Top 15 Art Schools In Tucson And Fees (2025)
Tucson, Arizona, is not only known for its beautiful desert landscapes and vibrant cultural scene—it’s also a thriving hub for artists and creatives. For aspiring artists, choosing the right school can make all the difference in developing their craft and building a successful career. From formal university programs to community workshops and private studios, Tucson offers a wide range of options for art education. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 15 art schools in Tucson and provide insights into their programs, tuition fees, and unique features to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you are a high school graduate looking to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, a working professional seeking evening classes, or someone exploring art as a hobby, Tucson has a school to meet your needs.
Top 15 Art Schools In Tucson And Fees
1. University of Arizona – School of Art
The University of Arizona’s School of Art is one of the most prestigious art schools in Tucson. It offers comprehensive programs in Fine Arts, Art History, Design, and Digital Media. Students can pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and even PhD degrees, making it an excellent choice for those seeking advanced education in art.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: Approximately $5,762.50 per semester (7+ units)
- Out-of-State: Approximately $18,913.50 per semester (12+ units)
Highlights:
The university also offers a unique “Free Grad School” program for MFA and PhD students, covering tuition and providing a stipend. Its campus facilities include state-of-the-art studios, digital labs, and exhibition spaces, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to professional art practices.
2. Pima Community College – Visual Arts Department
For students seeking an affordable entry point into the art world, Pima Community College offers an excellent Visual Arts Department. The college provides Associate Degrees in Fine Arts, Digital Arts, and other creative disciplines, serving as a strong foundation for transferring to a four-year university.
Tuition Fees:
- In-State: Approximately $2,442 per semester (12 credit hours)
- Out-of-State: Approximately $7,758 per semester (12 credit hours)
Highlights:
Pima Community College focuses on providing accessible and affordable education, with small class sizes and personalized attention from instructors. Students can also gain practical experience through exhibitions, internships, and community projects.
3. Tucson Art Academy
The Tucson Art Academy specializes in hands-on learning for traditional fine arts. It offers in-person workshops in painting, drawing, and sculpture, catering to both beginners and experienced artists.
Tuition Fees:
- Varies by course, typically ranging from $200 to $500
Highlights:
The Academy emphasizes foundational skills, personal mentorship, and studio practice. Its small classes allow students to receive individualized feedback, making it ideal for those looking to refine their craft in a supportive environment.
4. Tucson Art Academy Online (TAAO)
For artists who prefer the flexibility of learning from home, TAAO provides online courses in landscape painting, portraiture, and other fine art disciplines.
Tuition Fees:
- Approximately $895 per course
Highlights:
Courses include lifetime access for 365 days, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Online mentoring is provided, and students can participate in virtual critiques and discussions, making this program a great choice for international learners or working professionals.
5. The Art Institute of Tucson
The Art Institute of Tucson offers career-oriented programs, including Bachelor’s degrees in Graphic Design, Fashion Design, and Digital Media. This school is ideal for students seeking professional careers in applied arts and design.
Tuition Fees:
- Approximately $17,410 per academic year
Highlights:
The Art Institute focuses on industry-ready skills, providing internships and portfolio development opportunities. Students graduate with practical experience that helps them enter the competitive job market with confidence.
6. Southern Arizona Arts Guild (SAAG)
SAAG is a local organization that supports community art through workshops, classes, and exhibitions. This school is ideal for artists looking to engage with Tucson’s creative community.
Tuition Fees:
- Classes typically range from $100 to $300
Highlights:
SAAG offers opportunities for networking, showcasing work in exhibitions, and learning from experienced local artists. Its focus is on community engagement and professional development for artists.
7. Tucson Museum of Art – Art School
The Tucson Museum of Art offers educational programs for all age groups. Students can explore painting, drawing, ceramics, and more in a professional museum environment.
Tuition Fees:
- Typically ranges from $150 to $400 per course
Highlights:
Classes are taught by experienced instructors and often include gallery visits, giving students exposure to historical and contemporary art practices. Programs are designed for beginners, hobbyists, and serious artists alike.
8. Tucson Parks and Recreation – Art Programs
For residents seeking accessible art education, Tucson Parks and Recreation provides affordable community art classes and workshops.
Tuition Fees:
- Generally low-cost, sometimes subsidized for local residents
Highlights:
These programs aim to make art accessible to everyone, offering courses in painting, drawing, and mixed media. Community engagement and creativity are emphasized over formal accreditation.
9. Tucson School of Music and Dance
While primarily focused on performing arts, the Tucson School of Music and Dance also offers visual arts programs, creating a multidisciplinary learning environment.
Tuition Fees:
- Varies by program, typically $50–$300 per month
Highlights:
Students can explore both visual and performing arts, gaining a well-rounded creative education. This approach fosters creativity across multiple mediums.
10. Arizona School of Art
The Arizona School of Art provides private art lessons, emphasizing one-on-one instruction for students of all skill levels.
Tuition Fees:
- Approximately $30 per hour
Highlights:
Personalized instruction allows students to progress quickly, focusing on areas of interest such as drawing, painting, or digital art. The school is ideal for both hobbyists and serious art students.
11. The Drawing Studio
The Drawing Studio specializes in foundational skills for artists, offering classes in drawing, painting, and printmaking.
Tuition Fees:
- Typically $100–$400 per course
Highlights:
The studio’s focus on core skills helps students build confidence and technique, making it suitable for beginners and advanced learners alike.
12. Tucson Art Supply – Workshops
Tucson Art Supply occasionally hosts workshops for artists seeking hands-on experience with different media and techniques.
Tuition Fees:
- Typically $50–$200 per workshop
Highlights:
These workshops are short-term and focused, allowing artists to try new techniques or materials without committing to a full-time program.
13. Pima Arts Council – Art Classes
The Pima Arts Council organizes community art classes and events, supporting local artists and encouraging public participation.
Tuition Fees:
- Affordable and often subsidized
Highlights:
Students can participate in workshops, exhibits, and community projects, gaining exposure and networking opportunities.
14. University of Arizona – College of Fine Arts
Separate from the School of Art, the College of Fine Arts at the University of Arizona offers programs in music, dance, and theatre, alongside visual arts.
Tuition Fees:
- Varies depending on program and residency status
Highlights:
Interdisciplinary opportunities are available, allowing students to combine visual arts with performance, fostering a holistic creative education.
15. Tucson Art Walks and Festivals
While not a formal school, participating in Tucson Art Walks and Festivals offers invaluable learning and networking experiences.
Tuition Fees:
- Often free for attendees, small participation fees for artists
Highlights:
These events provide artists with exposure, opportunities to sell their work, and interaction with Tucson’s vibrant arts community. For many students, these experiences complement formal education and inspire creativity.
Conclusion
Tucson is a city that thrives on creativity. From formal university programs at the University of Arizona to affordable community workshops and online courses, there are art education opportunities for every type of student. When choosing a school, consider your career goals, preferred learning style, and budget. Many institutions also offer financial aid, scholarships, or subsidized programs to help students pursue their passion without financial stress.
Whether your dream is to become a professional fine artist, a designer, or simply to explore your creative side, Tucson’s art schools provide the resources, mentorship, and community to help you succeed. Take the time to visit campuses, meet instructors, and attend workshops—your artistic journey starts here.