Top 15 Art Schools In Texas And Fees (2025)

Texas has long been a hub for creative talent in the United States. From visual arts to performing arts, the state offers an impressive variety of programs to nurture emerging artists. Whether you aspire to be a painter, sculptor, graphic designer, dancer, or musician, Texas has an institution that can provide you with the skills, mentorship, and industry exposure to excel.

In this article, we will explore the top 15 art schools in Texas, including their tuition fees, standout programs, and unique features. This guide will help prospective students make informed decisions about their education in the arts.

Top 15 Art Schools In Texas And Fees

1. University of Texas at Austin – College of Fine Arts

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Art History, Design, Theatre, Dance, Music
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $11,000 for Texas residents; $40,000 for out-of-state students
• Why It Stands Out: UT Austin is one of the largest and most prestigious art schools in the country. Students benefit from state-of-the-art studios, galleries, and performance spaces. The college fosters collaboration between disciplines and provides exposure to nationally recognized faculty and visiting artists.

2. University of Houston – Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts

• Programs Offered: Graphic Design, Photography, Painting, Sculpture, Dance, Theatre
• Annual Tuition: Around $26,808 for in-state students
• Highlights: This college is known for its innovative programs that combine traditional and digital art. Students also benefit from strong community engagement and partnerships with local arts organizations, providing opportunities for exhibitions and performances.

3. University of North Texas – College of Visual Arts and Design

• Programs Offered: Graphic Design, Animation, Photography, Ceramics, Painting
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $26,774 for Texas residents
• Why Choose UNT: UNT emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and experimentation. The school encourages interdisciplinary work and hosts frequent exhibitions, giving students real-world exposure to professional art practices.

4. Texas A&M University – College of Architecture

• Programs Offered: Architecture, Visualization, Urban Planning
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $24,000 for Texas residents
• Highlights: While primarily known for architecture, Texas A&M offers strong visualization programs, including digital design and environmental arts. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge software and collaborative projects.

5. Texas Christian University – College of Fine Arts

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Theatre, Dance, Music
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $48,000
• Why It’s Unique: TCU offers personalized education with smaller class sizes, allowing students to work closely with faculty. The school has a strong record of alumni success in both fine arts and performing arts careers.

6. Midwestern State University – Dillard College of Business Administration

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Theatre
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $24,593 for in-state students
• Highlights: MSU focuses on practical applications of art and theatre, preparing students for careers in creative industries. Students participate in exhibitions, performances, and community outreach programs to build their portfolios and experience.

7. University of Texas at San Antonio – College of Liberal and Fine Arts

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Art History, Theatre
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $31,334 for Texas residents
• Why It Stands Out: UTSA promotes cultural engagement and diversity through its programs. Students benefit from modern facilities and frequent exhibitions that connect them with the local arts community.

8. St. Mary’s University – College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Art History
• Annual Tuition: Around $35,000
• Highlights: St. Mary’s provides a strong liberal arts education with emphasis on social responsibility. Art students often engage with community projects and gain exposure to interdisciplinary approaches.

9. Trinity University – Department of Art and Art History

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Art History
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $50,000
• Why Choose Trinity: The university recently received a $25 million donation to enhance arts and humanities programs, expanding opportunities for student scholarships, advanced facilities, and visiting artist programs.

10. San Jacinto College – Fine Arts Department

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Theatre, Music
• Annual Tuition: $2,800–$3,000 for in-state students
• Highlights: Located in Houston, San Jacinto College is an affordable option that offers quality programs in fine arts. The school emphasizes student exhibitions, performances, and career preparation in the arts.

11. The Woodlands Academy of Art

• Programs Offered: Painting, Drawing, Sculpture
• Tuition: Varies depending on program
• Why It Stands Out: This academy provides highly personalized instruction in a supportive environment, allowing students to focus on their chosen medium and artistic style.

12. Glassell School of Art (Museum of Fine Arts, Houston)

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Art History
• Tuition: Program-dependent
• Highlights: Students benefit from close ties to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, gaining access to professional exhibitions and mentorship from practicing artists.

13. The Art Institute of Houston

• Programs Offered: Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Culinary Arts
• Annual Tuition: $18,000–$20,000
• Why It’s Notable: The institute emphasizes career readiness alongside creative skill-building. Students receive professional mentorship and guidance to help transition into creative industries.

14. Texas School of the Arts (TeSA)

• Programs Offered: Dance, Theatre, Visual Arts
• Tuition: Varies by program
• Highlights: TeSA provides a comprehensive arts education within a public school setting, allowing students to combine traditional academics with intensive arts training.

15. University of the Incarnate Word – College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

• Programs Offered: Studio Art, Art History
• Annual Tuition: Approximately $35,050
• Why Choose UIW: The school emphasizes social engagement and community involvement, blending fine arts education with broader cultural understanding.

How to Choose the Right Art School in Texas

When deciding on an art school, consider these factors:

1. Program Focus – Ensure the school offers the art discipline you want to pursue.
2. Tuition and Financial Aid – Compare costs and scholarship opportunities.
3. Location – Consider proximity to home, cultural hubs, and potential internships.
4. Faculty and Facilities – Evaluate the experience of professors and quality of studios, labs, and performance spaces.
5. Alumni Success – Investigate career outcomes of graduates to gauge the school’s effectiveness.

Conclusion

Texas is a state of opportunity for aspiring artists. From prestigious universities to smaller, specialized institutions, the Lone Star State offers a variety of paths for creative growth. By carefully evaluating programs, tuition, and facilities, students can find a school that aligns with their artistic vision and career goals.

Remember, success in the arts comes not only from talent but also from the environment in which you develop your craft. These top 15 art schools in Texas provide the guidance, resources, and exposure needed to thrive in creative industries.