Top 15 Art Schools In Washington And Fees (2025)
Choosing the right art school is a life-changing decision for every aspiring artist or designer. Whether you’re passionate about fine arts, digital illustration, photography, or graphic design, Washington State offers a wide range of options that blend creativity, innovation, and affordability. From top-tier universities in Seattle to small design colleges across Tacoma, Spokane, and Bellingham, this guide explores the top 15 art schools in Washington and their fees to help you find your perfect fit.
Top 15 Art Schools in Washington and Their Fees
1. University of Washington – School of Art + Art History + Design (Seattle)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $18,792 (resident) / $32,811 (non-resident)
The University of Washington’s School of Art + Art History + Design is the most prestigious art program in the state. Students can major in disciplines such as Interdisciplinary Visual Arts, Painting and Drawing, Design, and Photo/Media. The school emphasizes both traditional and digital art, encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration.
UW’s modern studios, galleries, and research facilities provide a perfect environment for artistic exploration. Scholarships are also available, making it more affordable for talented students.
Why Choose It: Prestigious faculty, strong alumni network, research-oriented learning, and Seattle’s rich art culture.
2. Cornish College of the Arts (Seattle)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $41,684
Cornish College of the Arts is one of the oldest independent art colleges in the Pacific Northwest. Located in the heart of Seattle, Cornish offers BFA degrees in Visual Arts, Design, Animation, and Illustration.
Students benefit from personalized attention, hands-on studio work, and collaboration across art disciplines such as theatre, dance, and music.
While Cornish is more expensive, its creative focus and strong connections with Seattle’s design industry make it ideal for serious art students.
Why Choose It: Creative community, small class sizes, excellent portfolio preparation, and career readiness.
3. Northwest College of Art & Design (Tacoma)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $18,100
Northwest College of Art & Design (NCAD) offers specialized programs in visual communication, graphic design, and fine arts. It’s known for blending traditional techniques with modern design principles.
The college’s intimate learning environment allows for individualized mentoring from experienced instructors. Its flexible curriculum and moderate tuition make it a good choice for students on a budget.
Why Choose It: Affordable private college, practical training, and strong industry relevance.
4. Western Washington University (Bellingham)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $8,703 (in-state)
Western Washington University’s Department of Art and Art History offers programs in studio art, photography, and design. Students develop critical thinking and visual storytelling skills while using state-of-the-art studios and computer labs.
WWU provides a well-rounded education with affordable tuition for Washington residents, making it one of the best value art programs in the state.
Why Choose It: Low tuition, modern facilities, and emphasis on creative freedom.
5. Central Washington University (Ellensburg)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $15,744 (average net price)**
Central Washington University’s Department of Art + Design offers BA and BFA programs with concentrations in studio art, graphic design, and art education.
CWU focuses on building artistic skills through creativity, innovation, and professional development. Its Art Department hosts regular exhibitions and collaborative projects that prepare students for real-world artistic careers.
Why Choose It: Affordable public university with a strong reputation for design and art education.
6. Seattle University (Seattle)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $26,505
Seattle University combines fine arts education with a liberal arts foundation. The Visual Art program focuses on studio practice, critical theory, and professional portfolio development.
Located in Capitol Hill—Seattle’s cultural heart—students can immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic arts scene. The school’s balance between creativity and academic depth sets it apart.
Why Choose It: Ideal location, diverse art curriculum, and access to Seattle’s thriving creative industry.
7. Whitworth University (Spokane)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $21,283
Whitworth University offers art degrees with concentrations in two-dimensional and three-dimensional media. The program blends technical training with critical reflection on visual culture.
Students participate in gallery exhibitions, art competitions, and community projects. Whitworth’s faith-based environment also provides an encouraging and values-driven approach to creativity.
Why Choose It: Balanced creative and ethical learning environment, affordable tuition for a private school.
8. Clover Park Technical College (Lakewood)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $7,904
Clover Park Technical College offers applied design programs that prepare students for creative careers in digital design, photography, and animation.
The college emphasizes practical training and skill application, making graduates job-ready. Its affordable tuition makes it a great entry point for students interested in applied arts without taking on heavy debt.
Why Choose It: Very affordable, hands-on programs, job-oriented courses.
9. Eastern Washington University (Cheney)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $12,856
Eastern Washington University’s Department of Art focuses on studio arts, digital design, and visual communication. Students learn from award-winning artists and have opportunities to display their work in the university’s galleries.
EWU offers excellent financial aid packages and scholarships, making it a practical option for many Washington residents.
Why Choose It: Balanced academic and creative approach with low tuition costs.
10. Seattle Pacific University (Seattle)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $26,505
Seattle Pacific University’s Art Department combines creativity with critical inquiry. It offers degrees in studio art, visual communication, and illustration.
Students enjoy small class sizes, mentorship opportunities, and access to Seattle’s rich cultural landscape. SPU is known for nurturing both artistic talent and personal growth.
Why Choose It: Strong mentorship, faith-based values, and good career support.
11. Lake Washington Institute of Technology (Kirkland)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $9,490
LWTech offers programs in digital design, multimedia art, and 3D animation. Its emphasis on industry-ready skills ensures graduates can move directly into creative careers.
The institute’s low tuition and high-tech facilities make it a hidden gem for students who want modern digital art training without the price tag of a private art school.
Why Choose It: Career-oriented programs, affordable, modern tech-driven campus.
12. Washington State University (Pullman)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $13,740 (in-state graduate programs)**
Washington State University’s Department of Fine Arts offers BA and MFA programs in painting, sculpture, and digital media. Students work closely with faculty in intimate studio settings while also benefiting from a major research university’s resources.
Its reputation for academic excellence and creative innovation makes WSU one of the best choices for serious art scholars.
Why Choose It: Strong research environment and graduate-level opportunities.
13. Spokane Falls Community College (Spokane)
Estimated Annual Tuition: $6,763
Spokane Falls Community College offers Associate of Fine Arts and Graphic Design programs. It’s one of the most affordable ways to begin an art education before transferring to a four-year university.
Students get hands-on experience in digital design, photography, and visual communication.
Why Choose It: Extremely affordable and transfer-friendly art programs.
14. Seattle Central College (Seattle)
Estimated Annual Tuition: Varies (~$6,000–$8,000 average)**
Seattle Central College offers programs in Apparel Design, Graphic Design, and Visual Media. These courses combine artistic creativity with practical industry skills.
The college provides a supportive environment for students starting their creative journey. It’s also ideal for those looking for short-term certificates in applied arts.
Why Choose It: Great location, affordable tuition, strong focus on employability.
15. Washington Studio School (Seattle)
Estimated Annual Tuition: Around $3,825/year**
Washington Studio School provides atelier-style instruction for students focused on painting, drawing, and figure study.
Though it’s not a degree-granting institution, it’s perfect for serious artists who want professional studio training. The school’s small classes and mentorship programs create a nurturing creative atmosphere.
Why Choose It: Excellent non-degree option for professional skill building at a low cost.
Quick Comparison Table
| School | Location | Approx Annual Tuition | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Washington | Seattle | $18,792 (WA resident) | Public |
| Cornish College of the Arts | Seattle | $41,684 | Private |
| Northwest College of Art & Design | Tacoma | $18,100 | Private |
| Western Washington University | Bellingham | $8,703 | Public |
| Central Washington University | Ellensburg | $15,744 | Public |
| Seattle University | Seattle | $26,505 | Private |
| Whitworth University | Spokane | $21,283 | Private |
| Clover Park Technical College | Lakewood | $7,904 | Public Technical |
| Eastern Washington University | Cheney | $12,856 | Public |
| Seattle Pacific University | Seattle | $26,505 | Private |
| Lake Washington Institute of Technology | Kirkland | $9,490 | Public Technical |
| Washington State University | Pullman | $13,740 | Public |
| Spokane Falls Community College | Spokane | $6,763 | Public |
| Seattle Central College | Seattle | $6,000–$8,000 | Public |
| Washington Studio School | Seattle | $3,825 | Private Studio |
How to Choose the Right Art School in Washington
- Set a clear creative goal – Do you want to work in fine arts, design, or media production? Your answer determines the right school.
- Compare costs and scholarships – Tuition can vary widely. Public universities often offer lower in-state rates and financial aid.
- Visit campus or attend virtual tours – Facilities, faculty, and creative environments matter.
- Check program accreditation – Ensure your degree or certificate is recognized by accredited art and education bodies.
- Look at career outcomes – Some schools have stronger industry connections and placement rates than others.
- Plan your finances early – Consider living costs, materials, and potential debt before committing.
Conclusion
Washington State has one of the most dynamic creative education ecosystems in the United States. From high-profile institutions like the University of Washington and Cornish College of the Arts to more affordable options like Clover Park Technical College and Spokane Falls Community College, there’s a school for every type of artist.
Before making your choice, compare costs, visit campuses, and review course content. Your ideal school should align with your budget, creative vision, and career goals.