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An abstract assortment of sweeping lines and forms in electric colors of blue, pink, red, yellow, and green that appears to be made of light.

CalArts’ newest BFA offering is a dynamic, interdisciplinary program where code becomes a medium for artistic expression and technological experimentation. Beyond technical proficiency, the program encourages students to approach technology as a tool for storytelling, cultural critique, and aesthetic exploration. Situating computation within the framework of artistic practice, the Creative Computing BFA degree prepares you to lead and innovate in the ever-evolving world of digital art and be among those defining the creative industries of the future.

An assemblage of drums and other objects glow in tones or red and green while lit with a black light. Several people are observing the artwork.

CalArts’ four-year BFA in Creative Computing equips students with both the artistic historical context and engineering skills necessary to chart the future of the creative industries. With a curriculum built by artists who are defining new media practices, you’ll learn to master the technical side of creativity while developing a strong personal voice.

Creative Computing at CalArts is a forward-thinking interdisciplinary program that fuses the power of computational engineering skills with the limitless possibilities of artistic expression. This innovative degree—among the first in existence—encourages students to explore the intersection of technology and creativity, using computational tools to craft work that is both personally and culturally meaningful, while preparing them for careers in industries that are focused on the future. The curriculum is designed to provide an integrative learning experience that equips you with the skills to push the boundaries of art, music, and technology. With a strong foundation in computer science, electrical engineering, signal processing, and emerging technologies including virtual/augmented reality, robotics, and machine learning, you’ll be empowered to innovate, experiment, and reimagine what technology can do in artistic contexts.

View our step-by-step application guide to learn more. 

Students in the Creative Computing program have the opportunity to tailor their studies by choosing one of five distinct specializations.

Explore the relationship between sound and technology, from compositional practice for experimental sound, to the development of new musical digital instruments.

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Learn to design and create interactive experiences that engage audiences through motion, touch, and other sensory interactions, working with robotics, as well as AR/VR.

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Dive into the art and science of game development, focusing on mechanics, narrative, and player experience.

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Master the tools and techniques of digital media to create compelling visual work for various platforms, including mobile, web, and immersive projection experiences.

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Investigate the creative potential of AI, from generative systems and machine learning to intelligent interactive systems that push the boundaries of creativity and artistic expression.

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This program benefits from faculty who are situated in programs across CalArts schools. At CalArts, 100% of our faculty are working artists, and faculty and students collaborate as they teach, learn, and work together as members of our community of artists. 

We got you. Our Admissions team is all about providing the information you need to decide if CalArts is right for you. We’re excited to connect with you for a tour of our legendary campus, a virtual info session, or at one of our admissions events across the country or around the world. Take the next step—we’re here to help.