California Design Schools and Colleges

Degree Programs: Graphic Design, Game Design, Computer Art & Design, Web Design, Fashion Design, Animation, Interior Design, Architectural Design...
Major Cities: Anaheim, Bakersfield, Fremont, Fresno, Glendale, Huntington Beach, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland, Oxnard, Sacremento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Ana

Looking for an exciting career in fashion design, interior design, graphic design, or game design? Put your creative ideas to work today by pursuing a degree program in the developing areas of web design, visual design, or animation and special effects at one of California’s top design schools. Through 2018, careers in the art and design industries are projected to increase by 13.0% as demand for design services continues to increase from advertisers and design firms. Exciting news for any aspiring designer!

For decades, California has been known as an American design Mecca. Where every new design fad is ushered in like a new gold rush. Where pop culture is discovered and defined, Hollywood meets Wall Street, urban fashion becomes mainstream, and where car and music cultures define generations. California is where movie stars reign and media moguls orchestrate our cultural ills. Where nature clashes with industry and where thousand migrate to each year to seek out innovation and exploration.

Over a quarter of a million students graduate from a California college or university each year, and many of these students quickly find jobs in the state's robust and varied economy. The film and TV production industries are one of the mainstays of California's economy; Los Angeles and Hollywood are the places to be for aspiring filmmakers, digital artists, fashion designers, game designers, and web designers. Excellent opportunities abound for all types of designers in California.

Whether you are looking for a degree in graphic design, commercial art and illustration, drafting, or photography, get creative with your career at Designschools.com.

National Programs: The following schools are accepting students from across the country.

The Art Institutes

The Art Institutes

Bachelor's | Associate's | Certificate | Diploma

The Art Institutes offers associate, bachelor and certificate programs that specialize in the creative arts and design. With over 40 locations in major cities throughout North America, you'll get the competitive edge to succeed as a creative professional - in your field of interest!

Select a Campus: Arlington, VA | Atlanta, GA | Austin, TX | Boston, MA | Charleston, NC | Charlotte, NC | Chicago, IL | Cincinnati, OH | Dallas, TX | Decatur, GA | Denver, CO | Detroit, MI | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Fort Worth, TX | Houston, TX | Indianapolis, IN | Jacksonville, FL | Kansas City, KS | Las Vegas, NV | Los Angeles, CA | Miami, FL | Minneapolis, MN | New York, NY | Nashville, TN | Orange County, CA | Philadelphia, PA | Phoenix, AZ | Pittsburgh, PA | Portland, OR | Raleigh, NC | Salt Lake City | San Bernadino, CA | San Diego | San Francisco, CA | Schaumburg, IL | Seattle, WA | Sunnyvale, CA | Tampa, FL | Tucson, AZ | Vancouver, BC | York, PA

» Also learn about The Art Institutes ONLINE PROGRAMS





About: A rewarding career in the arts begins with talent - and you've got it. Now you just need the right education. At The Art Institute of California - Sacramento, you'll have an opportunity to get the art and design education you need to break into a career in the creative and applied arts. Our school occupies approximately 45,000 square feet, including classrooms, studios, laboratories, offices, student lounges, a library, and an exhibition gallery. Class size is limited to 35 students in lab sessions and 40 students in lecture sessions. Request Information



About: The Art Institute of California-Orange County is a design and culinary arts school providing Bachelor's and Associate's degrees in Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, Media Arts & Animation, Multimedia & Web Design, Culinary Management and Culinary Arts. Located in the heart of Orange County's South Coast Metro region, The Art Institute is ideally situated in close proximity to Orange County¿s thriving business community, cultural attractions, shopping, entertainment and its famous beaches. The school is one of The Art Institutes, with 45+ education institutions located throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary professionals. The Art Institutes have provided career-oriented education programs for over 40 years. Request Information



About: For over 30 years, the Design Institute of San Diego (DISD) has trained students in the fine art of interior design. With a single focus on one BFA program in interior design, DISD fosters a creative learning environment for students that boasts modern facilities and a knowledgeable, professional staff. The BFA program offers flexible day and evening scheduling and is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Education. Request Information



About: The Art Institute of California - San Diego welcomes you to the growing creative community. Located in the heart of San Diego's Mission Valley, you'll find yourself surrounded by a diverse cultural community, a thriving business district, and endless amounts of creative opportunities. At The Art Institute of California - San Diego you can receive the hands-on art and design education you need to begin a career in the creative world. Request Information



Academy of Art University

San Francisco, CA US

About: Founded in 1929, Academy of Art University offers AA, BA, BFA, MA, MFA and M.Arch degrees and portfolio development and certificates in fourteen diverse art and design majors. The Academy offers a unique environment of working professionals who are dedicated to passing on their knowledge and expertise to the artists and designers of tomorrow. Not only is Academy of Art University's San Francisco location both beautiful and exciting, but it is strategic in its proximity to the centers of many creative industries. The Academy's Career Services Department offers assistance to students and alumni in establishing connections with these companies. Academy graduates have been hired by prestigious firms worldwide, including Disney, Sega, Pixar, Hewlett-Packard & Hallmark Cards. Request Information



About: The world is changing so quickly that today we have jobs that didn't exist even five years ago. Most people can't even imagine what career fields will open in the next five years. But at The Art Institute of California - San Francisco, you have your fingers on the pulse. We can lead the way to creative career opportunities by providing art and design education. Request Information



Brooks Institute

Santa Barbara, CA US

About: Brooks Institute is proud to have trained some of the leading visual artists of yesterday and today, and we look forward to inspiring the next generation. We offer a variety of focused Bachelor of Arts degree programs for anyone who aspires to a career in photography, visual journalism, filmmaking, or graphic design. Request Information



About: At The Art Institute of California - Los Angeles, you will join a community that's committed to offering you a nurturing, stimulating environment where you are free to explore your artist's imagination and to stretch your talent and skills. Here you can meet like-minded students who share your passion for the creative world and the drive to learn. Artists who think like you and are excited by the talent you have and challenged by how you will apply it. Request Information



About: The Art Institute of California - Sunnyvale is located in Santa Clara County, California, an area that makes up the world's premiere technology corridor, Silicon Valley. Sunnyvale's local population is only about 150,000, but the surrounding region is home to well over 2 million people. Students are only an hour's drive from the Pacific Ocean and Sunnyvale is also close to California's historic redwood forests. The city is bordered by the San Francisco bay to the north, Mountain View to the west, Santa Clara and San Jose to the east, and Cupertino to the south. The city is ranked as one of the safest in the country by the Morgan Quitno Safest City Award program and students enjoy a year-long mild climate. Request Information



About: At The Art Institute of California - Hollywood, you will find like-minded students-artists who think like you and are excited by the energy you bring. Many of our students come right out of high school, while some have tried different college programs and others are embarking on a career change. What draws these individuals to The Art Institute of California - Hollywood, is a passion for their art - as well as the desire to channel that passion into a career. Request Information



About: At the International Academy of Design and Technology - Sacramento, students can enjoy an interactive learning experience in programs such as fashion design and marketing, visual communication, and interior design. Experienced instructors lead exciting discussions with small classes that can accommodate both traditional and non-traditional students. As a career-oriented institution, IADT is committed to providing academic excellence and is focused on teaching professional skills to help ensure students can launch successful careers after graduation. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle. Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle. Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle. Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle. Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Architecture and Visual Communications are integrative professions that necessitate a commitment to lifelong learning and exploration. This integration requires the mental agility to learn new disciplines and to communicate effectively. The NewSchool of Architecture and Design is dedicated to giving students the skills necessary to adapt and excel in a changing professional environment. In addition to learning their professions, students are instructed in a variety of areas including oral and written communication, computer application, library research, problem analysis and critical thinking. Request Information



About: Since 1980, Platt (Media Arts) College has offered a fast-paced and challenging curriculum which focuses on current techniques in 3D Animation, Digital Video Production, Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Multimedia and Web Design. Earn your Bachelors of Science Degree in Media Arts in just 2 1/2 years and Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Graphic Design or Multimedia in as little as 15 months. Specialized Diplomas in 3D Animation, Digital Video Production and Web Design. Morning, afternoon and evening courses available. Career Services Department provides job preparation and job placement assistance. Financial aid is available to qualified students. NO application, out-of-state, lab or printing fees. FREE Parking to all students. Request Information



San Francisco Art Institute

San Francisco, CA US

About: Founded in 1871, SFAI is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges of art in the US. SFAI is internationally renowned for leading the investigation and definition of contemporary art and the role of artists in global society. SFAI emphasizes vision, imagination, intellectual development, hands-on experience, and engagement with the world. Art making is defined by a broad spectrum of forms, philosophies, and aesthetic approaches, and does not presume distinctions between fine and applied art or the arts and other disciplines. Inspiration can come from anywhere: popular culture, art history, nature, politics, religion, science, cross-cultural experiences, community relationships. The faculty encourage students to be self-motivated and self-directed, and provide guidance and support. Artistic, personal, and intellectual development is fused so that the process of making work is a life-enriching experience and prepares students for a creative life. Ideally located, the main campus on Russian Hill overlooks the San Francisco Bay and the Graduate Center on Third Street is in the heart of an artist loft district. SFAI offers BA, BFA, MA, and MFA programs, and innovative Summer MFA, post-baccalaureate, and pre-college programs. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information