2026 Most Affordable Online Art Degrees
Discover the most affordable online bachelor's degrees in art and design from our list below, ranked by tuition that has been manually verified by the OnlineU research team.
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All of the affordable online art degrees on our list are from institutionally accredited schools. We ordered the list of bachelor's degrees according to the lowest tuition.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of Florida's online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Arts and Sciences has the lowest in-state tuition of $3,357/year.
- Affordable online art degrees exist well below the price typically associated with creative fields, with several public universities offering in-state tuition under $10,000 per year.
- Tuition parity is common among private and online-focused institutions, including SNHU Online, Liberty, Bellevue, and DeVry, giving distance learners predictable pricing regardless of residency.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Art Degrees
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | $3,357 | $15,000 | 91% | $45,481 | |
| The University of Montana | $6,408 | $20,568 | 88% | $24,639 | |
| Thomas Edison State University | $7,044 | $9,122 | 63% | N/A | |
| SUNY Empire State University | $8,850 | $10,590 | 59% | $51,084 | |
| University of Iowa | $9,565 | $31,653 | 94% | $45,645 | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | $10,260 | $10,260 | 62% | $49,885 | |
| Liberty University | $11,700 | $11,700 | 57% | $45,177 | |
| Bellevue University | $13,770 | $13,770 | 67% | $48,642 | |
| DeVry University | $15,420 | $15,420 | 59% | N/A | |
| Pennsylvania State University - World Campus | $15,510 | $15,510 | 33% | N/A | |
| Lindenwood University | $15,750 | $15,750 | 91% | N/A | |
| University of Arizona | $15,750 | $15,750 | 97% | $36,573 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | $17,400 | $17,400 | 90% | $53,244 | |
| Maharishi International University | $18,000 | $18,000 | 67% | N/A |
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Arts and Sciences: $112/credit
Why we like them: UF’s online art degree is #1 because it costs $3,357 in yearly tuition for in-state students, giving you an accessible path to an online art degree without inflating your budget. This online BADAS crosses arts, communications, and computer science, blending design, animation, programming, and game development into a single, integrated degree rather than siloed tracks. We want to note that admission into the core of the program requires a portfolio review, signaling selectivity.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Florida are overwhelmingly favorable, driven by strong ratings and broad recommendations. Students consistently praise rigorous academics, respected faculty, abundant clubs, research, internships, and a powerful alumni network that helps with jobs and graduate school. Many say the large-campus setting offers unmatched school spirit, sports culture, diversity, and a true college-town atmosphere. Common frustrations center on large lecture classes, bureaucracy, inconsistent advising, weak financial aid, limited parking, and uneven administrative communication, especially for online or transfer processes. Several reviews also note that success often depends on being proactive in seeking mentorship, career resources, and hands-on experience.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 1,517 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $45,481
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 97%
Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts: $3,204/semester
Why we like them: UM's online media arts degree has stackable options, including BFA tracks and certificates in Game Design and Interactive Media, Sound Design and Media Technology, Creative Coding, Sonic Arts, Documentary Film, Web Design, Digital and Graphic Design, Photography and Digital Imaging, New West: Art and Environment, and Ceramics. You benefit from a cross-college collaboration model that embeds you with journalism for film, the School of Music for sound, and fine arts faculty for animation fundamentals.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of The University of Montana are broadly favorable, driven by strong teaching, approachable faculty, and a campus culture that feels supportive, personal, and community-oriented. Many reviewers praise hands-on learning, practical field or clinical experiences, small classes, and professors who remain accessible outside class. Missoula’s scenic setting, outdoor recreation, and lively atmosphere are recurring highlights that shape the overall experience as much as academics. Concerns center on cost, inconsistent advising, limited funding, scheduling or restructuring hiccups, and administrative disorganization, especially around residency rules and financial aid. A few reviews also raise serious concerns about inclusion, favoritism, and unequal treatment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 804 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $24,639
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 76%
Bachelor of Arts in Art: $3,522/semester
Why we like them: TESU's online bachelor's in art blends classical and folk art traditions from around the world. You work across painting, sculpture, and new media, and you're required to analyze and interpret artworks, with the goal of communicating effectively in writing and speech contexts. We think this dual emphasis is very practical for critiques, curatorial statements, and client briefs.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Thomas Edison State University as a strong fit for highly self-directed adults, especially those bringing substantial transfer, military, exam, or prior-learning credits. Students consistently praise the ability to finish quickly, lower total cost, and keep working while studying. Many say the workload is rigorous, writing-heavy, and better suited to independent learners than anyone seeking frequent instruction. The sharpest criticisms target inconsistent mentoring, slow or absent grading, poor communication across departments, confusing fees, weak advising, outdated materials, and high-stakes exams with limited study guidance. Several also report frustrating proctoring, administrative runarounds, and uneven support in advanced clinical requirements.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 6,609 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Arts: $295/credit
Why we like them: At SUNY Empire, you choose between a B.A. and B.S. in Digital Media Arts, letting you tune the degree toward theory or technical depth. The curriculum embeds AI throughout and requires Ethics of Digital Art & Design, pushing you to interrogate authenticity, authorship, and the reliability of AI-generated content alongside history and theory of new media. A capstone anchored in your interests culminates in a substantial project or portfolio, creating an industry-facing deliverable.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray SUNY Empire State University as a flexible online option that works especially well for people balancing jobs, family, relocation, or military obligations. Many praise mentors, responsive professors, straightforward enrollment, transfer credit acceptance, and affordable tuition, noting meaningful one-on-one support, strong writing development, and practical coursework. Several also value independent study and personalized degree planning. Negative reviews focus on inconsistent mentor quality, slow or absent faculty communication, delayed grading, technology outages, weak teaching in self-directed courses, and administrative problems involving disability support, billing, transfer clarity, and degree approvals. Some also cite limited offerings and uneven academic standards.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 7,518 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $51,084
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 29%
- Retention Rate: 46%
Bachelor of Liberal Studies - Expression in Writing and Arts: $4,783/semester
Why we like them: UI’s Expression in Writing and Arts track blends creative practice with cultural studies and applied professional skills. You move from advanced creative writing craft courses — such as The Sentence: Strategies for Writing, The Art of Revision, and Novel Writing — to media, art, and culture offerings like Transforming Media: From Telegraph to Internet, War and Film, and Tasting Art: How the Senses Enhance Our Experience of Art.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray the University of Iowa as a strong overall experience marked by supportive professors, practical coursework, and meaningful career preparation. Many describe accessible faculty, small or relationship-driven classes within a large university, and strong networking through guest speakers, alumni, internships, research, and campus jobs. Iowa City is frequently praised as safe, walkable, affordable, and deeply connected to campus life. Students also value flexibility, diverse opportunities, and hands-on learning. Criticisms center on uneven advising, limited scholarships or financial aid, some unengaged faculty, restricted course options in certain areas, language barriers with some instructors, and a social scene that can feel overly party-focused.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 793 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $45,645
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 73%
- Retention Rate: 89%
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts - Web Design: $342/credit
Why we like them: At SNHU, you can elect up to six AIGA Certificates for Creatives alongside your coursework, giving you stackable, third-party credentials in areas such as project management, client relations, and digital marketing. We also like that you are required to design and launch a self‑promotional website in an advanced course using a content management system, while newly revised web‑design courses extend into social media design and integrated digital campaigns.
1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Art & Design Degrees
I’ve had a great experience with the Southern New Hampshire Online and would definitely recommend it to others considering an online program. One of the biggest strengths, in my opinion, is the staff. From the beginning, they’ve been consistently helpful,... Read More
Another standout aspect is the strong online community. Through the student platforms, it’s surprisingly easy to connect with classmates, participate in discussions, and feel engaged in the learning process. Even though the program is fully online, I never felt isolated. There’s a real sense of collaboration and support among students, which makes a big difference in staying motivated and involved.
The quality of education has also been very consistent throughout my experience. Courses are well-structured, expectations are clearly communicated, and the material feels relevant and thoughtfully designed. Professors do a great job of maintaining organization and providing clear instructions, which helps make the online format smooth and manageable.
Overall, my experience has been very positive. The combination of supportive staff, a strong virtual community, and consistent academic quality makes this program a reliable and rewarding choice for anyone looking to pursue their education online.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Southern New Hampshire University Online are sharply divided, though the volume of high ratings points to a largely favorable student narrative. Supporters consistently praise responsive advisors, approachable instructors, flexible scheduling, clear course layouts, transfer-credit acceptance, and comparatively affordable tuition. Many say the format works especially well for working adults, caregivers, military-affiliated learners, and others balancing complex schedules. Critics, however, describe serious frustrations with financial aid, withdrawal deadlines, transcript holds, billing disputes, and inconsistent advising. Another recurring complaint is that some courses feel heavily self-taught, overly writing-based, or too rubric-driven, with uneven instructor engagement and concerns about academic rigor or career payoff.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 160,747 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $49,885
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 60%
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design: $390/credit
Why we like them: Liberty's online graphic design arts program has a 30-hour practicum plus a 180-hour internship supervised by a degreed design professional, so you graduate with 210 hours of documented fieldwork you can cite with employers. You can transfer up to 75% of the degree, which we consider unusually generous for a BFA.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Liberty University are sharply divided, but the overall pattern leans positive because many students awarded high ratings for flexibility, affordability, and faith-based learning. Supporters praise the eight-week format, responsive professors, military and veteran discounts, transferable credit pathways, and rigorous reading and writing that fit work and family life. Many also value the explicit Christian worldview and say it deepened their faith or moral framework. Critics focus on inconsistent advising, slow or confusing financial aid, weak instructor involvement, and a self-teaching model. Repeated complaints also mention excessive biblical integration, hidden fees, rigid withdrawal rules, and limited practicum or career support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 39,156 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $45,177
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 79%
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design: $459/credit
Why we like them: Bellevue's online design curriculum is portfolio-first, where you build market-ready work in every stage and finish with a capstone that delivers both print and web portfolios. Here, you would progress through an integrated UX/UI and web sequence — Interactivity Basics, Web Page Design, and Website Development — so you gain user experience depth alongside branding, typography, and publication design.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Bellevue University are sharply divided, but lean positive overall because many reviewers gave high ratings for flexible online scheduling, career-relevant coursework, and professors who were responsive, demanding, and effective at building writing, critical thinking, and job readiness. Positive reviews often cite real-world simulations, practical assignments, supportive classmates, and programs that fit full-time work, military life, or family obligations. Negative reviews focus on operational breakdowns rather than academics: frequent advisor turnover, poor communication, financial aid errors, billing and transcript problems, confusing transfer-credit evaluations, and concerns about accreditation, employer recognition, or required general courses viewed as costly and disconnected from career goals.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 10,519 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $48,642
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 51%
Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Design and Development - Graphic and Multimedia Design: $514/credit
Why we like them: DVU compresses 122 credits into eight-week sessions for an accelerated 2-years-8-months timeline with year-round enrollment, giving you a faster, structured path than most BA design programs. Its Adobe certification alignment prepares you to pursue ACA exams in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, or Premiere Pro, so you build toward employer-recognized credentials as you complete courses. You also get to work hands-on with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a sharply divided experience shaped most by flexibility versus cost and support quality. Positive feedback centers on accelerated online scheduling, responsive professors and advisors, practical coursework, and the ability to balance school with work, parenting, military service, or other obligations. Several reviewers also reported promotions, salary gains, graduate-school admission, or quick employment after finishing. Negative reviews focus heavily on high tuition, confusing or inconsistent financial aid, poor communication across departments, transcript or billing disputes, and limited career placement. Many dissatisfied reviewers felt courses were overly self-taught, outdated, rushed into eight-week terms, or weakened by unhelpful instructors and nontransferable credits.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 29,861 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 38%
- Retention Rate: 66%
Bachelor of Design in Digital Multimedia Design: $7,755/semester
Why we like them: PSU’s online DMD stands out for its three-college design — Arts and Architecture, Information Sciences and Technology, and the Bellisario College of Communications — so you blend studio practice with HCDD, UX/UI, web development, and communications in one credential. We also like that you can chart your own customized pathways in a way that visualizes routes across 2D/3D, animation, UX, and coding.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a sharply divided online experience. Positive feedback emphasizes flexible scheduling for working adults, strong faculty engagement, responsive academic counseling, rigorous coursework, and thoughtfully designed materials that encourage independent learning rather than passive lectures. Several reviewers also valued meaningful peer interaction and the credibility of a well-known university name. Negative feedback centers on inconsistent instructional quality, limited professor access, weak advising, outdated course content and technology, excessive self-teaching, and frustrating group projects where inactive peers shifted the workload. A few reviewers also reported transfer-credit problems, confusing requirements, poor platform reliability, and classes that felt overpriced for the support provided.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 7,921 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 34%
- Retention Rate: 66%
Bachelor of Arts/Fine Arts in Art and Design: $525/credit
Why we like them: Lindenwood lets you choose a fully online BA or BFA with emphases in Digital Art, Graphic Design, or Photography, while also weaving Web and User Experience into the core. You gain embedded Adobe Certifications in Photoshop and Illustrator for degree credit as well. You are required to complete practical application through an Art and Design Firm course or internship, and you close with a portfolio review plus a capstone.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Lindenwood University are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and widespread recommendations. Students repeatedly praise small classes, accessible professors, and faculty who are knowledgeable, caring, and often bring real-world experience that improves career readiness. Flexible formats, evening schedules, accelerated terms, and multiple locations are valued by working adults, parents, transfer, online, and out-of-state learners. Students also mention a welcoming community, diverse peers, and meaningful hands-on learning. Criticisms center on inconsistent administration, slow communication, weak advising in some areas, uneven academic rigor across programs, high private-school costs, outdated or limited technology, and occasional concerns about housing, food, accessibility, and career support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 1,316 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 50%
- Retention Rate: 73%
Bachelor of Arts in Design Arts & Practices: $525/credit
Why we like them: UA's online art BA has a themed studio foundation — Mapping, Gaze, Surface, and Propaganda — delivered in intensive formats (including an eight-week module) that emphasize daily making, risk-taking, and portfolio-building. You progress through an interdisciplinary arc that merges graphic design, illustration, typography, web/device design, and animation with design history, cinema, and architecture, then synthesize it in a capstone tackling real issues such as social justice and the environment.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Arizona as a large, high-energy campus where many found strong professors, abundant clubs, and a deep sense of school spirit, especially around sports. Students often praised research access, internships, study abroad, tutoring, and faculty mentorship that translated into jobs, graduate school admission, and career confidence. Several said smaller departments or upper-level classes felt surprisingly personal despite the university’s size. Common drawbacks centered on uneven advising, disorganized registration or financial aid, rising tuition, and concerns about value for some fields. A few also cited party culture, limited diversity or support, weak career guidance outside select areas, and Tucson feeling either charming or too quiet.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 8,959 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $36,573
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 66%
- Retention Rate: 88%
Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and Sciences - Education: $580/credit
Why we like them: ASU frames this program as a first-of-a-kind BA that intentionally fuses media arts, technology, and education, giving you a design-meets-pedagogy toolkit that spans AI, VR, physical computing, and user experience. You can choose between a two-semester applied project for artistic technology development or a three-semester internship embedded in education settings such as museums, libraries, and community programs.
1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Art & Design Degrees
I believe the academics are great but the size of the school and student to teacher ratio can be very overwhelming. I like to connect with my teachers and it's almost impossible to do at asu.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Arizona State University Online trend positive, with students frequently praising flexible scheduling, a user-friendly portal, responsive support teams, and instructors who were knowledgeable, caring, and often effective in helping working adults, parents, military families, and transfer learners finish degrees. Several reviewers said the online format felt credible and comparable to in-person study, with strong advising, tutoring, and career resources when used proactively. Criticism centers on high tuition, extra fees, inconsistent advising, delayed responses from some faculty and counselors, uneven course quality, and accelerated 7.5-week terms that can feel compressed, self-taught, and poorly suited for math-heavy or technically demanding subjects.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 57,610 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $53,244
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 85%
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences: $9,000/semester
Why we like them: MIU differentiates this online BAAS through its Consciousness-Based education model, where you learn the Transcendental Meditation technique and take signature courses such as Transcendental Meditation, Physiology is Consciousness, Foundations of Physics and Consciousness, and Higher States of Consciousness. We also love how you can test-drive the online format with a three-week no-cost trial, and we view that policy as a rare risk-free entry point.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Maharishi International University as a highly distinctive experience that many found calm, supportive, and confidence-building, though quality appears uneven across departments. Positive reviewers praise friendly professors, stimulating discussions, a peaceful campus, and a low-stress environment that emphasizes learning over pressure. Several also highlight practical outcomes, including strong job prospects, plus appealing lifestyle features such as organic or vegan food and a safe, sustainable setting. Criticisms focus on weak instruction in at least one area, where reviewers describe video-based teaching, limited hands-on help, and poor course alignment with job-ready skills. Some also disliked Saturday classes and the quiet small-town atmosphere.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Undergraduate Online: 798 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 18%
- Retention Rate: 65%
What Can You Do With an Online Art or Design Degree?
Online bachelor's programs in art and design prepare art students for occupations that combine creativity with technological skills, many of which are highlighted in the Bureau of Labor Statistics' (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook. For example, graduates may become animators, with a median annual salary of $99,800, or digital designers, who earn a median annual salary of $95,380.
You can see how those stack up below; however, there are also jobs that don't require a bachelor's, like craft and fine artists, which the BLS describes as using "a variety of materials and techniques to create original works of art for sale and exhibition." While formal education is considered helpful for this type of artist, it's not a requirement in most cases. They make ~$56,260 per year.
Graphic design has also been a popular choice for many years, and currently the BLS reports that demand for graphic designers is expected to increase by 2% over the next decade, which is a little below the national average. On the other hand, the job market in web design, UX/UI design, 3D design, video gaming, and animation remains strong, with demand for several of these occupations projected to grow 8%-16%.
After gaining several years of experience, some designers move into management positions as art directors, where they guide the vision and direction of an organization's brand presentation. At this level, art directors earn a median annual salary of $111,040. According to the BLS, a bachelor's degree is often the only qualification for this role. And remember, we're dealing with median salaries, which means for art directors, for example, the lowest 10% of earners with this job title earn less than $61,060, while the highest 10% earned more than $211,410.
FAQs About Affordable Online Art and Design Degrees
Can You Go to Art School Online?
Very few schools offer online courses in the traditional visual arts, such as painting, drawing, and sculpture. However, many online schools have developed distance learning programs for creative fields that blend art with technology, including digital photography, graphic design, web design, animation, and video game design. Earning an online four-year degree in one of those subjects can help prepare you for a creative career, but if you're committed to pursuing a degree in the traditional arts, you should consider on-campus programs.
Art and Design Degree Quick Facts
- Average Credits: 120
- Average Duration: 4 years
If you're planning to pursue a creative field through online learning, you may want to focus on one of the technology-oriented arts. Based on data from ONET Online regarding well-paying, high-growth fields, a few of the most promising art and design subjects to study online include web design, video game design, and animation and 3D graphics.
What Do You Learn in an Online Art Degree?
An affordable online bachelor's in art & design blends traditional techniques with digital innovation, covering graphic design, illustration, and multimedia arts. An affordable online art school enhances artistic and technical skills through interactive projects and expert guidance that prepare you for diverse creative careers, all while staying within budget.
Art and design programs typically start with foundations in art and art history, progress through courses related to your area of specialization, and culminate in a capstone course designed to help you polish your professional portfolio of work. Some of the most popular online classes in art and design include the following:
- Digital Imaging: This graphic arts course will provide you with an essential understanding of how digitized art must be prepared for use in electronic media and in print. You will most likely learn to use the Adobe Creative Suite or similar software programs.
- Digital Photography: Although there are entire degree programs devoted to digital photography, design students are often required to take a summary course on the subject. Coursework will enable you to learn how to use a digital camera, how to create various light effects, and how to use photo editing software to enhance your images.
- Introduction to Web Design: Typically a hands-on, application-oriented course, you'll learn the basics of HTML, CSS, and possibly other languages and programs to build websites. Your technical skills will be enhanced with an understanding of appealing visual design and usability. (Of course, there are also online web design degrees if you are most interested in this subject.)
- Principles of Design: This fundamental course is included in nearly every art and design program. You'll learn to utilize the formal elements and principles of design, especially color, and you may be introduced to the basics of typography. Problem solving and decision making are important skills that art students develop through this course.
- 3D Graphics Basics: While gaining experience in using industry-standard software, you'll learn the fundamentals of creating 3D motion graphics. Hands-on projects will introduce you to the process of storyboarding and rendering graphic objects and animations.
Do Online Art and Design Students Qualify for Financial Aid and Scholarships?
Students who enroll in accredited, online degree programs in art, graphic art, and design may be eligible for financial aid. To begin the application process, students should complete and submit the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Once this form has been reviewed by representatives of both the federal government and the schools, the applicants will receive a letter that details the type and amount of financial aid being offered. If applying to multiple schools, the offers from each school may be the deciding factor as to which program the student will choose. If students have any questions about their financial aid offers, they should contact the financial aid representatives at the college(s) they have applied to.
The best offers include scholarships or grants, which may come from the federal government, the state government, or from the college itself. Unlike student loans, grant and scholarship money does not have to be repaid. Applicants who are offered a student loan should review the loan terms carefully. Federal student loans are generally preferred over private student loans, which typically feature higher interest rates and more stringent repayment plans.
Online art and design majors may want to consider applying for the following private scholarships and/or participating in these art competitions:
- Adobe Design Circle Scholarship: Awards up to $25,000 per academic year depending on need and merit, and open to all undergraduate art and design students.
- John F. and Anna Lee Stacey Scholarship Fund: Awards up to $5,000 for art majors.
- Scholastic Art and Writing Portfolio Awards: Awards of $10,000 and $1,000 to the artists with the prize-winning portfolios.
Is an Online Art Degree Worth The Cost?
The answer largely depends on your career goals and personal circumstances. A college degree is not required to thrive in some creative fields like fine arts and web design. Many talented individuals with artistic skills and drive have been successful without one, and that may turn out to be the best path for you. However, an undergraduate degree is strongly recommended for other fields, such as graphic art, animation, and game design, where most professionals hold degrees.
Furthermore, all of these occupations are highly competitive, and the technical skills and business acumen you gain from earning an online degree in art and design may give you a competitive edge. Online art degrees offer flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with work or other commitments. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for those who are self-motivated and disciplined. While success in the arts ultimately depends on your talent and dedication, an online degree can provide you with the structured learning and networking opportunities needed to excel in today's competitive job market.
A good place to start, if cost is your top concern, is our list of the most affordable online art bachelor's degrees above.
Student Reviews of Online Art & Design Programs
I’ve had a great experience with the Southern New Hampshire Online and would definitely recommend it to others considering an online program. One of the biggest strengths, in my opinion, is the staff. From the beginning, they’ve been consistently helpful, responsive, and genuinely supportive. Whether I had questions about coursework, scheduling, or general guidance, I always felt like there was someone available who truly wanted to help me succeed.
Another standout aspect is the strong online community.... Read More
The quality of education has also been very consistent throughout my experience. Courses are well-structured, expectations are clearly communicated, and the material feels relevant and thoughtfully designed. Professors do a great job of maintaining organization and providing clear instructions, which helps make the online format smooth and manageable.
Overall, my experience has been very positive. The combination of supportive staff, a strong virtual community, and consistent academic quality makes this program a reliable and rewarding choice for anyone looking to pursue their education online.
Review Date: 5/7/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I really enjoyed this program. I had fun in my classes and doing projects. This program promoted students creating a cohesive portfolio and gave them each their own gallery show. I worked hard and it paid off with this program. The program was probably my best decision.
Review Date: 1/14/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am currently enrolled and everyone has been extremely helpful. From the advisory department to admissions, everything has gone smooth, my teachers have been quite hands-on and respond when questioned with thoughtful answers. I haven't graduated yet but I can say that I am already quite happy with my choice. You get out what you put in, so if you work hard and study hard then you will earn yourself a good degree and education.
Review Date: 9/8/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Notre Dame's academics, tighter-knit community, and alumni network are what make this university so unique. I started Notre Dame as a shy freshman. When I graduated, I was more confident. Notre Dame's study abroad programs had me see the world. And the academics had me grow personally and professionally. What a college student may not realize at Notre Dame is how vast the alumni network is, and how a Notre Dame connection could help you far in the future. Lou Holtz's quote is true: "those who know... Read More
Review Date: 3/12/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As with any big university you get lost in a lot of classes - too big for the professors to care to know your name. But once you get deeper into your field they get weeded down and you get to know your professors well and students too! Everyone is very nice, laid back and understanding. CU often has a bad wrap for being a "party" school, but the truth is there are hundreds of highly intelligent people on campus. Variety is good :)
Review Date: 8/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Was told to take classes that (A)where not even part of my degree, or (B)classes that later be came not part of my degree. Still had to pay for them all, some multiple times with no reimbursement. School also tried to get me (a petite woman) to take an internship with a 'company' that was one guy working out of his basement. Constantly gave me the run around when i would try to ask for help. Tried to use me as a success story for their job placement stats when i later started working at an arts and... Read More
Review Date: 8/29/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Great instructors some of the best I have ever had. The team that helps guide you through classes and sign up are kind and very helpful. A big plus with where the main campus is, is the pure and natural beauty. If you are looking to extend your knowledge Lane is a great place to start!
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
There are many great things about Hunter. I like a lot of my classes, but the Accessibility office and the people who work there, the ones supposed to support students with accommodations, are unhelpful and rude. It has been disappointing working with the staff there. They have basically failed to support me at all. They make me feel that I am doing something wrong when I am not. They also fail to meet my accommodations. Sharing this review to warn off future students. Either avoid Hunter or be ready... Read More
Review Date: 3/21/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
There were a lot of classes I wanted to take that I didn't get to take because I didn't realize a C- and a "passing grade of a C or higher" were not in the same rank for the ATEC fundamentals course, and that prevented me from taking a lot of the classes I went to this school for until it was time for me to graduate; by then, it was too late. I think even if you get lucky and are able to take all the classes you want to take, half of the work of getting into the industry is making your own personal... Read More
Also, while I didn't make a lot of friends because I'm pretty introverted, if you end up going into the ATEC program, you'll be able to meet a lot of fantastic, talented people that bring a lot to the table. The school's pretty diverse, too—highly recommend for any nerds in the DFW area.
Review Date: 12/6/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, I really enjoy and recommend University of Michigan as a school. Campus life is amazing, the quality of academics is very high and challenging in a good way, and I see passion within staff, students and faculty at this school. However, for the Art and Design program specifically, I have mixed thoughts about the education. I personally enjoyed the classes and projects and did learn a lot about myself as an artist and what I wanted to pursue. But the program is set up to provide a general... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Within my department, my professors and other university staff went above and beyond to make sure that students succeed while in their classes and after graduation. CSUN's art department faculty are well connected to the industry and are very experienced in their fields. For my program in communication design (graphic design), the university had its own design agency so that students can gain real life experience before entering the workforce after graduation; I was one of those students. They prepare... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I really enjoyed the culture and atmosphere. There was a diverse population of students, especially with the foreign exchanged program. I had a good experience with most, if not all, of my professors and found the classes to have a lot of content within their coursework. There were also a lot of opportunities to take classes like electives that were fun but tied in with general requirements.
Review Date: 4/23/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Paying to go to this school is a lot like going to a fancy private salon to get your hair done. You expect the service to be exceptional and personable, and while it is the latter, service can barely be what you paid for. I went to this school for two years before going somewhere better. For one thing, it's literally in the middle of Over-Rhine. The first first minutes of freshman orientaion is spent on talk on avoid gunshots, your phone being stolen from your hands, pan handlers, and being killed.... Read More
Review Date: 1/7/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I believe the academics are great but the size of the school and student to teacher ratio can be very overwhelming. I like to connect with my teachers and it's almost impossible to do at asu.
Review Date: 6/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Full Sail is a great University just like all others. You will need to be an really driven to succeed in the entertainment industry. With a degree from Full Sail you will be able to get employed in both the private and federal sectors. Be sure you live in a state or city where there are plenty of jobs, and where the career development department can actually help you.
Review Date: 9/7/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
COD's instructors were excellent and helpful. The classes I took were challenging and I learned a lot. I have been to a few colleges prior to COD and this was one of the best undergraduate experiences I have had. Register was a breeze and it is easy to find assistance if you need it.
Review Date: 12/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I think the environment at Ramapo is really nice. The student body is diverse, excited, and involved in all sorts of campus life. Even though the school is considered a commuter school, there is plenty of campus life on the weekends, as long as you're willing to go outside your comfort zone. I was a student athlete, which definitely helped me have a positive experince. As far as academics go, it was fine. I learned a decent amount, but certain programs need a refresh of content or professors.
Review Date: 3/19/2026
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The art department was filled with just the most kind staff who genuinely cared about the students. They provided me with the best experience I could have asked for and even went beyond what was required of them as teachers in order to set me up for my career. I would love to recommend others here.
Review Date: 3/18/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Degree program only 32 hours. Had to take 90 hours of electives. Overall the return on investment has not been good. Met some cool people though and got to work on some cool projects. Degree program was excellent but I can't help but feel like I wasted a ton of time and money in gen ed classes
Review Date: 1/15/2026
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I feel that UNC has gone downhill quite a bit in the past few years and regret choosing it. They keep closing student resources but upping tuition, screwing over the students in the process. The community college in Greeley seems to use their money more wisely and support their students more.
Review Date: 10/3/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No