Top 15 Art Schools In Tennessee And Fees (2025)
Tennessee is more than just music and barbecue—it’s a thriving hub for creative talent. From Nashville’s vibrant arts scene to the scenic campuses across the state, aspiring artists can find schools that cater to every creative discipline, whether it’s painting, sculpture, graphic design, photography, or digital media. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in Tennessee, their programs, tuition fees, and what makes them stand out for students seeking a rewarding career in the arts.
Top 15 Art Schools In Tennessee And Fees
1. Watkins College of Art at Belmont University – Nashville
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and MFA degrees in Visual Arts, including Illustration, Art Education, Graphic & Experiential Design, and Art History.
Tuition: Approximately $37,000 per year
Why Choose Watkins College of Art: Located in the heart of Nashville, Watkins College is renowned for its hands-on approach to art education. Students benefit from small class sizes, mentorship from experienced faculty, and access to Belmont University’s extensive resources. The school emphasizes both traditional and contemporary art practices, preparing graduates for professional careers in fine arts, media, and design industries.
2. University of Tennessee, Knoxville – School of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Fine Arts, including Painting, Sculpture, and Printmaking.
Tuition: In-state: $20,885 per year | Out-of-state: $31,000 per year
Why Choose UT Knoxville: UT Knoxville combines a rich academic tradition with state-of-the-art studios and exhibition spaces. Students are encouraged to explore creative research while building technical skills. The university also offers opportunities for internships, exhibitions, and community art projects, giving students real-world experience before graduation.
3. Nossi College of Art – Nashville
Programs Offered: Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in Graphic Design, Photography, Illustration, and Animation
Tuition: $6,700 per semester
Why Choose Nossi College: Nossi is highly career-focused, offering programs that prepare students for employment in creative industries immediately upon graduation. The school offers a fixed tuition rate, personalized guidance, and strong connections with Nashville’s media and entertainment sectors.
4. Middle Tennessee State University – Department of Art and Design
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education
Tuition: In-state: $9,232 per year | Out-of-state: $29,232 per year
Why Choose MTSU: Middle Tennessee State University provides an affordable yet comprehensive art education. The program focuses on practical skills, artistic experimentation, and professional portfolio development. Students also benefit from a variety of student exhibitions and art shows on campus.
5. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Fine Arts, including Ceramics, Painting, and Sculpture
Tuition: In-state: $9,848 per year | Out-of-state: $20,848 per year
Why Choose UTC: UTC fosters a collaborative environment with a strong community of artists. The department emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and professional practice, preparing graduates for careers in studio arts, design, and education.
6. East Tennessee State University – Department of Art & Design
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Studio Art
Tuition: In-state: $10,632 per year | Out-of-state: $20,632 per year
Why Choose ETSU: ETSU offers a well-rounded curriculum that balances theory with practice. Students can access excellent facilities, including studios for digital media, ceramics, and painting. The program encourages participation in exhibitions, competitions, and internships, allowing students to gain professional exposure early.
7. Tennessee State University – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Fine Arts, including Painting, Sculpture, and Graphic Design
Tuition: In-state: $11,015 per year | Out-of-state: $21,015 per year
Why Choose TSU: Tennessee State University emphasizes diversity, community engagement, and social responsibility in art. The school supports students in developing their personal artistic voices while preparing them for careers in education, studio art, or design fields.
8. University of Memphis – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Fine Arts, including Painting, Sculpture, and Graphic Design
Tuition: In-state: $10,256 per year | Out-of-state: $20,256 per year
Why Choose U of M: With a dynamic arts program and access to Memphis’ rich cultural scene, students are encouraged to integrate contemporary trends with traditional techniques. The department also offers gallery exhibitions, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
9. Freed-Hardeman University – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Art, including Studio Art and Graphic Design
Tuition: Approximately $13,512 per year
Why Choose Freed-Hardeman: A Christian-based institution, Freed-Hardeman offers a supportive learning environment that emphasizes ethics, creativity, and personal development. Students benefit from close faculty interactions and opportunities to participate in exhibitions and community art projects.
10. Tennessee Technological University – Department of Art, Craft & Design
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Fine Arts, including Ceramics, Sculpture, and Graphic Design
Tuition: In-state: $9,802 per year | Out-of-state: $19,802 per year
Why Choose TTU: TTU is recognized for its emphasis on craftsmanship, design principles, and hands-on learning. Students have access to advanced facilities for ceramics, metals, and digital media. The program also encourages collaboration and participation in national art competitions.
11. Lee University – Department of Art & Design
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Graphic Design
Tuition: Approximately $30,260 per year
Why Choose Lee University: Lee University combines rigorous academics with strong creative practice. The program focuses on both traditional and digital media, preparing students for careers in art, design, and education while integrating personal growth and ethical practices.
12. University of the South (Sewanee) – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Art History
Tuition: Approximately $50,000 per year
Why Choose Sewanee: Sewanee offers a liberal arts approach to art education, allowing students to explore a wide range of disciplines. Its scenic campus and intimate class sizes encourage deep exploration and creativity, making it ideal for students seeking a contemplative and intensive study of art.
13. Southern Adventist University – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Graphic Design
Tuition: Approximately $23,000 per year
Why Choose Southern Adventist: The program integrates faith and creativity, providing a balanced approach to ethical, personal, and professional development. Students have access to exhibitions, workshops, and a supportive learning community.
14. Belmont University – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Art History
Tuition: Approximately $45,000 per year
Why Choose Belmont University: Belmont’s art department emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and professional preparation. Students benefit from Nashville’s art scene, gallery access, and collaborative projects with local creative industries.
15. Vanderbilt University – Department of Art
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Studio Art and Art History
Tuition: Approximately $65,008 per year
Why Choose Vanderbilt: Vanderbilt combines top-tier academic resources with exceptional facilities for creative practice. The program emphasizes research, creative exploration, and exhibition opportunities, making it ideal for students aiming for a professional or academic career in the arts.
Conclusion
Tennessee offers a rich variety of art schools, each with unique strengths, programs, and tuition fees. From affordable state universities like MTSU and UTC to elite institutions like Vanderbilt and Sewanee, aspiring artists can find the right balance between cost, specialization, and learning environment. When choosing a school, consider factors like program offerings, faculty expertise, facilities, location, and tuition fees to find a school that aligns with your artistic goals and career ambitions.
No matter which school you choose, Tennessee provides the perfect canvas for budding artists to flourish. Start planning your application today, explore scholarships, and take the first step toward a creative career in the arts!