California Institute of the Arts

What you'll study

The programme centres on interdisciplinary enquiry into culture, media and the arts. Core seminars introduce contemporary cultural theory, historiography, and methods of critical analysis, while elective modules allow focus on areas such as visual culture, performance studies, media and technology, curatorial practice, and archival methods.

• Core topics: contemporary theory, research methodologies, ethics of cultural practice.
• Typical modules: Cultural Theory and Criticism; Media and Society; Curatorial Practices; Performance and Embodiment; Visual Culture and Representation; Archives and Preservation; Research Methods.
• Studio/practicum components: opportunities to develop curatorial projects, exhibitions, publications or practice-led research in collaboration with campus galleries, performance spaces and labs.
• Capstone: a substantial final thesis or practice-based project that demonstrates original research and critical rigour.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a bachelor's degree in the humanities, social sciences, arts or a closely related field, with evidence of strong academic performance. Selection emphasises a demonstrable record of critical engagement with cultural practice.

• Academic transcripts showing undergraduate degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and how the programme supports them.
• One or more academic or professional references.
• A writing sample or portfolio that demonstrates analytical ability and engagement with cultural or artistic practices.
• Proof of English language proficiency if your previous degree was not taught in English, according to institutional requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of roles that bridge theory and practice across cultural sectors. The degree equips students with research, critical writing and project management skills valued in both nonprofit and commercial contexts.

• Museum and gallery curatorship, education and collections work.
• Arts administration and programming for festivals, cultural centres and NGOs.
• Cultural policy, advocacy and research roles within think tanks and public institutions.
• Editorial, critical and journalism roles focused on art, culture and media.
• Further academic research at doctoral level or teaching in higher education.
• Independent curatorial practice, cultural consultancy and creative entrepreneurship.

Why study at California Institute of the Arts

CalArts is known for its cross-disciplinary approach and emphasis on experimentation between practice and theory. The Cultural Studies programme is embedded within a small, studio-oriented institution where seminars are intimate and collaboration with artists, performers and technologists is routine.

• Interdisciplinary environment that encourages collaboration across schools of art, music, theatre and film.
• Faculty who combine scholarly expertise with active practice in curating, writing and critical production.
• Access to campus galleries, performance venues, media labs and archival resources to support practical and research projects.
• Proximity to the wider cultural ecology of Los Angeles, offering internship and professional networking opportunities across museums, galleries, festivals and media organisations.