California Institute of the Arts

What you'll study

This programme centres on studio-based practice, research and collaborative projects that explore contemporary design and applied art across physical and digital media. Students combine thematic studios with theoretical coursework and technical workshops to develop a sustained body of work and a final thesis project.

• Studio Practice: Intensive, faculty-led studios that focus on project development, iterative making and critique. Studios frequently address interaction and interface design, social and service design, spatial/environmental design, material and object making, and cross-disciplinary experimentation.
• Research Methods and Critical Theory: Seminars on research strategies, design history, critical theory and methodologies for practice-led research that inform project framing and contextualisation.
• Technical Workshops: Practical modules in prototyping, digital fabrication, coding for designers, motion and time-based media, typography and publication design, and advanced imaging and materials studies.
• Collaborative and Cross-School Projects: Interdisciplinary collaborations with animation, film, performing arts and music students to develop real-world commissions, installations and interactive works.
• Professional Practice: Courses and workshops on portfolio development, client engagement, entrepreneurship, exhibition curation and preparing work for publication or commercial production.
• Thesis / Final Project: A sustained practised-based or hybrid research project accompanied by a written component or critical exegesis, presented in a public review or exhibition.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree (BA, BFA or equivalent) in design, art, architecture, media or a related discipline, or demonstrate comparable professional experience. Typical programme entry is competitive and portfolio quality is a primary criterion.

• Portfolio: A concise, curated portfolio of recent creative work showcasing process, outcomes and conceptual thinking. Work in multiple media and evidence of research-based practice are advantageous.
• Personal Statement: A statement of purpose outlining artistic direction, research interests and how the programme will support your goals.
• References: Two or three academic or professional references that speak to your creative ability and potential for graduate study.
• Interview: Shortlisted applicants are often invited to an interview (in person or online) and may be asked to discuss work in the portfolio.
• English proficiency: For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English language ability is required in line with institutional policy.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of creative and strategic roles across industry, cultural organisations and academia. The programme’s interdisciplinary focus prepares students for careers that demand critical thinking, visual communication and problem-solving in complex contexts.

• Product, interaction and experience designer roles in tech, cultural institutions and agencies
• Service and social design positions within public, non-profit and private sectors
• Art direction, visual communication and branding roles in studios and media companies
• Exhibition, installation and environmental design for galleries, museums and events
• Independent practice as makers, commissioned artists or design consultants
• Further academic work and teaching, including PhD-level research in design and applied arts

Why study at California Institute of the Arts

CalArts is known for its experimental, studio-based culture and its emphasis on multidisciplinary dialogue across visual and performing arts. The institute fosters critical risk-taking within small, closely mentored cohorts, allowing students to pursue bespoke trajectories that combine conceptual rigour with technical skill.

• Interdisciplinary environment: Easy access to students and faculty across animation, film, music and theatre encourages cross-pollination of methods and ideas.
• Faculty and visiting artists: Teaching staff are practising artists and designers, and the programme regularly hosts visiting critics and industry professionals who contribute to reviews and public talks.
• Facilities and workshops: Well-equipped studios, fabrication labs, digital labs and presentation spaces support both analogue and digital experimentation.
• Los Angeles context: Located in a globally significant creative region, the institute provides connections to cultural institutions, design studios, production facilities and an active professional network.