CalArts’ School of Critical Studies provides various opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience, exposure to diverse opportunities, and financial support.
These programs are designed to enhance academic and career development through teaching roles, creative fellowships, and global exchange initiatives.
Student opportunities
Teaching assistantships
Creative Writing Program students who are interested in gaining experience teaching college-level writing have the opportunity in their second year to serve as teaching assistants in a range of writing-intensive special topics courses at the BFA level.
Each spring, the admissions committee selects five MA Aesthetics and Politics applicants for a Teaching or Research Assistantship. Students interested in a Teaching or Research Assistantship are encouraged to mention this in their application.
Peer tutors
This is a salaried position to assist undergraduates in the Teaching and Learning Center situated in the Library.
Study abroad programs
The Aesthetics and Politics program maintains student exchange programs with a number of schools in Europe. CalArts students interested in going on exchange should visit the Hub to read the requirements and fill out the Exchange Inquiry Form. Students must speak with the Office of International & Community Partnerships and International Student Exchanges during the fall semester to learn about the various programs available the following school year.
Aesthetics and Politics opportunities may include:
- American University of Beirut (AUB) in Beirut
- École Nationale Supérieure d’arts de Paris Cergy (ENSAPC) in Paris
- Goldsmiths College in London
Read more about international exchange opportunities
Postgraduate opportunities
Reef Residency
The School of Critical Studies is pleased to support recent graduates of the MA Aesthetics and Politics Program and MFA Creative Writing Program through the CalArts Reef Residency. Each year, three students from the School of Critical Studies receive access to studio space in a large shared open studio, additional access to exhibition and performance spaces, and a grant to support their work.
See previous Reef residents from the School of Critical Studies
Postgraduate Teaching Fellowship
Each year, the School of Critical Studies awards two Postgraduate Teaching Fellowships to recent graduates of the MFA Creative Writing Program and the MA Aesthetics and Politics Program. Fellows will design and teach a 15-week course and a two-week workshop during the Winter session.
In addition to teaching, Postgraduate Teaching Fellows hold office hours and provide assessment and feedback for undergraduate students in various curriculum categories, including Cultural Studies, Humanities, Computing and Research Skills, Science and Math, Creative Writing, and Social Science. Each Fellow is paired with a faculty mentor for guidance throughout their fellowship.
Fellows receive an $8,000 stipend along with opportunities for professional development and teaching experience. Interested students should reach out to their faculty mentor for more information.