just a city — it’s a living gallery. With murals on every corner, independent art spaces, design firms, and a community that celebrates creativity, students here find inspiration everywhere.
The city’s affordability (compared to Los Angeles or New York), combined with its progressive art scene, makes it a top destination for aspiring artists and designers. Portland also has numerous galleries, creative festivals, and artist residencies that encourage collaboration and experimentation.
How to Choose the Best Art School in Portland
When deciding where to study, consider these key points:
- Define Your Art Focus: Are you more into fine arts, graphic design, animation, or art therapy?
- Check Studio Facilities: Ensure the school offers modern studios and equipment for your specialty.
- Compare Tuition and Financial Aid: Art schools vary widely in cost — from $4,000 at PCC to over $60,000 at private colleges.
- Review Portfolio Requirements: Most programs require portfolios. Start preparing early.
- Visit Campuses: The vibe of the school matters. Meet faculty and students if possible.
- Consider Career Outcomes: Look at alumni success, internship opportunities, and job placements.
- Explore Community Partnerships: Many Portland schools work closely with local galleries and businesses, providing hands-on experience.
Cost of Studying Art in Portland
Here’s a quick overview:
| School | Estimated Tuition (per year) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Portland Community College | $4,200 | Public |
| Portland State University | $33,000 | Public |
| PNCA (Willamette) | $45,100 | Private |
| Reed College | $64,500 | Private |
| Lewis & Clark | $67,600 | Private |
| Warner Pacific | $19,300 | Private |
| George Fox University | $38,520 | Private |
| Pacific University | $52,000 | Private |
| University of Portland | $56,800 | Private |
| Oregon Tech | $12,500 | Public |
(Tuition figures are approximate and may change annually. Always check official websites for current rates.)
Conclusion
Choosing the right art school in Portland is a personal decision that balances passion, cost, and career goals. Whether you prefer a world-class institution like PNCA, a liberal arts college like Lewis & Clark, or an affordable start at Portland Community College, the city has something for every creative dreamer.
Portland’s artistic energy, collaborative spirit, and thriving creative economy make it one of the best cities in the U.S. to pursue your art education.