FAQ

Where can I find the School Calendar?
Academic Calendar.

What types of degrees does CalArts offer?
CalArts offers BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) and MFA (Master of Fine Arts) degrees as well as undergraduate and advanced Fine Arts Certificates. Degrees Offered.

How long will it take me to finish my degree?
BFA degrees typically take four years to complete. MFA programs vary from two to three years. Program Lengths.

I have already taken some general education courses, will they transfer?
CalArts, in principle, accepts all postsecondary transfer credits from regionally accredited colleges and universities; we accept equivalent courses for our core curriculum requirements in Critical Studies. Transfer Credit.

What about classes in my major, do they transfer?
Classes in your major will typically transfer as electives within your BFA program. All previous education and training will be evaluated by a dean within your program in order to grant the appropriate credit. Transfer Credit.

Does CalArts accept AP credit?
CalArts grants Critical Studies credit toward the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree for successful completion of examinations in the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board. Students presenting scores of 3 or better are granted 4 semester units toward the Critical Studies requirement for each examination in the Humanities or Sciences as they relate to Critical Studies core curriculum requirements.

What classes are offered at CalArts?
A complete list of courses can be found in our online Course Catalog.

How will I know which classes to take? Will I have an advisor?
Every student is assigned a faculty mentor who is responsible for guiding the student through the artistic and academic programs. CalArts emphasizes the creation of strong student-to-faculty relationships which enable students to draw from their instructors' knowledge and creative spirit. Although students are initially assigned to a mentor, they have the freedom to change mentors at any point, and the student-mentor relationship continues throughout the student's time at CalArts.

How is grading done at CalArts?
Grades.

Does CalArts offer part-time study?
No. CalArts is an intensive arts training program and as such, we offer only full-time study.

Is CalArts accredited?
California Institute of the Arts is accredited by the Accrediting Commissions for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, 985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501, (510) 748-9001. CalArts is also a full member of the National Association of Schools of Music, Dance, and Theater. The Institute's School of Art is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Information concerning these organizations and their decisions is available in the Office of the Provost.