Top Arts Schools in Kansas: Best Colleges & Universities for Creative Arts
Kansas is home to exceptional arts programs that provide students with world-class training in visual arts, performing arts, music, theater, and digital media. Whether you’re an aspiring painter, actor, musician, filmmaker, or designer, the best arts schools in Kansas offer state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and strong industry connections to help you thrive in a competitive creative field.
This guide highlights the top colleges and universities for the arts in Kansas, featuring detailed program descriptions, live links to each school’s website, and direct links to scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
Top Arts Schools in Kansas
University of Kansas – School of the Arts & School of Music
Location: Lawrence, KS
The University of Kansas (KU) is one of the top arts schools in the Midwest, offering exceptional programs in fine arts, theater, music, and film. Students benefit from world-class facilities, including the Spencer Museum of Art, KU Theatre, and Lied Center for Performing Arts. KU’s strong industry connections provide internship and career opportunities in film, music production, and performing arts.
Key Arts Programs:
- Visual Art (Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Ceramics, Textiles, Digital Arts)
- Graphic Design & Illustration
- Theatre Performance & Theatre Design
- Film & Media Studies (Cinematography, Screenwriting, Animation)
- Music (Composition, Jazz Studies, Music Therapy, Opera, Instrumental Performance)
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KU Financial Aid & Scholarships
Kansas State University – School of Music, Theatre, and Dance & Department of Art
Location: Manhattan, KS
Kansas State University (K-State) is known for its high-quality arts education, featuring top-ranked programs in theater, music, and studio arts. The school provides cutting-edge technology, professional production opportunities, and a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration.
Key Arts Programs:
- Studio Art (Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Ceramics, Sculpture)
- Photography & Digital Media
- Graphic Design & Visual Communication
- Theatre Arts (Performance, Directing, Stage Management, Technical Theatre)
- Music Performance & Music Education
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K-State Financial Aid & Scholarships
Wichita State University – College of Fine Arts
Location: Wichita, KS
Wichita State University (WSU) has a prestigious fine arts program with strong industry ties, professional internship opportunities, and state-of-the-art performance venues. The university’s School of Art, Design, and Creative Industries focuses on career readiness for artists, designers, and performers.
Key Arts Programs:
- Fine Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Printmaking, Ceramics)
- Media Arts (Animation, Game Design, Film & Video Production, Sound Design)
- Graphic Design & Visual Communications
- Music (Instrumental, Vocal, Composition, Music Theatre)
- Theatre & Dance (Acting, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre, Ballet, Jazz Dance)
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WSU Financial Aid & Scholarships
Emporia State University – Department of Art + Design & Department of Music
Location: Emporia, KS
Emporia State University offers comprehensive arts programs with a focus on hands-on learning and industry connections. The Eppink and Gilson Art Galleries provide students with professional exhibition opportunities.
Key Arts Programs:
- Graphic Design & Multimedia Arts
- Studio Arts (Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking)
- Photography & Digital Imaging
- Music Performance & Music Education
- Theatre Arts (Performance, Directing, Stage Production)
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ESU Financial Aid & Scholarships
Pittsburg State University – Department of Art & Music Department
Location: Pittsburg, KS
Pittsburg State University (PSU) is known for affordable, high-quality arts education with modern facilities and a strong emphasis on hands-on training. The university’s music and theatre programs are highly regarded in the region.
Key Arts Programs:
- Visual Arts (Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Ceramics)
- Graphic Design & Digital Art
- Music Performance & Music Technology
- Theatre & Acting for Stage and Screen
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PSU Financial Aid & Scholarships
Washburn University – Department of Theatre, Department of Art, and School of Music
Location: Topeka, KS
Washburn University offers diverse and innovative arts programs, providing students with individualized instruction and real-world experience through internships, performances, and gallery exhibitions.
Key Arts Programs:
- Visual Arts (Painting, Printmaking, Photography, Ceramics, Sculpture)
- Theatre Arts (Performance, Playwriting, Technical Theatre)
- Music Performance & Music Business
- Graphic Design & Multimedia Arts
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Washburn University Financial Aid & Scholarships
Baker University – Department of Music and Theatre & Art Department
Location: Baldwin City, KS
Baker University has small class sizes and a personalized approach to arts education. The school emphasizes professional development, internships, and performance opportunities.
Key Arts Programs:
- Visual Arts & Digital Media
- Theatre Performance & Theatre Design
- Music Education & Music Composition
- Graphic Design & Creative Arts
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Baker University Financial Aid & Scholarships
Fort Hays State University – Department of Art and Design & Music and Theatre Department
Location: Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is known for affordable tuition and high-quality arts programs that emphasize creative exploration and career preparation. The school has modern facilities, professional studios, and strong industry connections.
Key Arts Programs:
- Graphic Design & Digital Media
- Studio Arts (Painting, Drawing, Ceramics, Printmaking, Sculpture)
- Music (Instrumental, Vocal, Composition, Sound Design)
- Theatre Arts & Performance
Visit Fort Hays State University
FHSU Financial Aid & Scholarships
Why Choose an Arts School in Kansas?
- Affordable, High-Quality Education – Kansas arts schools offer top-tier training at an affordable cost.
- Industry Connections & Internship Opportunities – Schools partner with museums, theaters, production companies, and design firms for student success.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities – Many programs feature professional studios, performance spaces, and digital labs.
- Scholarship & Financial Aid Availability – Many schools provide generous scholarships and financial aid to help students pursue their passion.
Conclusion
Kansas offers some of the best arts schools in the region, providing students with exceptional training, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in fine arts, music, theater, digital media, or design, these top Kansas colleges and universities can help you build a successful career in the arts.
With this guide, you are well on your way to finding the right college or university in Kansas to achieve all of your academic goals!
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