Key Takeaways
- Phoenix is home to a thriving art scene supported by top-tier universities, private academies, and community programs.
- The best art schools in Phoenix offer specialized degrees in fine arts, graphic design, digital media, and ceramics.
- This guide compares the 10 best art institutions based on program diversity, reputation, tuition, facilities, and job placement.
- Use this list to find the ideal school for your goals—whether pursuing a degree, building a portfolio, or advancing creatively.
Why Study Art in Phoenix?
Phoenix, Arizona, is not only one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States—it’s also a creative hub with deep roots in visual, performing, and digital arts. The city hosts a rich cultural ecosystem supported by institutions like the Phoenix Art Museum, Roosevelt Row Arts District, and multiple design studios, providing students real-world exposure alongside coursework.
Art schools here balance a strong academic foundation with vibrant community engagement, giving students access to galleries, residencies, and internships that launch professional careers across the creative industries.
Top 10 Best Art Schools in Phoenix (2024)
1. Arizona State University – Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts
Location: Tempe, AZ (Greater Phoenix Area)
Programs: BFA, MFA in Studio Art, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and Art Education
Tuition: Approx. $11,308 (in-state), $29,952 (out-of-state)
ASU’s Herberger Institute stands out as the largest comprehensive design and arts college in the U.S. Its studio programs feature cutting-edge facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and access to internships with top creative organizations. Alumni often move into leading positions in design firms, galleries, and tech companies nationwide.
2. Phoenix College – Department of Art
Location: Downtown Phoenix
Programs: Associate in Fine Arts, Ceramics, Drawing, Digital Art
Tuition: Around $2,070 per year (in-state)
One of the oldest community colleges in Arizona, Phoenix College provides affordable, high-quality foundational training in art. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive personal mentorship and access to advanced printmaking and ceramics labs. Many graduates transfer smoothly to ASU or other top art schools.
3. Scottsdale Artists’ School
Location: Scottsdale Arts District
Programs: Workshops in Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, and Portraiture
Tuition: Workshop-based fees starting at $250
A prestigious private institution known globally for its classical and representational art instruction, the Scottsdale Artists’ School caters to both beginners and professionals. Courses are taught by nationally recognized artists, offering one-on-one critiques and portfolio development sessions. The school’s location in the heart of the Scottsdale Arts District provides immediate access to galleries and exhibitions.
4. The Art Institute of Phoenix (Legacy Programs)
Location: Phoenix (Closed 2019; Programs transferred to ASU and other institutions)
Programs: Graphic Design, Animation, Digital Media (historical)
While the Art Institute of Phoenix officially closed, its influence continues through transferred programs now upheld by ASU’s design college and online partners. Students considering similar curricula can find comparable offerings at ASU’s School of Art or the University of Arizona Online campus.
5. Shemer Art Center
Location: Arcadia District, Phoenix
Programs: Community Art Classes, Youth Workshops, Summer Intensives
Tuition: Affordable per-class rates ($45–$125)
As a historic art center listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Shemer merges accessibility with excellence. It’s perfect for beginners, hobbyists, and professionals seeking ongoing development in painting, ceramics, photography, or metalwork. Students showcase work regularly in curated exhibitions and juried art fairs.
6. Mesa Arts Center – School of Visual Arts
Location: Mesa (East Valley of Phoenix Metro)
Programs: Glassblowing, Printmaking, Jewelry Design, Photography
Tuition: Class-based pricing (varies by medium)
This award-winning facility features state-of-the-art studios and a nationally acclaimed glass studio. The Mesa Arts Center emphasizes experiential learning and offers robust community courses for teens and adults. Professional artists frequently lead seminars and open studios, making it one of the most hands-on art experiences in Arizona.
7. New School for the Arts and Academics (NSAA)
Location: Tempe
Programs: Middle & High School Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Visual Arts
Tuition: Charter school (no tuition for Arizona residents)
For younger aspiring artists, NSAA offers a rigorous secondary education emphasizing fine and performing arts within a college-prep curriculum. Alumni have gone on to attend top art schools nationwide. The integration of academics with studio work prepares students early for higher education in art and design.
8. Maricopa Community Colleges – Studio Arts Pathway
Location: Multiple campuses across Greater Phoenix
Programs: Associate in Fine Arts (Studio Art), Transfer Pathways to ASU and U of A
Tuition: Approx. $97 per credit hour (in-state)
The Maricopa Community Colleges network, which includes Mesa, Glendale, and South Mountain campuses, provides foundational art education at accessible tuition rates. Their transfer partnerships guarantee smooth transitions into four-year programs. Students benefit from excellent faculty and strong community art networks.
9. Phoenix Center for the Arts
Location: Midtown Phoenix
Programs: Adult and Youth Classes, Open Studio Programs, Art on the Go Outreach
Tuition: Per-course fees ($35–$150)
A vibrant nonprofit community hub, Phoenix Center for the Arts focuses on inclusion and accessibility. It connects local artists with students through diverse workshops in painting, mixed media, and digital design. The center’s mission-driven model emphasizes creativity for all, making it a top pick for aspiring artists of every age and background.
10. Arizona Christian University – Department of Visual Communication
Location: Glendale
Programs: BA in Visual Communication, Minor in Studio Art
Tuition: Approx. $26,800 per year
ACU provides a liberal arts perspective on art education with courses that intertwine faith, creativity, and professional design. Students focus on practical applications in branding, digital media, and illustration. Its small class sizes allow for strong mentorship and rapid creative development.
Comparison Table: Best Art Schools in Phoenix
School Main Focus Degrees Offered Approx. Tuition Best For Arizona State University Fine Arts & Design BFA, MFA $11K–$30K Professional degree seekers Phoenix College Studio Art AFA $2K Affordable degree pathway Scottsdale Artists’ School Classical Training Workshops $250+ Skill refinement Shemer Art Center Community Art Certificates $45–$125 Adults & hobbyists Mesa Arts Center Hands-on Studio Art Classes Varies Experiential learners
How to Choose the Right Art School in Phoenix
- Define your artistic goals: Decide whether you want a degree, certification, or creative enrichment.
- Consider cost and financial aid: ASU and Phoenix College offer scholarships and federal aid; community centers charge by class.
- Evaluate facilities and labs: Visit campuses to assess studio quality, tech access, and exhibition opportunities.
- Review faculty experience: Look for instructors active in their fields with published or exhibited work.
- Check transfer options: For students starting at community colleges, confirm articulation agreements with four-year universities.
Emerging Art Disciplines and Career Paths in Phoenix
Graduates from Phoenix art schools enter dynamic career fields including graphic design, digital illustration, animation, and art therapy. With new investments in the city’s creative economy, roles in UX/UI design, public art management, and community curation have expanded significantly. Many schools, particularly ASU and Mesa Arts Center, partner with local galleries and cultural institutions to offer internships bridging education and professional practice.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re launching a professional art career or nurturing lifelong creativity, Phoenix provides a uniquely supportive environment for artistic growth. These ten institutions combine academic rigor, affordability, and community connections—equipping students to thrive in one of the nation’s fastest-growing creative markets.
Frequently Asked Questions about Art Schools in Phoenix
Why should you study art in Phoenix?
You should study art in Phoenix because the city has a strong arts community, major museums, active gallery districts, and many schools that connect you with internships, exhibitions, and local creative jobs.
What types of art programs can you find in Phoenix?
You can find degree programs in fine arts, graphic design, digital media, and visual communication, as well as non-credit classes and workshops in drawing, painting, ceramics, glassblowing, photography, and more.
Which Phoenix art schools are best for affordable study paths?
You may want to look at Phoenix College and the Maricopa Community Colleges for low in-state tuition and clear transfer paths to four-year universities like Arizona State University.
Where can you study art in Phoenix without pursuing a full degree?
You can take stand-alone art classes and workshops at places like Scottsdale Artists’ School, Shemer Art Center, Mesa Arts Center, and Phoenix Center for the Arts if you want skills and portfolio growth without a full degree.
What careers can you pursue after studying art in Phoenix?
After studying art in Phoenix, you can pursue careers in graphic design, illustration, animation, UX and UI design, gallery work, public art projects, teaching, and community arts programs.
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