Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

California College of the Arts

San Francisco, California · www.cca.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

91.1%

2025

Peer median 61.3%

Tuition per year

$60,226

$82,325 with room and board

Peer median $40,478

Undergraduates

1,004

Student-faculty ratio 8:1

Peer median 9 : 1

Graduation rate

53.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 72.2%

Peer median 52.9%

“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

California College of the Arts (CCA) is a prestigious institution located in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, known for its exceptional programs in art, design, and architecture. Established in 1907, CCA has developed a strong reputation for fostering creativity and innovation among its diverse student body. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, “To inspire and prepare students to shape culture and society through the practice of art and design.” This guiding principle emphasizes the importance of not only artistic excellence but also the impact of creative work on the broader community.

The campus itself is a hub of artistic expression, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support a dynamic learning environment. CCA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including painting, sculpture, graphic design, industrial design, and architecture, among others. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, students are encouraged to explore various mediums and develop their unique voices. The college's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is reflected in its curriculum and community projects, ensuring that graduates are not only skilled artists but also conscientious global citizens. The vibrant student life at CCA is enriched by numerous exhibitions, workshops, and events, creating a culturally rich atmosphere that celebrates creativity and innovation.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at California College of the Arts

The California College of the Arts has seen a significant increase in tuition fees over the years, with the undergraduate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students rising from approximately $40,334 in 2014 to $57,946 in 2024, marking an increase of nearly 43%. This trend reflects a broader issue in higher education where rising costs often outpace inflation, creating financial burdens for students and families.

In contrast, graduation rates for undergraduate students have shown a positive trajectory, with the on-time graduation rate climbing from about 23.9% in 2013 to 51.6% in 2023. This increase suggests that the institution may be improving its academic support and student services, leading to better outcomes for students. A higher graduation rate is not only beneficial for the students but also enhances the institution's reputation and attractiveness to prospective students.

Retention rates have also fluctuated, peaking in 2018 at approximately 83.5% before dropping to around 78.5% in 2023. This decline in retention may indicate challenges in student satisfaction or changes in the student body demographics. A strong retention rate is crucial, as it reflects the institution's ability to keep students engaged and enrolled until graduation.

Overall, while the rising tuition presents challenges for accessibility, the improvements in graduation and retention rates demonstrate a commitment to student success at California College of the Arts. Balancing these factors will be essential for the institution as it navigates the complexities of higher education in an increasingly competitive landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
San Francisco, about 35 mi
Nearest international airport
Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), about 10 mi
San Francisco, California
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
David C. Howse (President)
Phone
4157039500
City
San Francisco, California
Address
145 Hooper Street, San Francisco, CA 94107-2247

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
87.6%
Women
92.2%

In 2020: men 81.5%, women 86.3%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at California College of the Arts

The admission data for California College of the Arts over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader shifts in higher education. The statistics illustrate fluctuations in both male and female admission rates, which have varied considerably. For instance, in 2015, the male admission rate dropped to approximately 59%, while the female admission rate was about 66%. This sharp decline in acceptance rates could be attributed to an increase in applications or perhaps a change in the institution's enrollment strategy during that time.
Interestingly, by 2019, the male admission rate surged to 86%, alongside a female admission rate of 89%, suggesting a possible shift in the college's focus toward a more inclusive admission process. The substantial increase in enrollment figures from previous years, combined with lower denial numbers in 2019 and 2020, indicates that the college was likely aiming to expand its student body during this period.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has remained relatively high, peaking in the years 2015 to 2018. This may suggest that the institution was managing its admission numbers by deferring applicants, possibly to maintain a balanced and diverse cohort without overwhelming resources.
In summary, the data indicates that California College of the Arts has navigated challenges and opportunities in its admissions process. The fluctuations in acceptance rates reflect the dynamic nature of college admissions and the institution's efforts to adapt to changing educational landscapes and student demographics. As the college continues to evolve, understanding these trends will be essential for prospective students and the institution alike.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Fine Arts#49

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of California College of the Arts Admission Data

The admission data from California College of the Arts reveals a stable trend in standardized test score submissions over the years. From 2013 onwards, a consistent portion of applicants submitted their SAT or ACT scores, with 55% of applicants in recent years providing their SAT results. This steady percentage suggests that a significant majority of prospective students still find value in showcasing their standardized test performance during the admission process.

The SAT reading and math scores for admitted students have remained within a range of 450 to 590. This range indicates that the college maintains a moderate threshold for academic performance, which may attract a diverse applicant pool. The decision to not publish data for earlier years reflects a potential shift in the college's approach to transparency or a change in the admissions criteria over time.

In recent years, many colleges have adopted "test-optional" policies, allowing students to choose whether to submit standardized test scores. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the limitations of standardized testing in capturing a student's full potential. As the data shows California College of the Arts still valuing these scores, it will be interesting to see if they will adapt to this changing landscape in higher education.

Overall, while the college has maintained a consistent approach to its admission metrics, the broader context of evolving admissions practices may prompt future adjustments in how standardized test scores are incorporated into the evaluation process.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

2,371 applicants in 2025, 91.1% admitted

2,160 admitted 211 not admitted Yield 8.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's22075 international (34.1%)
Master's15987 international (54.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
51
Illustration
28
Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology
24
Human Computer Interaction
23
Industrial and Product Design
17
Computer Graphics
16
Intermedia/Multimedia
14
Painting
9
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
8
Photography
6

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Human Computer Interaction · Master's50 (92% international)
  • Design and Visual Communications, General · Master's31 (65% international)
  • Fine/Studio Arts, General · Master's20 (15% international)
  • Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology · Master's17 (35% international)
  • Management Science · Master's12 (25% international)
  • Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects · Master's9 (33% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from California College of the Arts

The graduation data from California College of the Arts in 2023 reveals intriguing trends across various disciplines. Notably, the field of Human Computer Interaction stands out, with a remarkable total of 56 master's graduates, predominantly from domestic students. This aligns with the increasing demand for professionals skilled in bridging technology and user experience, highlighting the importance of this discipline in today's digital-centric world.

In terms of undergraduate degrees, the Illustration program produced 32 graduates, indicating a robust interest in traditional and digital art forms. This aligns with the evolving landscape of visual communication where illustrators are increasingly sought after in various industries, including publishing, advertising, and digital media. Conversely, the Computer Graphics program had 29 bachelor’s graduates, showcasing the institution's focus on merging artistic creativity with technical skills, essential in the gaming and animation sectors.

Interestingly, we observe a significant presence of international students in the master's programs, particularly in Human Computer Interaction, where 48 of the 56 graduates are international. This trend reflects the global appeal of such programs and suggests that California College of the Arts is an attractive destination for students seeking advanced education in cutting-edge fields.

Moreover, the data reveals a predominance of performing arts-related degrees, with several programs yielding notable numbers of graduates. This may reflect broader cultural trends encouraging creativity and artistic expression, especially in an era where digital platforms for performances have surged.

Overall, this data not only highlights the strengths of California College of the Arts in various disciplines but also suggests shifting demands in the job market, emphasizing the need for a blend of creativity and technical expertise.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Visual and Performing artshas 165 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Design and Visual Communications, General.$46,636
Industrial and Product Design.$46,636
Fashion/Apparel Design.$46,636
Illustration.$46,636
Game and Interactive Media Design.$46,636
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$26,006
Photography.$26,006
Fine/Studio Arts, General.$27,919
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.$27,919
Intermedia/Multimedia.$27,919
Painting.$27,919
Sculpture.$27,919
Printmaking.$27,919
Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts.$27,919
Jewelry Arts.$27,919
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 74 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Museology/Museum Studies.-
Human Computer Interaction.-
Communications technologies has 60 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.$21,377
Architecture has 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology.$70,221
Computer and information sciencehas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Graphics.-
Businesshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Management Science.-
English has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Creative Writing.-
Precision production has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Furniture Design and Manufacturing.-

Students

1,308 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 86.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,004)

International
318 · 31.7%
White
210 · 20.9%
Hispanic
166 · 16.5%
Asian
157 · 15.6%
Two or more races
68 · 6.8%
Black
40 · 4.0%
Unknown
40 · 4.0%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of California College of the Arts in 2023

The student composition at California College of the Arts in 2023 reveals significant gender disparities and a diverse student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, 34% of the students are male while 66% are female, indicating a strong female representation at the entry level. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors and transfer students, where the male ratios stand at 38.2% and 38%, respectively, affirming a consistent pattern of greater female enrollment.

Graduate students show a more pronounced gender imbalance, with only 28.9% being male and an impressive 71.1% female representation. This might reflect broader trends in graduate education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, especially in creative fields.

The diversity within the student body is notable, particularly among undergraduates. The data suggests a variety of racial backgrounds, with white students making up a significant portion of the population across categories. However, the exact figures for other racial demographics such as Asian, Latinx, and others are not fully disclosed for the year 2023, which limits a comprehensive analysis of the diversity landscape.

Overall, the data indicates that California College of the Arts is fostering an environment that encourages female participation and offers a glimpse into the evolving demographic structure of higher education in the arts. As institutions strive for inclusivity, it will be essential to monitor these trends and ensure that all racial and gender identities are represented and supported.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at California College of the Arts

The age composition of students at California College of the Arts in 2023 reveals interesting trends in enrollment patterns. The largest group of students falls within the 18-21 age range, with undergraduate males and females comprising 102 and 220 students, respectively. This suggests that the institution attracts a significant number of recent high school graduates looking to pursue their undergraduate degrees, reflecting a broader trend of young adults seeking higher education immediately after secondary school.

As students progress into their twenties, the number of undergraduate males decreases slightly, while undergraduate females continue to grow, indicating a potential shift toward a more balanced gender representation in the later years of undergraduate education. The age group of 22-24 shows a notable presence of graduate students, particularly females, which could indicate that more women are pursuing advanced degrees, aligning with national trends of increasing female enrollment in graduate programs.

Interestingly, the participation of older age groups is minimal, with only a few students aged 30 and above. This could illustrate the challenges faced by non-traditional students in accessing higher education or the preference of younger demographics for art and design programs, which tend to be more appealing to recent graduates.

Moreover, the absence of students aged 65 and above might reflect societal barriers or a lack of targeted programs for older individuals wishing to pursue art education. Overall, the data illustrates a youthful demographic at California College of the Arts, emphasizing the institution's role in shaping the next generation of artists and designers.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Undergraduates31.7%

318 in 2025 · 30.4% in 2016

0% 25% 50% 2016: 30.4%2017: 34.4%2018: 37.2%2019: 41.3%2020: 43.4%2021: 39.0%2022: 37.6%2023: 35.9%2024: 33.9%2025: 31.7%
2016Peer median 5.0%2025
Graduate students46.1%

140 in 2025 · 30.5% in 2016

0% 30% 60% 2016: 30.5%2017: 38.9%2018: 41.5%2019: 47.5%2020: 50.8%2021: 50.9%2022: 49.3%2023: 52.0%2024: 53.6%2025: 46.1%
2016Peer median 29.8%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at California College of the Arts

The data regarding international student enrollment at California College of the Arts over the years reveals significant trends worth discussing. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a remarkable increase, growing from approximately 5.64% to 35.90%. This reflects an upward trajectory in the institution's appeal to international students, likely due to its strong arts programs and diverse curriculum.

The graduate student body has also experienced a notable rise in the proportion of international students, with numbers surging from about 5.82% in 2004 to an impressive 51.97% in 2023. Such a shift indicates a growing recognition of the college as a global destination for graduate studies in the arts. This can be attributed to various factors, including the internationalization of education, enhanced global collaboration, and the institution's reputation in creative fields.

Moreover, the overall trend highlights the increasing diversity within the student population, which is essential for fostering creativity and innovation in arts education. As more international students enroll, they bring unique perspectives and ideas, enriching the academic environment.

However, the fluctuations in total enrollment numbers and international student ratios can also be linked to broader geopolitical and economic factors, such as visa policies and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which have impacted student mobility. As educational institutions navigate these changes, it will be crucial for California College of the Arts to continue adapting its strategies to attract and support a diverse student body, ensuring both inclusivity and excellence in education.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$82,325

Undergraduate tuition
$60,226
Room and board
$22,099
Graduate tuition
$63,430
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 86%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$80.4M

Tuition and fees
$47.3M58.8%
Gifts and private grants
$18.7M23.3%
Investment return
$7.7M9.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.3M7.8%
Government grants and contracts
$397K0.5%

Expenses$76.0M

Instruction
$33.2M43.7%
Institutional support
$19.3M25.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$8.4M11.1%
Academic support
$7.8M10.3%
Student services
$7.2M9.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

All faculty
$88,964peers $68,014
Professor
$100,372peers $81,680
Associate professor
$85,361peers $73,404
Assistant professor
$75,455peers $62,138

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near the California College of the Arts:

  1. Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford is a prestigious research university located in Stanford, California, known for its exceptional academic programs and beautiful campus.

  2. University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty, making it one of the top public universities in the United States.

  3. University of California-Los Angeles - Also ranked 15th, UCLA is recognized for its vibrant campus life and strong programs across various disciplines, particularly in the arts and sciences.

  4. University of California-Santa Barbara - Ranked 35th, UCSB is known for its beautiful coastal location and strong emphasis on research and innovation.

  5. University of San Francisco - This university is ranked 115th and is known for its commitment to social justice and community service, offering a diverse range of programs.

  6. Santa Clara University - With a rank of 60, Santa Clara is a Jesuit university offering a strong liberal arts education and a focus on ethical leadership.

These schools provide a range of academic opportunities and are valuable options for students considering their higher education paths.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
7
Motor vehicle theft
4
Drug referrals
4
Liquor referrals
4
Stalking
4
Aggravated assault
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at California College of the Arts

The crime data from California College of the Arts over the past decade reveals notable fluctuations in crime rates, which warrant attention. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively low, with 3.29 incidents per 1,000 students. However, by 2015, this figure had escalated to 7.41, indicating a concerning rise in criminal activity on campus. The years that followed saw a decline, with 2020 and 2021 reporting the lowest rates at 1.72 and 1.24 respectively. This decrease may reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in reduced campus activity and student presence.

Interestingly, there was a resurgence in crime rates in 2022 with a rate of 4.29, and a significant jump to 7.99 in 2023. Such spikes can often be attributed to increased reporting and changes in campus policy or student behavior. The data indicates a clear need for continued vigilance and proactive measures by campus authorities to ensure student safety.

Among the specific crime categories, arrests related to firearms and drug-related offenses deserve particular attention. The patterns observed in these areas may reflect broader societal trends, such as the ongoing discussions surrounding gun control and substance abuse, which are prevalent in many educational institutions across the country.

In conclusion, while California College of the Arts has experienced periods of both increased and decreased crime rates, the recent uptick signals a potential need for intervention and enhanced safety measures. The college community must remain aware of these trends and work collaboratively towards creating a safer environment for all students. For further details on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

All 60

Notable alumni of California College of the Arts include Steve Purcell (Cartoonist and co-creator of Sam & Max), Wayne Wang (Hong Kong-American film director and producer) and Dennis Oppenheim (Conceptual artist and sculptor).

See all 60 notable alumni of California College of the Arts →

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.