Top 10 Art Schools In Utah And Fees (2025)
Utah may be famous for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and film festivals — but beyond that, it’s also home to a growing creative community and some of the most respected art schools in the Western U.S. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a fine artist, designer, animator, or art educator, the Beehive State offers several great institutions to help you master your craft.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top 10 art schools in Utah and their fees, focusing on each school’s unique strengths, tuition costs, and what makes them stand out. If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality place to study art in Utah, this post is for you.
Top 10 Art Schools In Utah And Fees
1. Brigham Young University (Provo)
Location: Provo, Utah
Estimated Tuition: $3,444 (LDS rate) or $6,888 (non-LDS) per semester
Brigham Young University (BYU) consistently ranks among the best art schools in Utah for its world-class programs in fine art, illustration, and animation. The BYU Center for Animation has produced several award-winning student films and alumni who work for major studios like Pixar and DreamWorks.
The university offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art, Animation, and Graphic Design, all emphasizing creative exploration and technical mastery. BYU’s facilities include state-of-the-art studios, 3D labs, and exhibition spaces where students can display their work.
Despite its private status, BYU remains one of the most affordable art schools in the U.S., especially for LDS-affiliated students. However, even non-members find the tuition competitive compared to national private art schools.
Highlights:
- Nationally recognized animation program
- Excellent student-to-faculty ratio
- Affordable private university tuition
- Hands-on learning through exhibitions and film projects
2. University of Utah (Salt Lake City)
Location: Salt Lake City
Estimated Tuition: $9,620 (in-state) / $30,860 (out-of-state) per year
The University of Utah is the state’s flagship research institution and home to a vibrant College of Fine Arts. Students can pursue degrees in Studio Art, Art History, Graphic Design, and Sculpture. The university’s art program emphasizes both classical and digital techniques, blending theory with practice.
Students benefit from modern facilities such as the Gittins Gallery and the Marriott Center for Dance, plus countless collaboration opportunities within Utah’s growing creative industry.
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Strong fine arts and digital media programs
- Access to major art events and galleries in Salt Lake City
- Internship opportunities with local studios and museums
For in-state students, tuition remains moderate, while out-of-state learners should budget carefully as fees are significantly higher.
3. Utah State University (Logan)
Location: Logan, Utah
Estimated Tuition: About $9,821 per year (average net price)
Utah State University (USU) offers a comprehensive Department of Art + Design that covers Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography, and Interior Design. The school’s programs encourage creativity through experimentation, research, and portfolio development.
USU is known for providing excellent value, balancing affordability with a strong academic reputation. Students enjoy access to workshops, computer labs, and community-based art projects that help them build real-world experience.
Highlights:
- Affordable tuition with strong state funding
- Beautiful mountain campus
- Internship and exhibition opportunities in Logan and beyond
If you’re looking for a balance between cost, quality, and campus life, USU is one of Utah’s best options for art students.
4. Weber State University (Ogden)
Location: Ogden, Utah
Estimated Tuition: About $6,557 (in-state) per year
Weber State University has made a name for itself as one of the best value art schools in Utah. Its Department of Visual Art & Design offers programs in Studio Art, Art Education, and Graphic Design. Students are encouraged to develop their artistic voice while gaining teaching and professional skills.
The university offers small classes, individualized attention, and a supportive faculty. Art exhibitions and student showcases are regular features, helping learners build portfolios that stand out.
Why Choose Weber State:
- Low tuition rates
- Strong art education focus
- Great student support and mentorship
Ogden’s proximity to Salt Lake City also provides access to Utah’s growing creative job market.
5. Utah Valley University (Orem)
Location: Orem, Utah
Estimated Tuition: $6,507 (in-state) / $18,489 (out-of-state) per year
Utah Valley University (UVU) has expanded rapidly to become one of Utah’s largest public universities, offering a robust School of the Arts. The school provides degrees in Art & Design, Illustration, and Animation & Game Development, giving students diverse career paths in visual creativity.
The campus offers professional studios, computer labs, and collaborative learning spaces. UVU’s art faculty consists of practicing artists and designers who guide students in building strong technical and conceptual portfolios.
Highlights:
- Excellent art and animation options
- Affordable in-state tuition
- Strong emphasis on professional development
For students seeking a balance between affordability and a modern, career-focused art curriculum, UVU is an outstanding choice.
6. Southern Utah University (Cedar City)
Location: Cedar City
Estimated Tuition: About $9,873 per year
Southern Utah University (SUU) combines small-class intimacy with big-school opportunity. Its Department of Art & Design offers degrees in Studio Art, Illustration, Photography, and Graphic Design.
What makes SUU stand out is its close connection to Utah’s arts scene, including the Utah Shakespeare Festival and local galleries. Students enjoy personalized mentorship from experienced faculty and numerous opportunities for public exhibitions.
Why It’s Popular:
- Small class sizes and personalized feedback
- Affordable tuition
- Strong emphasis on community arts
SUU’s art program also prepares students to pursue teaching, curatorial work, or professional art practice, making it a flexible choice for creatives.
7. Dixie State University (Utah Tech University – St. George)
Location: St. George, Utah
Estimated Tuition: Around $13,087 per year (average net price)
Now rebranded as Utah Tech University, this institution blends traditional fine arts with digital innovation. Its Art Department offers programs in Graphic Design, Studio Art, and Digital Art, with a focus on preparing students for the tech-driven creative economy.
The university’s southern Utah location offers warm weather, beautiful red-rock landscapes, and access to creative industries expanding in the region.
Highlights:
- Updated facilities and modern art labs
- Strong digital art and design focus
- Ideal for students who prefer smaller class environments
Utah Tech is a growing player in Utah’s art education landscape, balancing technology and creativity.
8. Salt Lake Community College (Salt Lake City)
Location: Salt Lake City
Estimated Tuition: About $4,086 (in-state) per year
For students seeking an affordable pathway into the arts, Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) offers excellent programs in Design, Fine Art, and Multimedia. SLCC provides two-year degrees and certificates that can be transferred to four-year universities like the University of Utah or BYU.
The college’s art facilities include digital labs, sculpture studios, and galleries that feature student work. It’s ideal for those who want to develop foundational art skills before pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Why It’s a Smart Option:
- One of the cheapest art programs in Utah
- Transfer agreements with four-year universities
- Hands-on art instruction with real-world projects
SLCC provides great value for beginners who want to test the art field before committing to a full university program.
9. Beaux-Arts Academy (Provo)
Location: Provo, Utah
Estimated Tuition: Around $7,500 per year
The Beaux-Arts Academy takes a classical approach to art education, offering intensive training in drawing, painting, and sculpture. This small private school focuses on traditional fine art techniques based on centuries-old European methods.
Students receive individualized mentorship and spend extensive time developing technical mastery. The academy’s curriculum is ideal for those seeking a more intimate and specialized studio environment rather than a large university.
Key Features:
- Traditional fine art instruction
- One-on-one attention
- Affordable compared to many private art schools
While smaller in scope, Beaux-Arts Academy provides a rare opportunity for artists who value craftsmanship and hands-on learning.
10. Utah Arts Academy (St. George)
Location: St. George, Utah
Estimated Fees: Courses up to $300 (charter high school level)
While technically a charter high school rather than a college, the Utah Arts Academy deserves mention for its excellence in pre-college art education. The school focuses on developing artistic discipline and technical ability in young students preparing for higher education in the arts.
If you’re still in high school or have a younger student interested in pursuing art at the college level, this academy offers an ideal stepping stone.
Highlights:
- Specialized arts-focused curriculum
- Affordable public charter tuition
- Strong foundation for college-level art programs
Summary Table: Art Schools and Fees in Utah
| School | Location | Approx. Annual Tuition (In-State) | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brigham Young University | Provo | $6,888 per semester | Animation, Studio Art, Design |
| University of Utah | Salt Lake City | $9,620 | Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Sculpture |
| Utah State University | Logan | $9,821 | Studio Art, Design, Photography |
| Weber State University | Ogden | $6,557 | Art Education, Studio Art |
| Utah Valley University | Orem | $6,507 | Illustration, Animation, Game Art |
| Southern Utah University | Cedar City | $9,873 | Studio Art, Photography, Design |
| Utah Tech University | St. George | $13,087 | Digital Art, Graphic Design |
| Salt Lake Community College | Salt Lake City | $4,086 | Fine Art, Multimedia Design |
| Beaux-Arts Academy | Provo | $7,500 | Classical Fine Art |
| Utah Arts Academy | St. George | Up to $300 | Pre-college arts education |
How to Choose the Right Art School in Utah
Selecting the right art school depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred environment. Here are key tips to guide you:
- Define Your Art Focus: Choose a school that aligns with your interest — fine art, animation, digital design, or education.
- Compare Tuition and Hidden Costs: Art supplies, lab fees, and studio materials can add up. Always check the total estimated cost of attendance.
- Ask About Scholarships: Many Utah schools offer departmental scholarships for outstanding portfolios or academic merit.
- Visit the Campus: Seeing studios, galleries, and student work firsthand can help you decide if a school fits your creative vibe.
- Consider Transfer Pathways: If cost is a concern, start at a community college like SLCC, then transfer to a four-year university.
Conclusion
Utah’s art schools combine affordability, creative opportunity, and community support in a way that few states can match. Whether you’re drawn to the innovative animation labs at BYU, the expansive fine arts program at the University of Utah, or the hands-on training at Beaux-Arts Academy, there’s a perfect fit for every aspiring artist.
With tuition ranging from just $4,000 to $10,000 per year (for most public schools), Utah offers one of the best balances between cost and quality for art students in America. Start by visiting campuses, exploring portfolios, and connecting with current students — your journey toward a fulfilling art career in Utah begins there.