Top Arts Schools in Kentucky
Kentucky is home to a diverse and thriving arts education scene, offering excellent programs in visual arts, performing arts, music, and design. Whether you aspire to be a musician, actor, painter, or designer, Kentucky provides top-tier institutions with comprehensive degree programs, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities.
With a deep cultural heritage in bluegrass music, theater, and fine arts, Kentucky’s arts schools create an environment where tradition meets innovation. Students benefit from professional development opportunities, artistic communities, and financial aid resources to help them succeed in their creative careers.

Top Arts Schools in Kentucky
The best Arts Schools in Kentucky
University of Kentucky – College of Fine Arts
Program Highlights:
- Offers degrees in art, music, theater, and arts administration.
- Home to the Singletary Center for the Arts, providing performance and exhibition opportunities.
- Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary arts education.
- Professional partnerships with local arts organizations and theaters.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
University of Louisville – Hite Art Institute & School of Music
Program Highlights:
- Offers BFA and MFA programs in fine arts, graphic design, music, and theater.
- Home to the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts.
- Provides extensive internship opportunities with local art institutions.
- Focus on real-world experience through exhibitions and performances.
Visit University of Louisville
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Northern Kentucky University – School of the Arts
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive programs in theater, music, dance, and visual arts.
- Houses the Greaves Concert Hall and the NKU Art Galleries.
- Strong industry connections for internships and career opportunities.
- Emphasis on hands-on learning and community engagement.
Visit Northern Kentucky University
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Western Kentucky University – Department of Theatre & Dance & School of Music
Program Highlights:
- Offers specialized programs in acting, dance, design, music education, and performance.
- Hosts national and international touring performances.
- Provides scholarships and grants for arts students.
- State-of-the-art performance spaces and studios.
Visit Western Kentucky University
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Morehead State University – Department of Music, Theatre & Dance
Program Highlights:
- Programs in music performance, education, theater, and arts administration.
- Recognized for its renowned marching and symphonic bands.
- Emphasis on personalized instruction and small class sizes.
- Performance opportunities in regional and national competitions.
Visit Morehead State University
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Eastern Kentucky University – School of Music & Department of Art and Design
Program Highlights:
- Offers programs in visual arts, graphic design, music, and theater.
- Houses multiple galleries showcasing student and faculty work.
- Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration in the arts.
- Opportunities for internships and public exhibitions.
Visit Eastern Kentucky University
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Bellarmine University – Arts & Music Programs
Program Highlights:
- Specializes in music performance, theater arts, digital media, and design.
- Strong partnerships with the Louisville Orchestra and Kentucky Opera.
- State-of-the-art rehearsal and performance spaces.
- Small class sizes for individualized learning experiences.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Berea College – Art & Music Departments
Program Highlights:
- Offers tuition-free education for all students, reducing financial barriers.
- Focuses on traditional and contemporary fine arts and crafts.
- Houses the Doris Ulmann Galleries and historic arts studios.
- Provides experiential learning through campus-wide arts programs.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Murray State University – Department of Art & Design & School of Music
Program Highlights:
- Strong programs in painting, sculpture, graphic design, and music.
- Offers access to cutting-edge digital and traditional media studios.
- Opportunities for study abroad and artist-in-residence programs.
- Faculty with extensive industry experience in performing and visual arts.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information
Conclusion
Kentucky is an inspiring destination for students passionate about the arts. From renowned universities with world-class performance spaces to smaller institutions with unique artistic programs, students have a wealth of opportunities to develop their creative talents.
With strong ties to the arts community, financial aid opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences, these schools help students turn their artistic dreams into reality. Whether your passion is music, theater, visual arts, or digital media, Kentucky provides the perfect environment to nurture your creativity and build a successful career in the arts.
Explore your options, apply for scholarships, and take the first step toward your artistic future today!
“College and University Guide .com
a guide to colleges and universities across the USA”
Your Guide to the best Colleges and Universities in Kentucky
If you know of a college or university in the USA that should be listed here then tell us about it so that we can add it to our growing directory!

Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in the USA.
Connect with the top Kentucky recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.