Top Arts Schools in Vermont
Explore Vermont’s Most Creative Colleges and Universities for Aspiring Artists
Introduction: Why Study the Arts in Vermont?
Vermont may be known for its scenic landscapes, maple syrup, and peaceful lifestyle, but it also boasts a rich artistic culture and a network of colleges and universities committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, designers, performers, and creative thinkers.
Whether you’re interested in visual arts, graphic design, music, theatre, creative writing, or interdisciplinary studies, Vermont offers diverse programs rooted in both tradition and innovation. The state’s unique combination of small-town charm and vibrant cultural scenes makes it a dynamic place to study the arts while enjoying a strong sense of community and access to professional opportunities.
This guide highlights top arts schools across Vermont, each offering exceptional programs, faculty mentorship, real-world experience, and financial aid to help make your artistic education both enriching and accessible.
Top Arts Schools in Vermont
University of Vermont (UVM) – Burlington
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The University of Vermont’s College of Arts and Sciences provides a broad liberal arts education with strong offerings in studio art, art history, theatre, dance, and music. Located in the culturally rich city of Burlington, UVM combines academic excellence with access to galleries, performance venues, and creative community spaces.
Highlights:
- BFA and BA degrees in Studio Art and Art History
- Facilities include painting, sculpture, digital art, and printmaking studios
- Theatre and music students can participate in university productions and ensembles
- Opportunities for internships, exhibitions, and study abroad programs
- Access to the Fleming Museum of Art and local arts initiatives
UVM is an ideal choice for students seeking a well-rounded arts education with opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and community involvement.
Bennington College – Bennington
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Bennington College is nationally recognized for its self-directed, interdisciplinary approach to education. The arts are at the core of Bennington’s identity, offering programs that allow students to explore and innovate across disciplines such as visual arts, dance, drama, music, and literature.
Highlights:
- No traditional majors—students design their own Plan of Study
- Strong mentorship from professional artists and scholars
- Home to the Visual and Performing Arts Center and Usdan Gallery
- Annual Field Work Term places students in internships across the globe
- Emphasis on experimentation, risk-taking, and personal voice
Bennington attracts students who are passionate about creativity and want a flexible yet rigorous environment to develop their artistic vision.
Middlebury College – Middlebury
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Middlebury College offers a comprehensive liberal arts education with a vibrant arts program that includes music, theatre, dance, film and media culture, and studio art. Students enjoy small class sizes, faculty collaboration, and access to world-class performance and exhibition spaces.
Highlights:
- BA programs in Film and Media, Theatre, Music, and Studio Art
- Kevin P. Mahaney ’84 Center for the Arts hosts performances, lectures, and exhibits
- Active student organizations for a cappella, theatre productions, and filmmaking
- Art majors benefit from modern facilities including a digital media lab and print shop
- Opportunities for international study in arts-rich cities
Middlebury fosters deep intellectual engagement and creative exploration, making it a top choice for well-rounded arts students.
Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) – Montpelier
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VCFA is a graduate-level institution dedicated entirely to the arts, offering low-residency MFA programs in Writing, Visual Art, Film, Graphic Design, Music Composition, and more. Though it primarily serves graduate students, its reputation and connections offer inspiration and mentorship to undergraduates throughout the state.
Highlights:
- Low-residency model attracts working artists from around the world
- Emphasis on artistic voice, collaboration, and real-world relevance
- Students work with leading professionals and participate in intensive on-campus residencies
- Alumni and faculty include award-winning artists and writers
VCFA is a creative hub and valuable resource for aspiring artists, even for those considering future graduate study.
Northern Vermont University – Johnson Campus (Now part of Vermont State University)
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Located in the scenic town of Johnson, this campus offers strong arts programming with a focus on visual arts, fine arts, and creative writing. Students benefit from hands-on learning, studio access, and public exhibitions in a close-knit artistic community.
Highlights:
- BFA and BA degrees in Fine Arts, Art Education, and Creative Writing
- Facilities include drawing, sculpture, ceramics, and photography studios
- Art Gallery hosts student and professional exhibitions
- Active artist residency programs and community art engagement
- Opportunities to connect with Vermont Studio Center, one of the largest residencies in the country
This school offers a deeply immersive and practical environment for artists seeking strong foundational training.
Champlain College – Burlington
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Champlain College is known for its career-focused approach, and its Division of Communication & Creative Media offers forward-thinking programs in creative media, game art, digital filmmaking, graphic design, and visual communication.
Highlights:
- Degrees in Creative Media, Game Art, Filmmaking, and Graphic Design & Visual Communication
- High-tech facilities including green screen studios, motion capture labs, and editing suites
- Emphasis on building industry-ready portfolios and real-world experience
- Internship programs connect students to creative agencies and studios in Burlington and beyond
- Study abroad options at campuses in Montreal and Dublin
Champlain is a perfect fit for students who want to merge creativity with technology and innovation.
Castleton University (Now part of Vermont State University)
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Castleton has a longstanding tradition of supporting the arts, with programs in theatre, music, art, and media and communication. Its rural setting and strong campus community provide an ideal environment for creativity to flourish.
Highlights:
- BA degrees in Art, Theatre Arts, and Media & Communication
- Visual arts students enjoy traditional and digital studio spaces
- Theatre productions open to all students and the broader community
- Castleton’s Soundings program integrates arts and culture into academic life
- Affordable tuition with generous state and institutional aid
Castleton is a great option for students seeking a well-rounded and affordable arts education.
Community College of Vermont (CCV)
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CCV offers associate degrees and certificates with a strong foundation in the arts, including visual arts, digital media, and creative writing. As Vermont’s largest community college, CCV makes arts education accessible across the state with flexible options for transfer to four-year schools.
Highlights:
- Programs in Visual Arts, Digital Media, and Liberal Studies with an arts focus
- Affordable tuition and transfer pathways to UVM and Vermont State University
- Small class sizes and supportive faculty
- Emphasis on portfolio development and foundational skills
- Evening and online classes available for flexibility
CCV is ideal for students looking to explore their artistic interests with affordable, foundational coursework.
Marlboro College Legacy at Emerson College (Marlboro Institute for Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies)
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Though Marlboro College in Vermont closed in 2020, its academic legacy lives on through the Marlboro Institute at Emerson College in Boston. Many faculty and traditions of Marlboro’s liberal arts and arts-based learning environment continue to thrive in this unique partnership.
Highlights:
- Students can design individualized majors in the arts and humanities
- Combines Marlboro’s intimate learning approach with Emerson’s urban creative energy
- Continued focus on self-directed learning, critical thinking, and creative practice
- Access to Boston’s rich cultural and artistic landscape
This legacy pathway is a powerful option for students who seek personalized arts education with historical roots in Vermont.
Cultivate Your Artistic Potential in the Green Mountain State
Vermont’s colleges and universities offer a compelling range of arts education opportunities—from traditional studio programs and performance-based training to digital media innovation and interdisciplinary exploration. Students can find their artistic voice while enjoying small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and a tight-knit creative community.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or ready to take your art to the next level, Vermont provides an inspiring setting to develop your craft, challenge your thinking, and prepare for a meaningful and creative career.
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Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
How a New Grad Should Approach Recruiters to Start Their Job Search
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but entering the job market can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to kickstart your job search is by working with recruiters. Recruiters have insider knowledge, access to hidden job opportunities, and connections with top employers. Here’s how you should approach them effectively:
1. Identify the Right Recruiters
Not all recruiters specialize in the same industries. Research and connect with recruiters who focus on your field. Websites like HeadhuntersDirectory.com can help you find the right professionals.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile highlight your education, internships, skills, and accomplishments. Recruiters need to see what makes you a strong candidate.
3. Reach Out with a Professional Message
When contacting recruiters via LinkedIn or email, be direct and professional. Here’s a sample message:
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m a recent [Your Degree] graduate from [Your University] with a strong interest in [Your Industry]. I’d love to connect and explore any opportunities that align with my skills. Looking forward to hearing your insights!
4. Be Clear About Your Goals
Recruiters work best when they understand what you’re looking for. Be specific about your preferred roles, industries, locations, and salary expectations.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
If a recruiter doesn’t respond immediately, follow up after a week. Once you establish a connection, maintain regular communication without being overly persistent.
6. Be Open to Feedback and Opportunities
Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
7. Treat It Like a Professional Relationship
Even if a recruiter doesn’t place you in a job immediately, stay in touch. They might have the perfect opportunity in the future.
Final Thoughts
Working with recruiters can accelerate your job search, but your approach matters. Be proactive, professional, and open to opportunities. Connect with a local headhunter or recruiter to explore current opportunities!
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 Vermont recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.