Top 10 Art Schools In Savannah Ga And Fees (2025)
Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most beautiful and culturally vibrant cities in the United States — known for its cobblestone streets, artistic energy, and thriving creative community. Whether you’re interested in fine arts, digital media, fashion design, photography, or animation, Savannah offers incredible opportunities to study in a city that breathes creativity.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 art schools in Savannah, GA, their programs, tuition fees, and what makes each one unique. We’ll also discuss tips on how to choose the right art school for your goals and budget.
Top 10 Art Schools In Savannah Ga And Fees
1. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Overview
When it comes to art education in Savannah, SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) stands as the undisputed leader. Established in 1978, SCAD has become one of the world’s top creative universities, attracting students from more than 100 countries. Its Savannah campus, located in the city’s historic district, offers a perfect blend of classical architecture and cutting-edge modern facilities.
SCAD offers degrees in over 40 art and design disciplines, including:
- Fine Arts
- Graphic Design
- Animation
- Game Design
- Interior Design
- Film and Television
- Fashion
- Photography
- Industrial Design
The university is well-known for its strong focus on industry readiness, creative innovation, and impressive alumni network.
Tuition and Fees
For the current academic year:
- Undergraduate tuition and fees: $41,630 per year
- Graduate tuition and fees: $42,620 per year
- Room and board (on-campus): $14,000–$16,000 annually
- Estimated total cost of attendance: Around $66,000 per year
SCAD offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships for exceptional students, with awards ranging from $3,000 to $12,000 per year.
Why Choose SCAD?
SCAD ranks among the top 40 art and design universities globally, offering students access to industry professionals, internships, and global campuses in Atlanta, Lacoste (France), and online. Its reputation for blending creativity with professional development makes it a top choice for serious art students.
2. Savannah State University – Department of Fine and Performing Arts
Overview
Savannah State University (SSU) is a public historically Black university that provides quality art education at an affordable cost. Its Department of Fine and Performing Arts offers programs in visual arts, music, and theatre. Students gain hands-on experience through exhibitions, art history, studio courses, and digital media design.
Tuition and Fees
As a public university, Savannah State offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the region:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $5,700 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: About $16,500 per year
- Additional costs: Supplies, housing, and meals can add about $10,000–$12,000 annually.
Why Choose SSU?
For students seeking a budget-friendly route into art education without compromising on quality, SSU is a strong choice. It provides access to excellent faculty, vibrant student life, and art shows in the Savannah community.
3. Georgia Southern University – Armstrong Campus
Overview
Located just a few miles from downtown Savannah, the Armstrong Campus of Georgia Southern University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art and Graphic Design. Students enjoy small classes, hands-on workshops, and access to Savannah’s art scene.
Tuition and Fees
- In-state tuition: Around $6,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: About $17,000 per year
- Estimated total cost (including housing): $25,000 per year
Why Choose It?
This campus blends the resources of a large research university with the close-knit feel of a smaller art department. Students often participate in local galleries, exhibitions, and internships.
4. Savannah Technical College – Visual Communications Department
Overview
If you’re looking for a practical and career-focused art education, Savannah Technical College offers associate degrees and certificates in Visual Communications, Photography, and Graphic Design. Courses emphasize hands-on experience and job readiness.
Tuition and Fees
- In-state tuition: Approximately $3,200 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: About $6,000 per year
- Additional lab and material fees apply depending on the program.
Why Choose It?
Savannah Tech is perfect for students who want to enter the creative industry quickly or reduce costs by starting with an associate degree before transferring to a university like SCAD or Georgia Southern.
5. University of Georgia – Lamar Dodd School of Art (Savannah Extension)
Overview
While the main University of Georgia (UGA) campus is in Athens, its Lamar Dodd School of Art frequently collaborates with Savannah-based art programs and residency projects. Students can explore art in a broader state network while benefiting from Savannah’s cultural heritage.
Tuition and Fees
- In-state tuition: $12,000 per year (estimated for art majors)
- Out-of-state tuition: $32,000 per year
- Supplies and housing: $10,000–$15,000 additional
Why Choose It?
UGA’s art programs have a strong reputation for producing professional artists and designers, with opportunities to exhibit and network across Georgia.
6. Savannah Arts Academy (High School Level)
Overview
For younger students or families relocating to Savannah, the Savannah Arts Academy provides an outstanding foundation in visual and performing arts at the high school level. It’s one of the city’s most prestigious magnet schools for creative students.
Tuition and Fees
- Public school: Free for residents of Chatham County
- Non-resident fees (if applicable): Varies by district regulations
Why Choose It?
Many students from Savannah Arts Academy go on to attend SCAD or other prestigious art colleges. It’s a great stepping stone for high school artists looking to build their portfolio early.
7. Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences (Workshops & Continuing Education)
Overview
The Telfair Museums in Savannah offer adult and youth art workshops in fine art, painting, sculpture, and photography. These programs don’t award degrees but are perfect for ongoing professional development or skill-building.
Fees
- Workshops: Range from $100–$500 per course
- Membership discounts: Available for museum members
Why Choose It?
If you already have a degree or simply want to grow artistically, Telfair Academy workshops connect you with local artists and the broader creative community.
8. South University – Savannah Campus (Digital Arts & Media)
Overview
South University in Savannah offers degree programs in Digital Media, Graphic Design, and Web Technologies. The focus is on blending art with technology — ideal for students who want to enter modern creative industries like UI/UX, gaming, or media production.
Tuition and Fees
- Undergraduate tuition: Approximately $17,000 per year
- Graduate programs: Around $22,000 per year
Why Choose It?
Small class sizes and strong emphasis on digital creativity make South University a great alternative for tech-driven artists.
9. Savannah Cultural Arts Center – Community Art Programs
Overview
The Savannah Cultural Arts Center, operated by the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs, offers community art classes for all ages, from ceramics and painting to photography and theater. While not a formal school, it provides excellent opportunities for hands-on learning and networking with local artists.
Fees
- Community classes: $100–$350 per session
- Youth programs: Around $80–$150
Why Choose It?
Affordable and inclusive, this center allows both beginners and professionals to develop their creative skills while engaging with the Savannah arts community.
10. Savannah Drawing Room – Private Art Studio
Overview
For students interested in a classical fine arts approach, the Savannah Drawing Room offers professional instruction in figure drawing, portrait painting, and oil techniques. Classes are small and emphasize technique and artistic discipline.
Fees
- Individual classes: Around $200–$400 per session
- Workshops: Vary based on instructor and materials
Why Choose It?
It’s perfect for aspiring fine artists who prefer a personalized, studio-based education or portfolio improvement before applying to larger schools like SCAD.
Summary of Tuition Fees (Estimated)
| School | Tuition (Per Year) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| SCAD | $41,630–$66,000 (total) | Private |
| Savannah State University | $5,700–$16,500 | Public |
| Georgia Southern University | $6,000–$17,000 | Public |
| Savannah Technical College | $3,200–$6,000 | Public |
| University of Georgia (Extension) | $12,000–$32,000 | Public |
| Savannah Arts Academy | Free (public) | Public |
| Telfair Academy | $100–$500 (workshops) | Private |
| South University | $17,000–$22,000 | Private |
| Savannah Cultural Arts Center | $100–$350 (community) | Public |
| Savannah Drawing Room | $200–$400 (private lessons) | Private |
How to Choose the Right Art School in Savannah
Choosing the right art school is not just about prestige — it’s about fit, affordability, and career goals. Here are a few tips:
- Consider your budget.
Private institutions like SCAD offer world-class education but come at a higher cost. Public schools and technical colleges provide more affordable alternatives. - Think about your career path.
Are you aiming to be a fine artist, a designer, or an animator? Choose a school whose strengths align with your goals. - Evaluate facilities and networks.
Visit campuses, check out studios, and ask about internship or job placement support. - Build your portfolio early.
Strong portfolios can win you scholarships and admission to top programs. - Leverage scholarships and grants.
SCAD, Georgia Southern, and SSU all offer financial aid — don’t skip those opportunities.
Conclusion
Savannah is a dream destination for artists — a city where history, culture, and creativity meet. Whether you attend SCAD for its global reputation, Savannah State for affordability, or Savannah Tech for practical training, the city offers every kind of art education experience.
Each of the top 10 schools listed above contributes uniquely to Savannah’s thriving art scene. By matching your creative aspirations with the right program and budget, you can launch a fulfilling artistic journey in one of the South’s most inspiring cities.