Master's in Aesthetics and Politics (MA)

California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) is a prestigious institution renowned for its comprehensive arts education and innovative programs. With a strong emphasis on creativity and experimentation, CalArts provides students with a platform to explore their artistic interests and develop their unique creative voices. At CalArts, students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and push the boundaries of traditional artistic practices. The university boasts a faculty of experienced artists and industry professionals who provide valuable guidance and mentorship to students, nurturing their artistic development and helping them thrive in their chosen fields. With its vibrant artistic community, state-of-the-art facilities, and a focus on fostering a culture of artistic innovation, California Institute of the Arts continues to be a leading institution for aspiring artists seeking to make a meaningful impact in the creative world.

The Aesthetics and Politics Program offers a dynamic and intensive experience that develops a shared vocabulary and critical framework in which we discuss phenomena ranging from the Arab Spring to neo-benshi, from bioart to neoliberalism, from human rights to queer hiphop and third world cinema. Students develop ideas through presenting ongoing written work in a discursive environment with peers and are encouraged to focus their work by choosing credits from a list of elective courses. The Program offers a set of core courses in aesthetic theory, political thought, critical discourse in the arts and the media, and theoretical writing that are the foundation of the degree. In addition, students are able to specialize in one of three areas of concentration—critical theory, global studies, or media and urban studies—to work towards a written thesis (a 5,000-word/50-page scholarly work) submitted at the end of the program. The Program values individual development by providing one-to-one mentorship with specialists within your field, student fora and a rich variety of internationally renowned visiting speakers.