Entering the 21st century, it is clear that the global economy is undergoing immense change. Globally, governments have sought education systems that can respond to these changes. Focusing on STEM courses is one major trend. As a result, the humanities, arts, and social sciences can sometimes be marginalized. So, why major in the arts? Students may learn about the human body or that every action has a reaction, but in reality, things are not always so simple.
Globalization allows us to study a variety of international art forms from anywhere. However, seeing artworks, architecture, and cultural traditions up close is a major advantage. Art helps show who we are as people, and studying art abroad can help students better understand the origins and context of the art they study at home. A student’s daily life can also become part of their education, from language to relationships to food.
Top Countries to Study Art
1. France
Students interested in studying art abroad often choose France. It is no secret that the country is a cultural center for artists, philosophers, and other thinkers from around the world.
Today, Campus France and France-Visas provide centralized information for international students, including study planning, scholarships, and visa guidance. The French government, universities, and European programs also provide scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students enrolled in top French educational institutions.
When it comes to seeking creative inspiration, the “City of Light,” Paris, is hard to beat. France is also home to major cultural sites and museums, including the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Palace of Versailles. It shaped or hosted many major modern artists, including Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Paul Cézanne, and Pablo Picasso.
If you are thinking of studying art in France, it is worth considering the following universities: Sorbonne University, Université Paris Cité, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales (EHESS), and Aix-Marseille University.
2. Italy
- Notable School/s: Sapienza University of Rome | University of Bologna | University of Padua
- Reasons: Opportunity to engage with Italian art and history, the chance to learn Italian, several English-taught graduate degrees, relatively moderate public university fees, government and university scholarships, and many museums and historic sites
Italy is one of the best countries to study art. New artistic techniques and styles emerged during the Italian Renaissance, a time when art blossomed and the Middle Ages gave way to modernity. If you want to learn about Italy’s rich artistic history and different artistic methods, pursuing art in Italy is a great choice, as understanding the history of a work of art is important.
Learning Italian, one of the European Union’s official languages, is useful for anyone aspiring to build a career in the arts. Most undergraduate programs in Italy are taught in Italian, while several graduate programs are available in English, so students should check the language of instruction for each degree. Public university tuition is generally lower than in many private study destinations, and scholarships from the government and universities are available to help students pay for their education.
Italy has produced some of the most recognized works of art and architecture in the world’s history of civilization. A few examples include the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum in Rome, and the Capitoline Museums. Famous creators such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael were born in the country.
If you are thinking of studying art in Italy, it is worth considering the following universities: Sapienza University of Rome, University of Bologna, University of Padua, University of Turin, and Università Roma Tre.
3. China
- Notable School/s: Tsinghua University | Tongji University | Central Academy of Fine Arts
- Reasons: An increasingly active destination for international students in Asia, a wide array of art forms, many universities to choose from, government and university scholarship options, a chance to learn Mandarin Chinese, and many historic and contemporary art sites
As a study destination in Asia, China has become increasingly active among students from around the world. Throughout the years, Chinese painters and craftspeople have created a vast range of fine and decorative art forms. Painting, calligraphy, architecture, pottery, sculpture, bronzes, and jade carvings are a few of the many disciplines included.
There are also many universities to choose from, and costs vary by institution and program. The Chinese government and universities offer a range of scholarship opportunities for international students, including Chinese Government Scholarship programs administered through the China Scholarship Council.
Mandarin Chinese has the largest number of native speakers in the world, while English has more total speakers. Learning Mandarin can strengthen students’ future career options. Lessons can speed up language acquisition, but immersion is still one of the best ways to improve.
The Terracotta Army, the Potala Palace, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall of China are just a few of the many sights to see in the country. China is also home to major museums, including the National Museum of China and the Palace Museum.
If you are thinking of studying art in China, it is worth considering the following universities: Tsinghua University, Tongji University, and Central Academy of Fine Arts. China is a strong option for students interested in art and design.
4. Netherlands
- Notable School/s: Design Academy Eindhoven | Utrecht University | University of Amsterdam
- Reasons: Strong higher education system, conditional work options while studying, a one-year orientation year residence permit after graduation for eligible graduates, well known for architecture and design, easy travel to other countries, and great student life
The Dutch higher education system is highly regarded internationally. Students may be able to work while studying, but the rules depend on nationality and permit status. Non-EU/EEA students usually need work authorization arranged by their employer and must choose between working up to 16 hours per week or working full-time only in June, July, and August. After graduation, eligible graduates can apply for a one-year orientation year residence permit, which can open the door to longer-term employment. Avant-garde architecture and cutting-edge design are among the country’s well-known strengths.
Students studying in the Netherlands can easily travel to other major European destinations because of the country’s strong transportation links. The lively nightlife and social scene also make the Netherlands an excellent choice for students.
If you are thinking of studying art in the Netherlands, it is worth considering the following universities: Design Academy Eindhoven, Utrecht University, and the University of Amsterdam.
5. Greece
Western classical art has many roots in ancient Greek sculpture, architecture, and pottery. With its deep links to Mediterranean and European culture, Greece provides a distinctive educational experience. Greek higher education has also continued to internationalize through English-taught programs, joint degrees, and academic mobility initiatives.
If you are thinking of studying art in Greece, it is worth considering the following universities: the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and the University of Patras.
6. Japan
The Japanese government offers MEXT scholarships that may include tuition support and monthly allowances, depending on the scholarship category. Universities and private organizations also offer scholarships with varied conditions. Many Japanese universities maintain international programs and partnerships, and students can explore a wide range of art disciplines, from calligraphy and traditional crafts to manga and animation.
If you are thinking of studying art in Japan, it is worth considering the following universities: Tokyo University of the Arts, Musashino Art University, and Tama Art University.
7. South Africa
Because of its diverse population, 12 official languages, and natural landscapes, South Africa is a compelling country for studying the arts. South Africa’s arts programs can be comparatively affordable, although tuition and living expenses vary by university and city. English is widely used in higher education, but institutions set their own language policies, and several universities support multilingual teaching and communication.
If you are thinking of studying art in South Africa, it is worth considering the following universities: the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, the Wits School of Arts, and the University of Pretoria.
A relevant degree in the arts can support your career growth and help you stand out in your field. Getting it from a strong school can be an added advantage. Fortunately, you can make this dream more affordable with support from this comprehensive list of international scholarships to help you study without worrying about your finances.
We hope this article on the best countries to study art was informative and insightful. If you are interested in studying abroad, make sure to check out the Available Programs for International Students!
