Degrees Offered: B. F. A. Art, Graphic Design, Character Animation or Experimental Animation; M. F. A. Graphic Design (with or without specialization in Motion Graphics), Art and Technology, Experimental Animation
Tuition Information: Undergraduate $37,684, graduate $ 37,684 for the 2010 – 2011 school year
Contact Information:
24700 McBean Parkway
Valencia, CA 91355
661.255.1050 (Admissions)
www.calarts.edu
Scope of Program:
California Institute of the Arts offers a wide array of art, design and animation courses. Art students begin with foundation courses in drawing, print and digital media, art history and painting. Individual study and art workshops are required each year. Art students must prepare either a final thesis or exhibition during their senior year. Graphic Design students focus on visualization, photography, typography, digital production, web design and professional practice. A senior project completes the experience. Master's degree candidates may choose to specialize in Motion Graphics. Character Animation students concentrate on drawing, color, design, traditional and computer graphics, storytelling and sound effects. Experimental Animation students take courses in 2D and 3D computer graphics, animation history, stop-motion and 2D and drawn animation. Master's degree candidates must complete a thesis project. The M. F. A. in Art and Technology program focuses on the places new media and art intersect, including digital video, digital imaging and sound, web-based systems and computer programming. A thesis and portfolio are required.
Admission to Cal Arts is extremely selective. Applicants must submit a portfolio or video reel and an artist's statement. Each department requires a different type of portfolio or reel. Some departments also require interviews. Incoming students may apply for the Cal Arts Scholarship, while third-year students are eligible to apply for the Beutner Family Award. Cal Arts offers school-funded loans for students demonstrating financial need, in addition to federal and state loans and grants.