VCU’s School of the Arts has been ranked No. 2 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Fine Arts Programs, released April 7. Part of the publication’s broader Best Graduate Schools rankings, VCUarts climbed two spots from its previous position, placing it among the most elite graduate fine arts and design programs in the nation.
The rankings are based entirely on peer assessment—evaluations submitted by deans and senior academics at 222 accredited art and design programs across the country—making the recognition a direct reflection of how VCUarts is regarded by its peers in the field. This is the first time U.S. News has ranked M.F.A. programs since 2020, giving the 2026 results particular significance.
“For nearly a century, VCUarts has stood at the forefront of creative education, producing artists, designers, scholars and leaders who shape culture and solve the most pressing challenges of our time,” said Carmenita Higginbotham, dean of VCU’s School of the Arts.
“Being ranked No. 2 in the nation is a tremendous achievement that reflects the excellence of our faculty, the talent of our students and the strength of our institution. We are proud of this recognition and will continue to push the boundaries of what creative research can accomplish.”
VCUarts has long been recognized as one of the nation’s premier destinations for graduate arts education. Its faculty of internationally recognized artists, accomplished alumni and talented, high-achieving students reflect the school’s commitment to exceptional professional art and design preparation within the context of a leading public research university.
Read the full list of 2026 best fine arts schools, or learn about the methodology used.
Across the university, VCU ranks in the top 50 in 18 categories in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings. Learn about the rankings of programs in the College of Health Professions, Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and more.
