Art University of California, Santa Barbara

Overview

The Art programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara offers a unique environment for students dedicated to pursuing professional careers in the visual arts. This curriculum focuses on the practice of studio art while exploring historical and contemporary concepts, methods, and movements in the field.

Students benefit from a highly individualised course of study overseen by dedicated faculty advisors who support the creation of original work. The educational experience is enriched by the ability to take courses across various campus departments, including Media Arts and Technology and the History of Art and Architecture.

The residency culminates in a solo exhibition during the senior year, allowing students to showcase a mature body of work to the public.

Why Art at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The College of Creative Studies provides a distinctive teaching model where students work independently at a high level within a supportive community. Facilities include the dedicated CCS Art Gallery, which regularly showcases student work and hosts local community exhibitions throughout the academic year.

Distinctive features of the programme include the Traveling Undergraduate Research Fund, which provides financial support for creative activities and research projects. Students also have the unique opportunity to install temporary sculptural and spatial artworks across the campus through cross-listed courses.

The programme emphasises a mentorship-based approach, ensuring that each student receives personal guidance to refine their artistic voice. This structure encourages interdisciplinary exploration and allows for a flexible yet rigorous path toward achieving professional artistic excellence.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 14934 per year
• National fee: USD 14934 per year
• Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a balance of studio practice and theoretical study to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the arts. Modules may include:

• Painting
• Sculpture
• Spatial Art
• Drawing
• Installation and Site-specific Works
• Performance
• Media Projection and Sound
• Public Art
• Book Arts
• Typography
• Books and Print Technologies
• Relief Printing
• Letterpress Printing
• Book Binding
• Papermaking
• Photography
• Digital Media
• 3-D Media
• Art History
• Theory
• Criticism

Careers with Art

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the professional art world through mandatory internships that provide real-world experience. Students have previously secured placements with prestigious art institutions, architectural firms, and professional design studios to enhance their employability.

The programme supports career paths in various creative industries, including professional studio practice, gallery management, and commercial design. Many students also pursue research-based roles or continue their education in graduate programmes focused on media arts, technology, or art history.

By working under the supervision of industry professionals and faculty, students develop the networking skills and technical proficiency required for success. The focus on creating a professional portfolio and hosting solo exhibitions provides a significant advantage when entering the competitive global art market.