Top 10 Online Art Schools

In this article, we will be discussing the top 10 online art schools free and the best online art school in the world. While there are no set educational requirements for artists in general, most artists, regardless of their profession, prefer to pursue formal education at a community college or university. From associates to doctoral degrees, formal education for a career in the arts is available. Many artists enroll in a certified art program to improve their skills and advance their careers. Fine arts, graphic design, multimedia, and animation are examples of art education programs that are tailored to your personal interests. 

Most art or fine arts programs offer a concentration in your area of interest, such as crafts, design, multimedia, visual arts, photography, or motion graphics. Art as a profession necessitates a great deal of passion and creativity, so if you have this passion and love for the arts, it’s a great idea to pursue it. These are the best art schools in the world, along with their characteristics and job prospects.

Top 10 Online Art Schools

What Characterizes a Fantastic Art School?

The best art schools all over the world are those that teach students to think creatively across disciplines and provide them with the instruction and resources they need to reach their full artistic potential. These schools are regarded as the best because they are forward-thinking, well-respected, and have curricula that are constantly evolving to keep up with changes in the art world. Their alumni’s achievements have earned them international recognition. These schools offer a wide range of arts-related majors that usually lead to rewarding careers. 

They also have cutting-edge facilities where students can train and exercise their individual creativity, which could include wielding a massive metal sculpture or creating lifelike 3D animations and experiences. Most of these schools offer digital arts programs, as knowledge of design programs and other art-making software is required in the current artistic landscape for students interested in pursuing a related career. The best art schools also make a significant contribution to their students’ lives by providing excellent career counseling services to make the transition from student to professional as smooth as possible. 

Many even go the extra mile to give their students the opportunity to work at internships or in other professional development settings while still in school so that they can gain experience and be ready to start their careers. If you truly love art, you will be consistently inspired by interactions with some of the most interesting and creative people you will ever meet at a great art school, which will help you develop your passion and become a very competent professional.

What does an Arts School require?

Regardless of your area of personal interest, the majority of arts programs will require you to complete foundational classes in drawing, color theory, and design. You might also want to delve into the world of digital design software. You’ll also have the chance to create a professional portfolio based on the work you’ve done throughout your education. Advanced art degree programs can help you transition into another arts-related profession while also improving your skills. 

Visual and critical studies, design, and art education are examples of advanced art degree programs. A portfolio of your original work will be required for admission to these graduate degree programs. Painting, drawing, sculpture, crafts, and multimedia are among the many media found in the art world. Artists are typically self-employed individuals who work as art directors, in-house artists such as animators, illustrators, graphic designers, interaction designers, and fine artists. Fine artists may have their own studio where they create and exhibit their work in galleries or museums.

The World’s Finest Art Schools

The top art schools on this list will provide you with the necessary skills, methods, and techniques to further your talents while also assisting you in bringing your creativity to light. The following is a list of the best art schools in the world that will help you develop and strengthen your passion and creativity as an aspiring artist:

1. Berlin University of The Arts, Germany:

This university, founded in 1696, is Europe’s largest art school and one of Germany’s best, specializing in architecture, music, design, fine arts, and performing arts. This university provides high-quality education and is equipped with cutting-edge technology to keep up with the ever-changing world of art. Citizens and foreigners are both welcome to apply for admission to the school. If you want to pursue a career in the arts or develop your talents in the arts, you should consider applying to this school. You have the option of applying in person or online.

2. School of the Arts Institute of Chicago, USA:

In 1866, this online art school was founded. It is located in Chicago, Illinois, USA. It is regarded as one of the best art schools in the world and is known as “The Most Influential Art School.” It is home to the world’s third-largest museum, which houses a variety of art collections that will benefit your school experience. The School of the Arts Institute of Chicago uses an ‘interdisciplinary curriculum,’ which means you don’t have to stick to your major at school because you can use a variety of media to realize your vision.

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Any path you choose will teach and prepare you with a diverse set of skills and knowledge to help you succeed in your chosen field.

3. Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, London:

This school, also known as ‘Central Saint Martins (CSM)’, was founded in 1898 and is considered one of the best online art schools in the world. It is affiliated with the University of the Arts, London. Full-time foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses are available at CSM. It is well-designed and conducive to learning for students. CSM is known for bringing together a diverse range of creative practices for students to choose from based on their personal preferences, and whatever you choose, you will be taught how to succeed at it using the school’s cutting-edge facilities.

4. Bauhaus University, Germany:

Bauhaus University was founded in 1860 and is widely regarded as one of the world’s best online art schools. This school has produced a large number of well-known domestic and international alumni who have made significant contributions to the art world. Students can choose from a variety of art courses to pursue their majors and become masters in their field. They provide a diverse range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs with an international focus.

5. ArtCentre College of Design, USA:

ArtCentre was founded in 1930 and is ranked as one of the best art schools in the world. It is located in Pasadena, California. Students at this school receive both theoretical and practical training from practicing artists and designers who guide and teach them how to design and create their particular form of art.

6. Glasgow School of Art, Scotland:

Glasgow School of Art was founded in 1845 and is located in Glasgow, Scotland. It is the United Kingdom’s third-best online art school and one of the best in the world. It is well-known for its world-class expert research in all forms of art. The school has Scotland’s largest art and design community and has made significant contributions to the arts. Students at this school are taught how to bring creativity to life through research and the use of the school’s resources.

7. Bremen University of The Arts, Germany:

Bremen University, founded in 1873, is regarded as one of the best online art schools in the world, with a national and international reputation in all forms of art, as well as one of the most successful art institutions. The institute combines music and fine arts under one roof and offers a variety of degree programs in fine art, digital design, and music, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and master’s degrees.

8. Braunschweig University of Arts, Germany:

This school, which was founded in 1952, is Germany’s second-largest art college and one of the best in the world. It focuses on the arts and is geared toward awarding doctoral and professional degrees internationally. In undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs, the school offers a wide range of art courses. Students at the school also have access to the school’s advanced laboratories and workshops.

9. Pratt Institute, USA:

Pratt Institute, located in New York City, was founded in 1887. It is regarded as a multicultural epicenter for design, culture, the arts, and business. The school uses an interdisciplinary curriculum to encourage collaborative and creative design thinking strategies. The school provides state-of-the-art facilities for its students. In addition, Pratt Institute offers undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in architecture, art, design, and liberal arts and science.

10. Central Academy of Fine Arts, China:

The Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA), based in Beijing, China, was founded in 1918. It is managed by China’s Ministry of Education and is regarded as China’s most prestigious and renowned art institution, as well as one of the world’s best art schools. Students are taught to think creatively and competently in order to become professionals in any field they choose. The school has a museum with valuable collections and thousands of Chinese painting scrolls dating back to the Ming dynasty, which can provide students with inspiration and experience.

Why Should You Go to an Online Art School?

An online art school could be a good place to start if you’re an aspiring artist. At art school, you will have to choose from a variety of art majors such as animation, graphic design, painting, photography, and sculpture, among others. Members of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design (AICAD) offer a curriculum that includes full liberal arts and science requirements in addition to art classes. While some artistic careers do not require a formal degree, this does not mean that the time spent earning one is in vain. 

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Art schools provide a wealth of benefits to future career artists, even if they already possess some of the necessary skills. Some of the most compelling reasons to consider enrolling in a top online art school include:

  1. Learning from experienced art professors: The majority of your art professors will be practicing artists with relevant experience. These professors can assist students in honing their skills and avoiding some of the common problems that young artists face in the field.
  2. Students at art schools have the opportunity to be mentored by their professors as well as a large network of school alumni, who can help them identify their strengths and weaknesses as well as learn how to market their skills.
  3. Art schools provide a structured environment in which students can stay motivated. These skills can take years to learn on your own, but art schools provide an environment where students can learn much more quickly.
  4. Students have access to cutting-edge equipment that they would not be able to obtain on their own, allowing them to use it throughout their academic careers.
  5. Studio space: There are spaces for students to create their artworks all over campus, regardless of the type of art. Students may have individual studios as well as group studio areas at art schools, allowing them to focus on their work.
  6. Artists benefit from being surrounded by other artists who share their interests in order to stay motivated. Students at art schools have the advantage of being surrounded by people who are passionate about their craft, which allows for the exchange of ideas, constructive criticism, and a strong sense of community among classmates.
  7. Internship and job opportunities: When hiring, most professional artists, corporate art departments, and art-related organizations look for art students. Many art schools have career centers where students can get help finding work after graduation.
  8. Learn other useful skills: Art students not only learn about art, but they also learn about marketing their skills, pricing their work, business management, public speaking, and even writing skills. These abilities are also extremely beneficial in the workplace.

Other

1. Stuttgart State Academy of Art and Design, Germany:

It was founded in 1761 and is one of the oldest art schools in the world. It has long contributed to the art world, earning them global recognition as one of the largest online art schools in Germany and the world. The school has over thirty state-of-the-art workshops where students are given the opportunity to implement their ideas and concepts using analog and digital techniques while also receiving technical, practical, and job-specific knowledge.

2. ECAL, Switzerland:

The Ecole Cantonale d’Art de Lausanne (ECAL) is a Swiss art school that has earned a place among the world’s best art schools for its excellence in art projects, innovations, and collaborations. Fine arts, Graphic design, Industrial design, Cinema, Photography and Media, and Interaction design are among the six Bachelor’s degree programs offered by the school. Students can express their creativity and reach their full potential at the school, which has world-class research facilities.

3. ArtEZ University of the Arts, The Netherlands:

This art school offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in music, design, fine arts, fashion, theatre, creative writing, architecture and interior design, and dance. ArtEZ University prepares students for careers that rely heavily on art, knowledge, and creativity.

5. California Institute of the Arts, USA:

Walt Disney founded the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) in 1961, and it has since earned a reputation as one of the best online art schools in the world for its excellence and contributions to the art world. The school caters to students interested in pursuing careers in both visual and performing arts.

6. Savannah College of Art & Design

The Savannah College of Art & Design is a non-profit institution that now provides students from all over the world with the opportunity to further their artistic knowledge and understanding. SCAD, or Savannah College of Art and Design, has four physical campuses: two in Georgia (Atlanta and Savannah) and two abroad (Hong Kong and Lacoste, France). They do, however, have a world-class online art school with a variety of high-quality art and design degrees. Savannah University offers online art degrees up to the master’s level. 

7. Liberty University

Since 1971, Liberty University, a Christian-based college, has been educating professionals in a variety of fields. Its mission is to assist people in obtaining a degree in as little time as possible. If you meet certain admission requirements, they teach courses from a Christian perspective and do not require standardized testing. Military service members, including active duty and retired personnel, as well as their spouses, are eligible for tuition discounts. Tuition assistance programs are also available at Liberty University for a variety of students. In fact, they claim that 87 percent of their online art school students receive financial aid in some form.

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8. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University, or SNHU, was established in 1932 and now has over 3,000 students on campus. The private, non-profit institution, on the other hand, now has over 80,000 online students, making it one of the country’s largest. They work to make education affordable and accessible to a wide range of people. We’ve given them our Best Buy designation as well as recognition as one of the best online business schools because they’ve been so successful in this mission. This prestigious institution offers a variety of online programs, including over 200 career-focused college degree programs. 

9. Full Sail University

Full Sail University, based in Winter Park, Florida, offers 78 different degree programs. They are one of the top online art colleges in the country, specializing in training the next generation of leaders in entertainment, media, arts, and technology. Full Sail University began as an audio recording workshop in 1979 but soon realized that its project-based education model could be applied to a variety of fields, including filmmaking and art. It offers cutting-edge education that fosters creative thinking while also preparing students for real-world careers. It brings together creativity, business principles, and technical skills to develop leaders in a variety of fields.

10. Concordia College – Master of Science in Digital Media

Concordia College, based in Bronxville, New York, offers one of the best master’s degrees in digital media. They’ve created a program that allows artists to broaden their horizons and become more effective designers of memorable designs. This master’s degree program is designed for working artists who want to improve their technical skills while also broadening their artistic knowledge. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college as well as a student portfolio. Digital Video Production, Media Psychology, and Graphic Design for Digital Media are among the courses offered.

What Are the Job Prospects After Graduating from An Online Art School?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for craft and fine artists increased by 0% in 2019. During the decade, multimedia artists and animators may see a 4% increase in employment, while graphic designers may see a 4% decrease in employment. Multimedia artists and animators made an average of $77,700 per year, graphic designers made $53,380 per year, and crafts and fine artists made $49,120 per year.

Conclusion

While formal education is not required to become an artist, it is critical to becoming a professional in your field of study in order to stay ahead of the competition. As a professional artist, you can easily contribute to the art world, travel to places you never imagined, and earn a name and money. The art schools listed above, each with its own set of benefits, will help you develop as an artist and launch your professional career as one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are grades important in art school?

In general, art schools are unconcerned about grades, but a strong portfolio is required. Grades are frequently used to distinguish between two applicants with equal artistic ability.

Do the majority of artists attend art school?

Only about 12% of the 500 most successful American artists were self-taught, according to an Artnet study, while the rest had bachelor’s and master’s degrees from various art schools.

Is there an art program at Harvard?

Painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture, ceramics, photography, and filmmaking are all taught in our Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies, which also has studios and exhibition spaces.

Is it possible to make a living as an artist?

Despite popular belief, working as an artist–a true fingers-in-the-paint kind of artist–is still a viable career option today. Because of the recession and low unemployment rate, many Americans have no choice but to leave traditional 9-5 jobs and pursue alternative career paths.

Is it worthwhile to attend art school?

Despite the negative perceptions of art majors, an art degree can be an excellent way to develop and refine the studio skills needed to pursue a career as a professional artist. Students can learn relevant tools and surround themselves with like-minded people thanks to the program’s environment and length.

Which is better, Parsons or Pratt?

Both Parsons and Pratt are fantastic schools. Pratt is more “architectura” in that the program appears to be more rooted in architecture than Parsons, which appears to be more rooted in art and cross-disciplinary notions.

Is Pratt an excellent art school?

In 2021, QS ranked Pratt Institute as one of the Top 10 Art and Design Colleges in the World. Pratt Institute has been ranked #8 out of 220 US and international art and design colleges in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021.

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