California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
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About California Institute of the Arts
Artists who helped shape contemporary animation and film came through here, including Tim Burton, John Lasseter, and Brad Bird. CalArts is known for cross-disciplinary, studio-based learning in visual arts, film, animation, theater, dance, and music. Critiques, close mentorship, and a try-it-and-see ethos create an exploratory yet disciplined atmosphere.
Studios, performance spaces, galleries, digital labs, and fabrication shops sit alongside advising, counseling, and career support. Student life revolves around constant shows, screenings, concerts, and pop-up projects. And the Valencia setting brings trails and calm, with Los Angeles close for internships, industry panels, and festivals. Distinctive trait: collaboration is the norm, and campus often feels like a working arts community.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
24700 W McBean Pky, Valencia, California, 91355, USA
Phone:
+1 (661) 255-1050
Website:
calarts.edu
Unit ID:
111081
Academic & Institutional
Control:
Private non-profit institution (tuition + donations)
Accreditation:
WSCUC
Length of Study:
Programs under 2 years (e.g. certificate or diploma)
Calendar System:
Semester system (two main terms per year)
Award Levels:
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate (Research)
Carnegie Classification:
Doctoral Universities: Very High Research
Master's - Medium programs
Campus Setting:
Located in a large suburb (outside principal city, 250,000+ population)
Tuition:
In-state: $56,724
(Tuition $56,074 + Fee
$650)
· Out-of-state:
$56,724
(Tuition $56,074 + Fee
$650)
Student Profile:
Total Students:
1,353
Undergraduate:
881
Graduate/Other:
472
Male: 528
Female: 825
Applications:
Total Applicants:
2,023
Admitted:
525
Enrolled:
177
Acceptance:
26%
Yield:
33.7%
Staff:
Total: 598
Full-time: 403
Part-time: 195
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in California. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in California vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Arts (33)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
Arts (33)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0301
Dance, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0301
Dance, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A general program that prepares individuals to express ideas, feelings, and/or inner visions through the performance of one or more of the dance disciplines, including but not limited to ballet, modern, jazz, ethnic, and folk dance, and that focuses on the study and analysis of dance as a cultural phenomenon. Includes instruction in technique, choreography, Laban notation, dance history and criticism, and dance production.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2031 | Dancers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 27-2032 | Choreographers | $62,020 | $70,770 | +$8,750 (+14.1%) |
50.0409
Graphic Design.
(Cert2y+)
50.0409
Graphic Design.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to apply artistic and computer techniques to the interpretation of technical and commercial concepts. Includes instruction in computer-assisted art and design, printmaking, concepts sketching, technical drawing, color theory, imaging, studio technique, still and life modeling, multimedia applications, communication skills and commercial art business operations.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15-1255 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450 | $91,000 | -$20,450 (-18.3%) |
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-1011 | Art Directors | $128,100 | $122,670 | -$5,430 (-4.2%) |
| 27-1014 | Special Effects Artists and Animators | $110,110 | $167,850 | +$57,740 (+52.4%) |
| 27-1019 | Artists and Related Workers, All Other | $79,490 | $100,010 | +$20,520 (+25.8%) |
| 27-1024 | Graphic Designers | $68,610 | $65,070 | -$3,540 (-5.2%) |
50.0502
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0502
Technical Theatre/Theatre Design and Technology.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to apply artistic, technical and dramatic principles and techniques to the communication of dramatic information, ideas, moods, and feelings through technical theatre methods. Includes instruction in set design, lighting design, sound effects, theatre acoustics, scene painting, property management, costume design, and technical direction and production and use of computer applications to support these functions.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-1027 | Set and Exhibit Designers | $78,450 | $104,970 | +$26,520 (+33.8%) |
50.0504
Playwriting and Screenwriting.
(PostBacCert)
50.0504
Playwriting and Screenwriting.
(PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the principles and techniques for communicating dramatic information, ideas, moods, and feelings through the composition of creative written works for the theatre, film, and/or television. Includes instruction in creative writing craft, scene writing, script development, stage and/or camera instructions, line and moment analysis, script reading, script editing, and the creation of full productions.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-3043 | Writers and Authors | $85,780 | $102,850 | +$17,070 (+19.9%) |
50.0506
Acting.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0506
Acting.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to communicate dramatic information, ideas, moods, and feelings through the achievement of naturalistic and believable behavior in imaginary circumstances. Includes instruction in voice and acting speech, stage dialects, movement, improvisation, acting styles, theatre history, script interpretation, and actor coaching.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2011 | Actors | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0507
Directing and Theatrical Production.
(PostBacCert)
50.0507
Directing and Theatrical Production.
(PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to manage the planning, design, preparation, and production of plays and other theatrical entertainment programs. Includes instruction in theatrical design, program management, dramatic production, rehearsal management, personnel management and casting, actor coaching, directing concepts and techniques, theater history, scene work, script interpretation, business management, marketing, public relations, and communications skills.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2011 | Actors | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 27-2012 | Producers and Directors | $114,280 | $71,180 | -$43,100 (-37.7%) |
| 27-2099 | Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0510
Costume Design.
(PostBacCert)
50.0510
Costume Design.
(PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to design and select costumes for characters in theatre and the performing arts and to serve as part of a production team. Includes instruction in costume design, script analysis, theory and criticism, period styles, history of costume, stage makeup, rendering, and costume construction.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-1022 | Fashion Designers | $122,430 | $131,820 | +$9,390 (+7.7%) |
50.0602
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0602
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to communicate dramatic information, ideas, moods, and feelings through the making and producing of films and videos. Includes instruction in theory of film, film technology and equipment operation, film production, film directing, film editing, cinematographic art, film audio, techniques for making specific types of films and/or videos, media technologies, computer image making, multi-media production, and the planning and management of film/video operations.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2012 | Producers and Directors | $114,280 | $71,180 | -$43,100 (-37.7%) |
| 27-4031 | Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film | $79,870 | $85,890 | +$6,020 (+7.5%) |
| 27-4032 | Film and Video Editors | $83,530 | $99,170 | +$15,640 (+18.7%) |
50.0605
Photography.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0605
Photography.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the principles and techniques of communicating information, ideas, moods, and feelings through the creation of images on photographic film, plates, and digital images and that may prepare individuals to be professional photographic artists. Includes instruction in camera and equipment operation and maintenance, film and plate developing, light and composition, films and printing media, color and special effects, photographic art, photographic history, use of computer applications to record or enhance images and applications to the photography of various subjects.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-4021 | Photographers | $55,650 | $60,330 | +$4,680 (+8.4%) |
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-1013 | Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators | $76,450 | $115,750 | +$39,300 (+51.4%) |
| 27-1019 | Artists and Related Workers, All Other | $79,490 | $100,010 | +$20,520 (+25.8%) |
50.0706
Intermedia/Multimedia.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0706
Intermedia/Multimedia.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals creatively and technically to express emotions, ideas, or inner visions in either two or three dimensions, through simultaneous use of a variety of materials and media.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-1011 | Art Directors | $128,100 | $122,670 | -$5,430 (-4.2%) |
| 27-1013 | Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators | $76,450 | $115,750 | +$39,300 (+51.4%) |
| 27-1014 | Special Effects Artists and Animators | $110,110 | $167,850 | +$57,740 (+52.4%) |
50.0901
Music, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0901
Music, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of music and the performing arts. Includes instruction in music, dance, and other performing arts media.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-2031 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $73,700 | $84,540 | +$10,840 (+14.7%) |
| 27-2042 | Musicians and Singers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0903
Music Performance, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0903
Music Performance, General.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that generally prepares individuals to master musical instruments and performing art as solo and/or ensemble performers. Includes instruction on one or more specific instruments from various instrumental groupings.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2041 | Music Directors and Composers | $84,230 | $90,130 | +$5,900 (+7%) |
| 27-2042 | Musicians and Singers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0904
Music Theory and Composition.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert, FPD)
50.0904
Music Theory and Composition.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert, FPD)
A program that focuses on the study of the principles of sound manipulation as applied to the creation of music, and the techniques of creating and arranging music. Includes instruction in aural theory, melody, counterpoint, complex harmony, modulation, chromatics, improvisation, progressions, musical writing, instrumentation, orchestration, electronic and computer applications, studies of specific musical styles, and development of original creative ability.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2041 | Music Directors and Composers | $84,230 | $90,130 | +$5,900 (+7%) |
50.0905
Musicology and Ethnomusicology.
(Cert2y+)
50.0905
Musicology and Ethnomusicology.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of the forms and methods of music art, and the functions of music, in Western and non-Western societies and cultures. Includes instruction in music theory, musicological research methods, and studies of specific cultural styles such as jazz, folk music, rock, ethnic musical traditions, and the music of non-Western cultures.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2041 | Music Directors and Composers | $84,230 | $90,130 | +$5,900 (+7%) |
50.0910
Jazz/Jazz Studies.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.0910
Jazz/Jazz Studies.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to study and master the performance and composition of Jazz. Includes instruction in the history of Jazz and related musical styles such as the Blues, Jazz composition and theory, improvisation, Jazz instrument and ensemble performance, and related topics.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2042 | Musicians and Singers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.0999
Music, Other.
(PostBacCert)
50.0999
Music, Other.
(PostBacCert)
Any instructional program in music not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2041 | Music Directors and Composers | $84,230 | $90,130 | +$5,900 (+7%) |
| 27-2042 | Musicians and Singers | N/A | N/A | N/A |
50.1004
Theatre/Theatre Arts Management.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.1004
Theatre/Theatre Arts Management.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to apply business management principles to the management of theatres and production corporations. Includes instruction in theatrical production, theatre design and planning, fund-raising and promotion, investment strategies, human resources management, theatre operations management, marketing, public relations, financial management and insurance, and applicable laws and regulations.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
| 27-2012 | Producers and Directors | $114,280 | $71,180 | -$43,100 (-37.7%) |
50.9999
Visual and Performing Arts, Other.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
50.9999
Visual and Performing Arts, Other.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
Any instructional program in visual and performing arts not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1121 | Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,240 | $133,540 | +$31,300 (+30.6%) |
Media Tech (2)
Digital Media Technologies and Broadcasting Systems
Media Tech (2)
Digital Media Technologies and Broadcasting Systems
10.0304
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
10.0304
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
A program that prepares individuals to use computer applications and related visual and sound imaging techniques to manipulate images and information originating as film, video, still photographs, digital copy, soundtracks, and physical objects in order to communicate messages simulating real-world content. Includes instruction in specialized camerawork and equipment operation and maintenance, image capture, computer programming, dubbing, CAD applications, and applications to specific commercial, industrial, and entertainment needs.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27-1014 | Special Effects Artists and Animators | $110,110 | $167,850 | +$57,740 (+52.4%) |
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0804
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation.
(PostBacCert)
11.0804
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation.
(PostBacCert)
A program focusing on the principles of applied visual simulation technology and the application of quantitative analyses to human-computer interaction. Includes instruction in object-oriented programming, artificial intelligence, computer communications and networks, computer graphics, virtual worlds and simulation systems, probability, statistics, stochastic modeling, data analysis, human-performance evaluation, and human-behavior modeling.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15-1221 | Computer and Information Research Scientists | $152,310 | N/A | N/A |
| 15-1251 | Computer Programmers | $103,640 | $99,130 | -$4,510 (-4.4%) |
| 15-1252 | Software Developers | $144,570 | $132,770 | -$11,800 (-8.2%) |
| 15-2051 | Data Scientists | $124,590 | $108,000 | -$16,590 (-13.3%) |
| 25-1021 | Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,830 | $182,140 | +$76,310 (+72.1%) |
| 27-1014 | Special Effects Artists and Animators | $110,110 | $167,850 | +$57,740 (+52.4%) |
11.0899
Computer Software and Media Applications, Other.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
11.0899
Computer Software and Media Applications, Other.
(Cert2y+, PostBacCert)
Any instructional program in computer software and media applications not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99-9999 | NO MATCH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
English (1)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
English (1)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
23.1302
Creative Writing.
(PostBacCert)
23.1302
Creative Writing.
(PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the process and techniques of original composition in various literary forms such as the short story, poetry, the novel, and others. Includes instruction in technical and editorial skills, criticism, and the marketing of finished manuscripts.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1123 | English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary | $90,400 | $119,170 | +$28,770 (+31.8%) |
| 25-1199 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | $94,470 | $143,290 | +$48,820 (+51.7%) |
| 27-3041 | Editors | $85,700 | $65,280 | -$20,420 (-23.8%) |
| 27-3043 | Writers and Authors | $85,780 | $102,850 | +$17,070 (+19.9%) |
Communication (1)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
Communication (1)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0702
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.
(PostBacCert)
09.0702
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.
(PostBacCert)
A program that focuses on the development, use, critical evaluation, and regulation of new electronic communication technologies using computer applications; and that prepares individuals to function as developers and managers of digital communications media. Includes instruction in computer and telecommunications technologies and processes; design and development of digital communications; marketing and distribution; digital communications regulation, law, and policy; the study of human interaction with, and use of, digital media; and emerging trends and issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
| 15-1255 | Web and Digital Interface Designers | $111,450 | $91,000 | -$20,450 (-18.3%) |
| 25-1122 | Communications Teachers, Postsecondary | $90,340 | $140,310 | +$49,970 (+55.3%) |
| 27-3099 | Media and Communication Workers, All Other | $84,870 | $71,690 | -$13,180 (-15.5%) |
Interdisciplinary (1)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
Interdisciplinary (1)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
30.2601
Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis.
(PostBacCert)
30.2601
Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis.
(PostBacCert)
An interdisciplinary program that focuses on the analysis and critique of culture in its varied forms, including values, ideas, belief systems, and expressive acts, and the relationship between cultural forms, everyday life, and structures of power. Includes instruction in anthropology, communications, history, literary studies, philosophy, political economy, and sociology, as well as recent theories and methodologies such as semiotics, deconstruction, postcolonial studies, gender theory, and ethnography.
Graduate Career Earnings in California
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-3099 | Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other | $106,440 | $89,110 | -$17,330 (-16.3%) |
| 25-1062 | Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary | $97,350 | $167,250 | +$69,900 (+71.8%) |
| 25-1199 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | $94,470 | $143,290 | +$48,820 (+51.7%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$77,308
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$77,308
In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$56,724
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$56,724
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$12,820 (on) / $18,600 (off)
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$938
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$6,826 (on) / $9,045 (off)
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
$8,064
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$41,790
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
$41,790
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
20%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$22,071
Avg. Loan
$9,997
Avg. Federal Loan
$5,236
Additional
Students with Any Grant
165
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
57
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
87
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$19,304
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
64%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
86%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$13,878 – $89,495
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$13,878 (25th %)
$89,495 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$41,198
Median Salary After 6 Years
$28,018
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$41,198
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
66.5%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
67.9%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$25,000
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low
60.3%
Middle
68.2%
High
70.5%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent
68.5%
Independent
52.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
How much does it cost to attend California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)?
The annual tuition at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) is $56,724 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $77,308 for in-state students. Additional costs include room and board $12,820 (on) / $18,600 (off) and books and supplies $938.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does California Institute of the Arts offer?
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) offers 44 academic programs across 6 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate (Research).
Most popular program areas include:
- Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (33 programs)
- Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (3 programs)
- Digital Media Technologies and Broadcasting Systems (2 programs)
- Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations (1 programs)
- English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis (1 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What is the acceptance rate for California Institute of the Arts?
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) has an 26% acceptance rate and a 33.7% yield rate, making it highly selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
- Total applicants: 2,023
- Students admitted: 525
- Students enrolled: 177
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at California Institute of the Arts?
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) provides financial aid to 20% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $22,071 and average loans of $9,997.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,456
- State/Local grants: $7,544
- Institutional grants: $19,304
- Federal loans: $5,236
The university supports 165 students with grants and 57 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for California Institute of the Arts graduates?
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) graduates earn a median salary of $28,018 after 6 years and $41,198 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $13,878 (25th percentile) to $89,495 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $96,900 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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