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California Institute of the Arts

BFA Experience Design and Production: Admission Requirements (Theater)

The BFA Experience Design and Production program is comprehensive in scope, with the expectation that students will explore multiple métier offerings in the design program, while also having the opportunity to pursue an individualized course of study following the first two years.

Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the BFA Experience Design and Production program, faculty, facilities, and curriculum.

You cannot make any changes to your application after it has been submitted.

Application

Create an account to begin the application process. This is where you’ll complete each step in the application and receive updates on your application status. Add your personal background and academic history.

Artist statement

Your artist’s statement should discuss your goals and their relationship to your past experience, as well as evidence of your interest in performance-based design whether in theater, film, installation, writing, or other related forms.

Maximum length of one page single spaced or two pages double spaced.

Resume

We ask that you upload your resume as part of the online application.

Portfolio

Applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and interests are encouraged to apply. Your portfolio submission should reflect your primary areas of interest and artistic strength. The BFA Experience Design and Production portfolio may include the following as applicable:

  • Examples of drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, or other artwork.
  • Examples of graphic and drafting skills.
  • Examples of theater design, including models, sketches, costume designs, light plots, prompt books and photographs of props, scenery, and costumes.
  • Digital Media that documents your sound designs, including any accompanying paperwork (cue sheets, equipment lists, drafting, etc.).
  • If applicable, include scores, original music compositions, and evidence of computer literacy; indicate if you play a musical instrument.
  • Examples of work that show your craft skills in scenery constructions, painting, props, and/or costuming and lighting, including photographs of realized work, drawings, drafting, samples, patterns, and artistic ideas.
  • Examples of created video work and installations.
  • Documentation of fully realized original work as demonstrated by video, slides, or photographs of designs, and/or documentation of works-in-progress.
  • Architectural drawing, textile work, performance art, and video work are also welcome.

If you experience technical difficulties while uploading your portfolio, please email admissions@calarts.edu.

Video introduction

In 60-90 seconds, please describe your interest in the theater and its interrelated creative environments of immersive entertainment and experimental live performance. Videos will not be viewed beyond the time limit.

  • Duration: minimum of 60 seconds, maximum of 90 seconds.
  • Speak directly to the camera.
  • Do not read from a prepared statement.
  • No edits.
  • No special effects or on-screen overlays.
  • File should be uploaded or linked directly to the portfolio section of the CalArts application.
  • Does not require professional-level equipment; cellphone cameras or consumer cameras are okay.

Interview

You’ll be contacted directly if an interview is requested by the faculty. Not all candidates will be invited to interview. The location and format of the interview (virtual or in-person) will be determined after you receive your invitation to interview. To be considered for admission to CalArts, you’ll need to first complete the admissions application requirements and the online portfolio. The online application must be submitted before an interview will be scheduled.