Is Art School Really for Me? Finding the Right Creative College Fit

Finding Your Creative Home: Is Art College the Next Step?

If you’re reading this, you probably have a passion for making things. Whether you’re drawing, designing, filming, or sculpting, the big question looms: Should I go to art school?

Choosing a college is a huge decision, but the answer to “Is art school worth it?” usually comes down to what you need to thrive.

You Might Be Ready for Art School If…

• You Need Dedicated Time and Space: Art school provides focused studio time, specialized equipment (like printmaking or digital labs), and classmates who understand your creative drive. It’s hard to replicate that intensity on your own.
• You Value Hands-On Critique: Receiving constructive feedback from professional artists (your professors!) and your peers is how your work truly evolves. It forces you to see your art—and your potential—in a new light.
• You Want a Built-In Network: Art college immediately connects you to future collaborators, mentors, and the wider creative community. This network is invaluable once you graduate.
• You See Art as a Career Path: If you want your creative skills to be the core of your professional life, a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) program is specifically designed to make you a viable, versatile professional.

Not All Art Schools Are Created Equal: Finding the Right Fit

When you research, look beyond the shiny photos. Ask these questions:

• How Small Are the Classes? Small class sizes mean more direct one-on-one time with faculty. (At Montserrat, we pride ourselves on a low student-to-faculty ratio.)
• Where is the School Located? Does the location inspire you? Montserrat, in the coastal city of Beverly, Massachusetts, offers a vibrant arts scene and easy access to Boston’s creative hubs and museums.
• What is the Focus on Careers? Does the curriculum connect your studio work directly to the professional world?

We believe that being passionate about art is just the beginning. Art college is where you learn to apply that passion to a sustainable, meaningful career.

Ready to see what a BFA path looks like?

Explore Our BFA Programs at Montserrat College of Art.