Overview
California College of the Arts was founded in 1907 by Frederick Meyer as the San Francisco Institute of Art, evolving over the decades into one of the most respected independent art and design schools in the United States. Originally established in Berkeley as an arts and crafts school, CCA expanded its mission to encompass fine arts, design, architecture, and writing, building a reputation for rigorous, interdisciplinary creative education. The college is particularly well known for its industrial design, architecture, and graphic design programs, as well as its strong ties to the San Francisco Bay Area's design and technology industries.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | San Francisco, California |
| Founded | 1907 |
| Total students | 1,450 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 9:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 88% |
| Graduation rate | 62% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $54,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $54,000 |
| Room & board | $16,500 |
| Average financial aid | $25,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 75% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.40 |
| Regular deadline | January 10 |
Top Programs
- Industrial Design
- Architecture
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Fine Arts
- Writing and Literature
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.