Explore the best online art courses

Looking to enroll in an online art course? This guide explores flexible online classes in subjects such as art history, architecture, design, and creative practice available through edX and its partners.

Key takeaways

  • Explore online art courses in subjects such as art history, architecture, graphic design, and creative practice.
  • Develop creative and practical skills through edX courses from partner schools and universities.
  • Art and design skills can apply to careers in fields such as design and architecture, where some roles have median annual salaries near or above $100,000.

Popular online art courses with certificates

The Architectural Imagination
Harvard University
Course
Tangible Things: Discovering History Through Artworks, Artifacts, Scientific Specimens, and the Stuff Around You
Harvard University
Course
European Paintings: From Leonardo to Rembrandt to Goya
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
Course
Reconceiving Space: Installation and Performance Art
University of Cambridge
Course

What is art?

Art is a form of creative expression that can include painting, sculpture, photography, film, music, design, architecture, and performance. Across cultures and time periods, people have used art to communicate ideas, emotions, beliefs, and experiences.

Why learn art?

  • Build a portfolio: As you complete art projects, you can build a portfolio that showcases your skills for personal or professional purposes.
  • Express yourself: Explore and communicate your ideas, emotions, and experiences through art.
  • Develop key skills: When you build artistic abilities, you can apply them across various roles, such as marketing and communications.

Browse online art certificates

Find new interests and advance your career opportunities

Stand out in your field

Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

Learn at your own pace

On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.

Earn a valuable credential

Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.

Certificates

Italian Language and Culture: Beginner to Advanced
Wellesley College
Professional Certificate
3 courses
Shakespeare's Life, Work, and Characters
Harvard University
XSeries
4 courses
History of China: Bronze Age to the Last Dynasties
Harvard University
XSeries
5 courses
World Religions Through Their Scriptures
Harvard University
XSeries
7 courses
Classical Works
Harvard University
XSeries
5 courses
Engineering Project Management: Mastering Project Complexity
Delft University of Technology
Professional Certificate
2 courses
English Communication Skills
Tsinghua University
Professional Certificate
3 courses
Historias de la creatividad en el sur global: arte, arquitectura y diseño
Universidad del Rosario
XSeries
3 courses

Careers you can pursue with an art background

A background in art can support a range of creative and design-oriented career paths. Art courses may help you develop visual, creative, and technical skills relevant to fields such as design, media, marketing, and architecture. The following are a few careers that may draw on an art or design background.

Note: Education, experience, and licensing requirements vary by role and employer.

Art director

Art directors develop and oversee the visual style of publications, advertising campaigns, product packaging, film, television, and other media. They may also direct designers and artists and review creative work.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree in art or a design-related field and previous related work experience
  • Median annual salary (2025): $114,850

Why learn art online with edX

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How to start learning art

Some people take art courses to develop their personal abilities in areas like drawing and design, while others use them to build skills that support academic or career goals. With edX, you can find online courses that align with your goals. Use these steps to get started.

1. Build your understanding of art and visual culture

Begin by exploring foundational concepts in art, visual culture, and historical context. Introductory courses may focus on analyzing artworks, understanding visual language, and examining art across different cultures and time periods. Building this foundation can prepare you to explore more specialized topics.

Featured courses

Pyramids of Giza: Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology
Harvard University
Course
Interpreting Vernacular Architecture in Asia
The University of Hong Kong
Course
Teaching Critical Thinking through Art with the National Gallery of Art
The Smithsonian Institution
Course

Explore art programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I learn art online?

Yes. You can study art-related subjects online through edX, including topics such as art history, architecture, graphic design, and other creative fields. Course formats and pacing vary, so you can explore options that align with your interests and schedule.

What should beginners learn first in art?

Beginners can start by exploring foundational concepts such as composition, visual analysis, color, or design principles, depending on the type of art they want to study. From there, they can explore more specialized subjects that align with their interests.

Do I need drawing experience to study art?

No. Drawing experience is not always required to study art, especially in subjects such as art history, design, architecture, or visual culture. Course prerequisites vary, so check the requirements for the specific course you're considering.

What careers can you pursue with art skills?

Art skills may be relevant to careers in areas like education, marketing, and digital media, among other fields. Education, experience, licensure, and other requirements vary significantly by occupation and employer, so review the requirements for the specific career you are considering.