Top 15 Art Schools In San Antonio And Fees (2025)
San Antonio, Texas, is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and growing creative community. From street murals downtown to galleries in the Pearl District, the city overflows with artistic expression. But beyond its beauty lies another treasure — world-class art education.
Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a professional painter, graphic designer, or art educator, San Antonio offers numerous reputable institutions to help you master your craft. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in San Antonio, including their program highlights, tuition fees, and unique features.
Top 15 Art Schools In San Antonio And Fees
1. University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) – School of Art & New Media
The University of Texas at San Antonio is one of the most recognized names in higher education in the region. Through its School of Art and New Media, UTSA offers both Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs, emphasizing practical studio work and creative research.
Students can specialize in areas such as painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, new media, and art education. The program recently integrated the Southwest School of Art, giving students access to expanded studio facilities and mentorship from experienced faculty.
- In-State Tuition: Approximately $9,231 per year
- Out-of-State Tuition: Around $21,528 per year
- Website: future.utsa.edu
Why choose UTSA: It’s a top choice for students looking for quality art education at a reasonable cost. The merger with the Southwest School of Art enhances its resources and studio capabilities, making it a great value for Texas residents.
2. Southwest School of Art (SSA)
Now affiliated with UTSA, the Southwest School of Art has long been a creative hub for artists in San Antonio. Founded in 1965, SSA has built a reputation for hands-on studio training, offering degrees and community classes in drawing, ceramics, printmaking, and digital arts.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and strong ties to the San Antonio art community. Even after merging with UTSA, SSA maintains its distinct focus on artistic craftsmanship.
- Annual Tuition: About $11,442 (for in-state and out-of-state)
- Website: ssa-sa.org
Why choose SSA: Perfect for students who want a studio-intensive education with a deep appreciation for traditional fine arts and craft-based techniques.
3. The Art Institute of San Antonio
The Art Institute of San Antonio offers a more career-oriented path for students interested in graphic design, animation, photography, culinary arts, and fashion design. Its programs combine creativity with professional development, giving students a chance to turn their artistic talents into viable careers.
Although tuition is higher than public universities, students gain exposure to industry-grade tools, portfolio development courses, and internship opportunities.
- Annual Tuition: Around $19,354 – $22,000
- Website: artinstitutes.edu/san-antonio
Why choose The Art Institute: Ideal for creative professionals who want to work in applied arts industries such as advertising, fashion, and media.
4. University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) – Fine Arts Department
The University of the Incarnate Word is a private Catholic university known for its blend of liberal arts and fine arts education. Its BFA in Studio Art program helps students refine technical skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and digital media, while also grounding them in art theory and history.
The school’s small size ensures close mentorship and a supportive artistic community. UIW students also enjoy opportunities to exhibit their work at campus and city galleries.
- Program Cost: Approximately $46,260 – $47,240 total
- Website: uiw.edu
Why choose UIW: Perfect for students who want a balance between academic rigor and artistic freedom in a faith-based environment.
5. St. Mary’s University – Fine Arts Program
St. Mary’s University offers a well-rounded Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program that blends studio work with liberal arts education. Students explore diverse disciplines such as drawing, sculpture, and mixed media while gaining a solid grounding in art history and criticism.
The campus culture encourages creativity through regular exhibitions and workshops. The small student-to-faculty ratio means personalized attention and mentorship.
- Program Cost: About $39,864 for the full BFA
- Website: stmarytx.edu
Why choose St. Mary’s: Excellent choice for students who value creativity, community, and strong academic support within a private university setting.
6. Trinity University – Department of Art and Art History
Although Trinity University is primarily known for its liberal arts excellence, its Art and Art History department offers high-caliber programs emphasizing creative expression, visual literacy, and critical thinking. Students can pursue studio art or art history concentrations, often combining them with minors in digital media or communication.
- Tuition: Approximately $49,264 per year (full university cost)
- Website: trinity.edu
Why choose Trinity: Perfect for those who want to pair artistic training with a prestigious liberal arts education. Graduates often pursue advanced studies or careers in arts administration, curation, and education.
7. St. Philip’s College – Art and Design Department
Part of the Alamo Colleges District, St. Philip’s College is an affordable community college that offers introductory and intermediate art courses. Students can complete an Associate of Arts in Art, which easily transfers to a four-year university like UTSA or Texas State.
The college provides access to well-equipped studios, gallery spaces, and experienced instructors—all at a fraction of the cost of major universities.
- In-District Tuition: ~$3,112 per year
- Out-of-District Tuition: ~$6,592 per year
- Website: alamo.edu/spc
Why choose St. Philip’s: Excellent starting point for budget-conscious students aiming to later transfer into a four-year fine arts degree program.
8. Fine Art Academy of San Antonio
The Fine Art Academy of San Antonio caters to both aspiring professionals and hobbyists. It offers part-time and full-time art instruction in disciplines like drawing, portraiture, oil painting, and charcoal. Students work under practicing artists who provide individualized critique and portfolio guidance.
- Fees: Vary by course; individual class pricing ranges from $200–$600 per session
- Website: faaofsa.com
Why choose Fine Art Academy: Great for those seeking intensive, traditional art training without enrolling in a full university degree.
9. San Antonio College – Visual Arts Department
Another member of the Alamo Colleges District, San Antonio College provides strong foundation programs in visual arts and design. Students can earn an Associate Degree in Studio Art or take transfer-focused art classes.
The school’s affordability, community connections, and art exhibitions make it a favorite among locals seeking practical and creative development.
- In-District Tuition: Around $3,112 per year
- Website: alamo.edu/sac
Why choose San Antonio College: An ideal option for students looking for low-cost yet comprehensive art instruction.
10. UT Health San Antonio – Medical Illustration and Design
For students interested in combining science and art, the UT Health San Antonio offers courses and continuing education in medical illustration and visual design. This program blends creativity with scientific knowledge, preparing graduates for careers in medical publishing, animation, and education.
- Tuition: Varies by course and program; generally competitive for specialized fields
- Website: uthscsa.edu
Why choose UT Health: Best suited for students who wish to merge artistic talent with healthcare and scientific visualization.
11. The Drawing Studio San Antonio
This private studio provides specialized courses in classical drawing and painting. It serves as an excellent resource for adults or students building a professional portfolio.
- Fees: Average of $400–$700 per session, depending on course length
- Website: thedrawingstudiosa.com
Why choose The Drawing Studio: A flexible, professional-quality art training space for developing fundamental skills.
12. Say Sí – Youth Art Program
Say Sí is a nationally recognized nonprofit art education organization offering creative youth development programs. Students (middle school to college) explore visual arts, media, and performance art while gaining leadership and career readiness skills.
- Fees: Typically free or subsidized for participants
- Website: saysi.org
Why choose Say Sí: Fantastic for younger artists seeking structured mentorship and professional exposure in the creative industry.
13. Artpace San Antonio
Artpace is more than just a contemporary art space—it also runs educational workshops and residencies for emerging artists. Students can participate in short courses, exhibitions, and community art programs.
- Fees: Workshop and residency costs vary
- Website: artpace.org
Why choose Artpace: Perfect for post-graduates or working artists seeking networking and exhibition opportunities.
14. Blue Star Contemporary Art Center
Located in the Blue Star Arts Complex, Blue Star Contemporary supports artists through residencies, exhibitions, and educational programs. While not a traditional school, it provides opportunities to develop portfolios and professional connections within San Antonio’s art ecosystem.
- Fees: Program-based; varies for each residency or workshop
- Website: bluestarcontemporary.org
Why choose Blue Star: Great for students and emerging artists looking for real-world exposure and gallery experience.
15. Southwest Preparatory School – Visual Arts Program
For high school students interested in pursuing art careers, Southwest Preparatory School offers a robust visual arts curriculum, preparing learners for advanced college study. The program encourages creativity, discipline, and foundational skill-building.
- Tuition: Based on grade level and campus
- Website: swprep.org
Why choose Southwest Prep: Excellent for younger students planning to transition into fine arts colleges or design schools.
Summary: Comparing Art Schools in San Antonio
| School | Type | Approx. Tuition | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTSA | Public University | $9,231 (in-state) | Fine Arts, New Media |
| Southwest School of Art | Private Art School | $11,442 | Studio Art |
| Art Institute of San Antonio | Private | $19,354–$22,000 | Design, Fashion, Digital Art |
| UIW | Private | $46,000+ | Studio Art |
| St. Mary’s | Private | $39,864 | Fine Arts |
| Trinity University | Private | $49,000 | Art & Art History |
| St. Philip’s College | Community | $3,112 | Art & Design |
| Fine Art Academy | Private Studio | Varies | Painting, Drawing |
| San Antonio College | Community | $3,112 | Studio Art |
| UT Health San Antonio | Specialized | Varies | Medical Illustration |
How to Choose the Right Art School in San Antonio
- Define your goals: Do you want to become a fine artist, designer, or educator?
- Compare tuition vs. value: Public universities offer great quality for lower costs.
- Look at facilities: Check for studios, galleries, and digital labs.
- Ask about scholarships: Many schools provide art-specific financial aid.
- Visit the campus: The artistic atmosphere of San Antonio can inspire creativity.
Conclusion
San Antonio’s art scene thrives on diversity, creativity, and innovation. From affordable community colleges like St. Philip’s and San Antonio College, to elite private institutions like UIW and Trinity University, there’s an option for every aspiring artist’s budget and career goal.
If you’re ready to turn your creativity into a career, start exploring these schools, check scholarship opportunities, and begin your artistic journey in one of Texas’s most vibrant cities.