Best Online Art Schools for Creative Thinkers
Want to hone your creative skills? Interested in art and design careers? Then online art school might be the right path for you. Many art and design jobs require a bachelor’s degree — and online art schools offer a flexible path to an art degree.
What can you do with an online art degree? How do you get into art school? And is online art school worth it? Our resources, including a ranking of the best online art schools, can help you learn more and make an informed decision.
Best Online Art Schools
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $129
Out-of-State | $553
Credits to Graduate: Unspecified
UF Online's BA in digital arts and sciences combines communication, arts, and technology in a single program. You'll learn creative, technical, and critical thinking skills — all highly sought-after soft skills in the current job market. Courses include art appreciation, digital storytelling, and principles of digital visualization.
Admission requirements vary depending on whether you're a first-year or transfer student. Applicants of all levels must submit a portfolio to the Digital Worlds Institute.
- In-State$4,477
- Out-of-state$25,694
- In-State$10,770
- Out-of-state$27,335
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate24%
- Students Enrolled54,814
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $503
Out-of-State | $598
Credits to Graduate: 120
ASU Online's BA in art with a concentration in art studies helps you create original works with your hands and prepares you for a professional art career. The program includes instruction in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, illustration, and animation.
First-year applicants need to have completed four years of high school math and English, three years of lab sciences, two years of social sciences, two years of a single foreign language, and one year of fine arts or career and technical education.
- In-State$11,308
- Out-of-state$13,512
- In-State$10,170
- Out-of-state$10,170
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled66,062
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Illinois University
- Charleston, IL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $329
Out-of-State | $790
Credits to Graduate: 33
EIU offers two online NASAD-accredited graduate-level art programs: an MA in art education and an MA in community arts. Both programs blend online classes with intensive in-person studio classes. The art education program is designed for art teachers and takes around two years to complete. Courses include research methods in art education and special topics in art history.
To apply to either program, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year university. To enroll in the art education program, you must have a license in art education. For the community arts program, you must have at least 18 undergraduate art credits.
- In-State$9,903
- Out-of-state$9,903
- In-State$8,060
- Out-of-state$19,345
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled8,804
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
University of Denver
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $766
Credits to Graduate: 16 or 24
At DU, you can earn a graduate certificate in arts and culture outreach and advocacy. You have the option of enrolling in a four-course or six-course program.
Both options require four concentration courses: event planning; arts and culture entrepreneurship; arts and culture: history, context, and trends; and arts and culture programs for social impact. The six-course certificate adds two elective courses.
To apply, you need to fill out an application and submit your resume and undergraduate transcripts.
- In-State$58,032
- Out-of-state$58,032
- In-State$58,032
- Out-of-state$58,032
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled13,384
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
University of Northern Iowa
- Cedar Falls, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $539
Credits to Graduate: 30
UNI's 100% online MA in art education uses a cohort style in which students take the same courses at the same time throughout the program. The program begins every fall, with the same group of teachers teaching throughout the program. Classes are delivered 100% online using platforms such as Blackboard and Zoom. Second-year courses are broken up into 16-week modules to allow time for research and writing.
To apply to UNI, you must submit an application, a resume, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
- In-State$8,396
- Out-of-state$19,940
- In-State$10,030
- Out-of-state$21,502
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled9,021
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $475
Credits to Graduate: 33
Accredited by NASAD, NSU's low-residency online MA in art program is predominantly online, with some campus meetings required. This program includes courses such as advanced problems in painting, photography, and sculpture. Some unique courses include introduction to digital technologies and creating mobile games. You'll also take a graduate seminar and complete a final creative research project.
To apply, you must submit an application along with your high school and college transcripts and official ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER scores.
- In-State$5,180
- Out-of-state$15,968
- In-State$5,738
- Out-of-state$16,526
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled8,847
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment89%
- AccreditationYes
Winthrop University
- Rock Hill, SC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit: $699
Credits to Graduate: 36
Winthrop's online MA in arts administration consists of 12 courses. You'll learn about audience development, fundraising, and marketing. Required courses include marketing the arts; financial analysis, budgeting, and fiscal management; and arts administration and the law. The program also includes a three-credit practicum that you must complete in person.
To apply, you must have at least one year of experience in professional or volunteer arts administration.
- In-State$15,306
- Out-of-state$29,636
- In-State$15,626
- Out-of-state$23,630
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled4,694
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Radford University
- Radford, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $297.17
Out-of-State | $598.8
Credits to Graduate: 60
Radford's 100% online MFA in design thinking best suits students aiming to become team leads, managers, trainers, and consultants. Courses include design management studio, international art history, design thinking for educators, and special topics in design thinking.
You don't need a design degree to apply, but you need a bachelor's degree. Radford prefers a minimum 3.0 GPA but primarily looks for candidates who demonstrate leadership and creativity.
- In-State$8,401
- Out-of-state$20,853
- In-State$9,457
- Out-of-state$18,503
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled7,531
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
SUNY Empire State College
- Saratoga Springs, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $295
Out-of-State | $353
Credits to Graduate: Unspecified
SUNY Empire State College offers five online undergraduate art degrees: an AA, an AS, a BA, a BS, and a bachelor of professional studies. These programs work well for people who want to sharpen their skills in the arts, teach, work in museums, or work in the arts.
Each program adheres to the same seven foundations: historical perspectives; artistic practice; artistic theory; diversity, equity, and inclusion; research skills; critical thinking skills; and ethical and social responsibility.
To apply, submit an application, along with proof of high school completion and official transcripts.
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$16,980
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,790
- Retention Rate46%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,545
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
What Is an Online Art Degree Exactly?
Online art schools emphasize visual design, digital media, and creative studies. Students who enroll in art programs online complete graduation requirements in a virtual classroom. You’ll collaborate on projects and critique work in online classes. Online art schools often require a final project, such as a portfolio, thesis, performance, or exhibition, in order to graduate.
Due to the field’s hands-on nature, many online art programs incorporate some on-campus components, such as summer studio intensives.
Many online art schools also offer design majors like graphic design, web design, fashion design, game design, and interior design. Alternatively, you can study art education or art history.
Fully online programs in the performing arts — such as music, dance, and theater — are uncommon, though you may be able to complete some coursework online. Similarly, reputable programs in fashion design typically require in-person training in pattern making and drafting.
Did You Know…
- In 2025, the World Economic Forum ranked creativity as one of the top 10 skills for the future.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that most careers in creative fields require at least a bachelor’s degree.
Compared to other workers, artists are 3.6 times more likely to be self-employed, according to a 2019 report from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Does Accreditation Matter for Online Art School?
When you’re earning a degree, accreditation matters. Accreditation indicates that a school or program meets certain standards of educational quality.
What’s more, only accredited colleges can distribute federal financial aid. And many employers only hire graduates from accredited institutions.
Some art programs will be programmatically accredited. Here are some of the major art and design accreditors to look for:
- Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA)
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
- National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD)
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
- National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
How to Get Into an Online Art School
While admission requirements can vary, most online art schools require you to submit the following:
Online application- Portfolio
- Transcripts
- Test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
What Can You Do With an Art Degree?
Artists play a critical role in many industries.
Designers, illustrators, and graphic designers often work in advertising, manufacturing, publishing, and entertainment. Art education majors may work as teachers in art departments.
Art history students, meanwhile, may be interested in becoming museum curators.
Although many art-related careers don’t require a degree, a college education can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.
| Job | Median Wage (May 2024) | Projected Growth Rate (2023-33) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Actors | $24 per hour | 5% | Some college, no degree |
| Art Directors | $111,040 per year | 5% | Bachelor’s |
| Craft and Fine Artists | $56,260 per year | 4% | None |
| Fashion Designers | $80,690 per year | 5% | Bachelor’s |
| Graphic Designers | $61,300 per year | 2% | Bachelor’s |
| Industrial Designers | $79,450 per year | 3% | Bachelor’s |
| Interior Designers | $63,490 per year | 4% | Bachelor’s |
| Musicians and Singers | $43 per hour | 2% | None |
| Photographers | $42,520 per year | 4% | High school diploma |
| Set and Exhibit Designers | $66,280 per year | 5% | Bachelor’s |
| Special Effects Artists and Animators | $99,800 per year | 4% | Bachelor’s |
| Web and Digital Interface Designers | $98,090 per year | 8% | Bachelor’s |
Q&A With a Real Artist and Art School Graduate
Q: Why did you decide to go to art school?
“I’ve been a 2D artist since I was a child, but as I got into high school, I saw on the internet how I didn’t quite compare to the best out there. I was introduced to 3D modeling and animation by my sister. I tried a Maya class in my community college, loved it, and got my associate of arts in art and new media. I eventually searched for ways to get my bachelor’s [in 3D modeling].”
Q: How did you choose your art program?
“I considered a few schools. I ended up choosing Gnomon [School of Visual Effects] because the student reels looked like professional work.”
Q: What surprised you the most about earning an art degree?
“I was surprised at how much a school’s name can get you in the door. … The job department was excellent and would follow up with studios after I applied to make sure I got that extra edge. I also had interviewers tell me that since I went to Gnomon, they knew I was capable and would be able to perform their work.”
Q: How did art school help you reach your personal or professional goals?
“The biggest way art school helped me was to give me access to industry professionals. Getting critique from them really helped me bring my work to another standard. They taught me techniques and skills that I would never have been able to learn otherwise. They also helped me look at my own work with a critical eye, which helps me in my personal work.”
Is Online Art School Worth It?
Whether online art school is worth it depends on your interests, circumstances, and goals. For some, an art degree can open doors. For others, however, a different major or delivery format may be a better fit.
Carefully consider the pros and cons of online art schools before you apply.
Consider online art school if…
- You need a flexible schedule due to work or other commitments.
- Your chosen art school fits your budget and offers degrees in your creative field.
- Earning an art degree would lead to new job opportunities or a higher salary.
- You have a clear plan for your career path, which requires a degree.
Avoid online art school if…
- The journey to becoming a Christian counselor is long, requiring a master’s degree in counseling and state licensure.
- Like any counseling job, Christian counseling exposes you to other people’s anxiety, trauma, and other types of mental distress, which can lead to career burnout.
- As a Christian counselor, you’ll have to navigate sensitive, diverse cultural and religious beliefs, which can disrupt the therapy process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Art School
Distance-friendly art majors can be completed online, while hands-on majors require in-person courses. Distance-friendly art majors might include digital media, photography, and art history, utilize digital tools, software, and online storage. Hands-on majors, including dance, painting, and ceramics, cannot be completed online due to required physical materials, specialized equipment, or live performances.
