2024 Best Colleges for Art in the Los Angeles Area

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  4,036 reviews

Freshman: I like the diverse, really friendly community, thoughtful curriculum, experienced teachers, and good campus life. I feel that the community is supportive and that I have many avenues to learn, change and grow here. The people are really nice! What I would like to see changed is a better work environment for the students and staff, more mediated spaces for discussions on difficult topics, and a better-organized structure for knowing what opportunities I have to contribute to the community or make the most of my educational experience.... Read 4,036 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  5,583 reviews

Alum: It was amazing! I came to UCLA as a 3rd year transfer student meaning I had more perks than some of those who came in as freshmen. The housing I did off-campus apartment dorms which was amazing. They are like luxury apartments with plenty of space for roommates with open kitchens and fully furnished. The campus has a strong sense of community and it's easy to find friends and people you can connect with both in and out of your majors and initial interests. The college town Westwood is built against Beverly Hills and close to Rhodeo Drive, meaning it's not uncommon to spot a celebrity here and there. The local theaters host recarpets and UCLA students are often given entry to the premiers. the professors in my major (Art History) were some of the kindest and most interesting people I will have the pleasure to meet. My only issue is the workload, if you get overwhelmed easily, it's not the school for you. The quarter system is a monster for any major.... Read 5,583 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Valencia, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  289 reviews

Freshman: Enrollment has been great, admissions office has been super helpful. Amazing experience so far! The courses are condensed and they offer certifications!... Read 289 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $53,916

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  342 reviews

Sophomore: ArtCenter Is a great school to network with other passionate and talented artists at different skill level and backgrounds. The best part would definitely be it's students I got to meet, the curriculum of each subject wouldn't be nearly as effective without being in a close knit students of around 15 students per class. The change I stand behind for the benefit of all students that attend and will attend this college is the equal opportunity of enrollment between each course. Most classes are often waitlisted, and some courses are just generally better than others. Being part of the school should mean everyone's quality and room for education is prioritized. Paying the tuition we do now should already justify that.... Read 342 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $50,420

• SAT range —

• Laguna Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  216 reviews

Freshman: I will say that as a Game Art major this is exactly where I want to be. There is no other program in the nation that gets you up close and personal with current industry professionals like the one here at LCAD. It's insane to say but as a freshman I am confident in thinking I've met with more pros and AAA recruiters than most seniors at competing universities because of specialized courses here at LCAD. If you're a prospective freshman hoping to major in game developmental studies, PLEASE consider this school if you have the funds/aid to do so! However, this doesn't mean that the school is perfect. There is no cafeteria (so no meal plans), and the student housing is absolutely abysmal. You would definitely need some major aid if you don't come from an insanely rich family (which most students are), and sometimes the environment can be a little hostile towards students from low-income families- unfortunately I think that's normal for So Cal.... Read 216 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $40,669

• SAT range —

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  4,882 reviews

Alum: I loved my experience at CSULB. I did get wait listed from the dorms during my freshman year, so I would like to see some more housing options for freshmen who aren't local to the area. However, the school did add another dorm building this last year, so that is nice to see that they are addressing the issue. I joined Greek life for 2 years and met some life long friends who are kind and down-to-earth. I have great relationships with a few of my psychology professors and I loved my experience working on campus as a research assistant and a teaching assistant. I think that the psychology program was pretty enriching and I feel that CSULB prepared me to tackle graduate school. Another thing that I would change would be the parking situation. If it were possible, I would love to see another parking structure to be constructed possibly near the library. Overall, CSULB is a great school for a phenomenal cost!... Read 4,882 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  4,267 reviews

Alum: UCI boasts a stunning campus with modern architecture nestled in a beautifully landscaped environment. The layout is convenient, making it easy to navigate between classes, dorms, and recreational facilities. The abundance of green spaces and outdoor seating areas fosters a sense of community and relaxation. UCI's dining options are diverse and cater to a range of dietary preferences. From international cuisines to local favorites, there's something for everyone. The campus boasts numerous dining halls, cafes, and food trucks, ensuring that students never go hungry. The quality of food is generally good. Located in the heart of Orange County, UCI benefits from its proximity to vibrant cities like Irvine, Newport Beach, and Anaheim. Students have access to a wide range of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, shopping centers, and outdoor activities. Public transportation options make it easy to explore the surrounding area, although traffic can be a challenge at times.... Read 4,267 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  1,752 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Loyola Marymount University this year has been not only different, challenging, and difficult -- but also engaging, exciting, and very eye opening to me. I am from Texas, so a completely different state was something I knew I'd be scared and hesitant to do. However, upon moving into my housing, and getting to know the people here, I've felt more at home each and every day time passes by. The academics, especially me being a Chemistry major, are difficult, but not impossible. The professors here are very engaging with us as students and truly want us to strive to reach our goals -- they want the best for us, and they push alongside us for it. I admire each and every person at my school for their talents. I, though, would like to see change towards being more involved with the community, specifically towards helping those that are in a rough area in their life and are struggling. The community is so lively, so seeing it apply that to those struggling would be amazing.... Read 1,752 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $40,180

• SAT range 1250-1420

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  509 reviews

Sophomore: Like everything, there are ups and downs and days where I wish I were back home with my dogs, but I love Occidental College, and I've had such a great experience so far. I am only a sophomore and have already taken a wide diversity of courses with phenomenal professors, met incredible friends, and have had many opportunities to help professors with their research. I have an environmental science concentration with my major and have worked in my biology professor's lab since the first semester of my first year! Being at Oxy, a small school, enables me to build a great network of mentors and participate in undergraduate research throughout the school year and independent paid research over the summer. Ultimately, I have loved the experiences of being at Oxy and being able to take a comprehensive arrangement of courses and do stem research.... Read 509 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $43,047

• SAT range 1340-1490

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  648 reviews

Alum: Pitzer in many ways is heaven to me... though perhaps that is just the effect of moving to California as an east-coaster. But really, going to Pitzer was quite a bit like going to the school from Zoey 101. The students are creative, thoughtful, attractive, and well-connected (i.e. Rich AF) and the professors are lovable, wacky, and receptive to bold ideas (and also often independently wealthy for some reason). Cool architecture on campus and the dorms are brilliant in form and function. Proximity to LA, Joshua Tree, San Diego, etc. Apparently the administration is weak, but honestly who cares? And yes, the academic standards are insanely lenient (remember: trust fund dummies are this school's bread and butter). My solution: just take a class at Pomona, CMC, or Harvey Mudd. I did about half of my classes at Pomona to feel properly educated. The drawback to this method is that off-campus professors may not treat you as a priority. Oh well. If you're in Claremont--count yourself lucky.... Read 648 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $19,153

• SAT range 1300-1450

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  476 reviews

Alum: Scripps was a fantastic place to go to college. The professors love teaching and are very keen on helping you truly learn and understand the material. In addition, you have the resources of the five other colleges, so Scripps doesn't suffer from being too small. Student life at Scripps is amazing. The friendships that form are close and the school provides an amazing living environment. It may not be a big party school (which many people love), but again, it's part of a consortium. Students can take advantage of social events and parties across the campuses and come back to any amazing place to live.... Read 476 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $44,770

• SAT range 1380-1520

• La Mirada, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  2,301 reviews

Alum: There is no place quite like Biola. It is beautiful, peaceful and very safe. The professors and your peers genuinely care for your wellbeing. Biola faces issues head on through discussion and open dialogue. Diversity and free thinking are encouraged by professors and classes are so engaging. The only negative experience I have had is with admissions councillors not knowing what classes I really need to take. I recommend speaking with the head councilors every time. They are very willing to speak with you and really know what they are talking about. The food here is good most days but just okay sometimes.... Read 2,301 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $29,123

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,316 reviews

Graduate Student: I attended Cal State Fullerton from 1997 to 2005 as an undergraduate student. While there, I earned two Bachelor of Arts degrees in Afro Ethnic Studies and Studio Art. I am returning to pursue a Master's degree in Information Design and Technology. Since my previous time at the university, online learning has become a popular option, and it has taken me some time to become familiar with it. However, I am starting to appreciate its flexibility, primarily since I work and study simultaneously. Overall, I am proud to be a Titan and feel that CSUF has been an excellent place to grow in my field. Once a Titan, always a Titan!... Read 5,316 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $4,939

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Burbank, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  478 reviews

Alum: Whether pursuing a degree in architecture, business, design, or liberal arts, students can expect to receive a top-notch education that prepares them for a fulfilling career in their chosen field.... Read 478 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $32,293

• SAT range 940-1220

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  650 reviews

Freshman: The school was the first one where I immediately felt very comfortable with myself and others. I had toured some others and while they weren't all bad there certainly were schools I liked Otis gave me a sense of belonging that I hadn't felt with the others, I spoke with one of the admissions councilors and she really did listen to me.it made me very excited to start my journey there.... Read 650 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $45,402

• SAT range 1130-1360

• Azusa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,791 reviews

Junior: My time at Azusa Pacific University was a transformative experience that shaped not only my academic and professional pursuits but also my personal growth and development. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I was greeted by a vibrant and welcoming community that quickly became my home away from home. One of the highlights of my experience at Azusa Pacific University was the opportunity to engage with passionate and dedicated faculty members who were not only experts in their fields but also invested in my success. Their guidance and mentorship challenged me to think critically, explore new ideas, and pursue excellence in all aspects of my academic journey.... Read 2,791 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $27,112

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Malibu, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,363 reviews

Other: I am yet to get to Pepperdine cause I was just accepted recently as a transfer student, but from my communication with my admissions counsellor was the best. Madam Brooke was just a lovely lady full of patience and guided me all the way. Considering that I'll be relocating from Kenya to Malibu, I hope to get the most out of Pepperdine because it is what encouraged me to apply. I love the serene environment and that they don't experience seasons hence more time at the beach and oh my do I love the beach! The religious aspect of Pepperdine also motivates me as I come from a religious background of being affiliated with the Church of Christ. I love that come this Fall, I'll be able to be in a warm and acceptable environment to continue with my studies. Over and over again I will always choose Pepperdine!... Read 1,363 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,945

• SAT range 1260-1440

• Camarillo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,111 reviews

Sophomore: I am surprised with how new the school is and how easy it is to traverse the campus. Although campus facilities may seem far, they are well-organized, unlike most college campuses. Classes are engaging and fun, most professors are also fun and make classes enjoyable. If you don't want to be part of the party scene this school has none of it; in short, there is no nightlife. If you are studious, like myself there is no issue when studying or focusing.... Read 1,111 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $14,493

• SAT range 850-1060

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  2,294 reviews

Freshman: Chapman University provides an extremely unique experience for its students, one that juxtaposes an educational and diverse atmosphere magnificently. The campus, being small in size, replicates an accepting community filled with people who want to meet others and further their education. Every student here dreams big and is pushed by their professors to unleash their full potential. Although friendly, each student is driven, with failure not being an option. I have been lucky enough to meet these kinds of students and build strong bonds where I feel comfortable. The Chapman community is extremely close to one another and wishes nothing but the best for everyone who attends. I especially adore the professors, who always remind me to apply myself to my studies and treat the class with utmost respect and fairness. There are no favorites, with the teaching ethic being a positive as well. The location is also a huge plus, displaying many great food options and places that hold events.... Read 2,294 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Northridge, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  5,078 reviews

Graduate Student: I thoroughly enjoyed my classes at CSUN. I appreciated how my professors always made themselves available to me and other students if we needed help or had questions about course material. They also would provide guidance in general about school and the career field as a whole. I was an off-campus student so I didn't experience social/dorm life. However, there were always events going on while I was on-campus. I did join an intramural soccer team and that was a lot of fun! Also loved the gym facilities!... Read 5,078 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Redlands, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  931 reviews

Freshman: Overall, I am quite pleased with my experience here. I had the opportunity to participate in the Summer Bridge Program, which allowed me to spend a week at the college before the academic year began. During this time, I had the chance to experience college life firsthand, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made. The program made me feel welcomed and helped me to establish connections. By the time the school year started, I already knew people and felt comfortable. We spent a lot of time together, eating meals and hanging out, which helped ease any nerves I might have had otherwise. If it weren't for the Summer Bridge Program, I believe my experience would have been quite different, and I might have felt even more nervous coming into the school. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the program and for the positive impact it had on my college transition.... Read 931 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $21,578

• SAT range 1110-1280

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  3,700 reviews

Freshman: As an incoming freshman, you'll find UC Riverside to be an exceptional choice, particularly for its excellent STEM programs that feature cutting-edge curriculum and state-of-the-art labs. The professors here are not only experts in their fields but are also genuinely passionate about student success, making them accessible and supportive. You'll be joining a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels welcome, enhancing both personal and academic growth. The vibrant social life offers numerous clubs and activities catering to a wide array of interests, ensuring you'll never find yourself without something exciting to do. Additionally, the dorms are clean, well-maintained, and staffed by friendly personnel, making your campus living experience comfortable and enjoyable. UCR truly provides a holistic and fulfilling college experience—despite what the naysayers who’ve never even been here think. I am elated to be a Highlander and call UCR my home!... Read 3,700 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• San Bernardino, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,809 reviews

Junior: In all honestly, California State University San Bernardino is an amazing school! Of course no school can be perfect but this college sure does try to be. They offer various of clubs and support for all people of many different situations. They always market outside of classrooms and help out so much financially as well. I personally used to work for the university and was so surprised at how much they offer. The professors are so understanding as well and are always mindful of different opinions. The classes aren’t difficult either and even if you do get a class that is, our campus has so many different types of tutoring that is completely free. There’s also so much spots on campus that is dedicated to be a relaxing environment to sit and study and there’s also areas dedicated to let loose and have fun! Honestly this school is so amazing especially for the area it’s in. They take so many safety precautions including having a police station on campus and having many cameras all over!... Read 2,809 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $3,254

• SAT range 910-1080

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  2,903 reviews

Freshman: I am not a party person so I am enjoying it here! Outside of parties, there are plenty of things to do, and I love that the school tries to get students involved in college life! Riverside often feels a little sketchy, but I do not worry about such things on campus. I love how understanding the professors are; they are always willing to listen and give different opportunities for you to try your best. The food can get a bit repetitive but there are different options so it is always nice being able to grab something different. I love the people I have met here and I am enjoying my time here!... Read 2,903 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $23,494

• SAT range 990-1210

• Thousand Oaks, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,182 reviews

Freshman: Cal Lu is a very welcoming university, very apparent from its many events focused on important topics for young adults such as mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, financial aid, and job resume workshops. On top of that, their are many events on campus that make this school feel much more tight knit, such as their Foodie Friday and various clubs. Overall, though small, California Lutheran University's diversity, academic services, and culture are very profound and are a good choice for students looking for a very welcoming and inclusive whilst also being academically challenging.... Read 1,182 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $24,065

• SAT range 1090-1290