Extension

Art and design courses for adults are an opportunity to deepen your skills, add to your portfolio, or explore something new.

About

Non-credit courses designed for adults

Create on campus or meet online

Curiosity and self expression have their own timeline. One individual’s creative path is unique to any other’s. That’s why CCA offers a wide range of non-credit courses designed for adults (age 18+) to pursue new dimensions of professional, intellectual, and creative development. We champion the continued education of former art and design school students just as strongly as we nurture beginners of any age. All you need is an interest in making something new to you.

  • Accessible, multi-week learning experiences
  • Evenings and weekends
  • In-person classes meet in San Francisco
  • Online courses meet live on Zoom

Courses

Study at a top-ranked art and design school

A student sprays a photograph in the Rayko photo studio.

Pick from a range of disciplines

CCA’s blend of theory and practice inspires our students and faculty to make work that matters. CCA Extension courses are driven by a similar purpose — to help adults shape culture and society through the hands-on practice and critical study of art, architecture, design, and writing. Upcoming courses for foundations and fundamentals build on each other throughout the year so you can pursue creative practice at whatever pace fits you best.

Spring 2025 classes

Registration is open for spring 2025. Courses in Fashion Design, Jewelry, Sculpture, Textiles, Animation and Comics, Drawing & Painting, Architecture & Interior Design, Creative Software, Communication Design, Creative Practice, Illustration and Printmedia, and more will be offered.

The spring session begins in February, with single-weekend and multi-week options.

Registration

Register now for upcoming courses

Learn a new skill or deepen your practice

To attend a CCA Extension course, you will need to register and pay the course tuition and fees in full. Courses are populated on a first-come, first-served basis, so prepare to register early for your course, or courses, of choice. Our small class sizes offer a personalized learning experience and enable stronger connections between you and your instructors, peers, and creative work.

Steps to register online

  1. Select the course you plan to attend, click the "Add to Cart" button. To add more courses, select “Continue Shopping.” If you are ready to finalize your selection, click “Checkout.”
  2. Enter your payment information, review your order, and confirm you agree with the CCA Extension refund policies.
  3. Check your email. All registrations are confirmed by email within 48 to 72 hours via automatically generated messages. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please email [email protected]. Students who do not receive a confirmation email are still liable for the tuition of CCA Extension courses for which they have registered. Read all CCA Extension Policies.

Key dates

Aug 01

Fall Extension registration opens

Register for fall Extension courses.

Oct 01
Dec 15

Fall Extension program

Courses are held October through early December.

Dec 15

Spring Extension registration opens

Register for spring Extension courses.

Feb 01
Apr 30

Spring Extension program

Courses are held February through April.

Mar 01

Summer Extension registration open

Register for summer Extension courses.

May 01
Jun 30

Summer Extension session 1

Session 1 is held May through June.

Jul 01
Aug 20

Summer Extension session 2

Session 2 is held July through August.

Support & FAQs

Expand your potential at CCA Extension

Connect to a community of makers

We believe creativity is a lifelong experience that expands the potential of communities and individuals alike. How can we help? Email us anytime at [email protected].

Frequently asked questions

How much does CCA Extension cost?

Costs vary by course and are listed on CCA Extension’s course descriptions and registration page. We offer a 25% discount for employees of educational institutions, including middle and high school teachers, higher education professionals, and community-based or nonprofit arts organizations. Email [email protected] for more information.

Is there a fee for materials?

CCA Extension students will need to purchase all required consumable materials unless otherwise noted as included in the course tuition.

What payment methods do you accept?

CCA accepts credit card, cash, and personal check or money orders payable to California College of the Arts (a $25 fee will be charged for any returned check). Online registration requires a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). Read all CCA Extension Policies.

Do you offer refunds?

To request a CCA Extension tuition refund, you must formally withdraw by written notice to [email protected]. Read all CCA Extension Policies.

Creative Offsites

Organize your company retreat at CCA

Bring inspiration to your next team offsite with custom art and design retreats. Choose from tailored workshops in painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and more. Available in 3-6 hour sessions during the week, evenings, or weekends.

Explore your interests and broaden your professional path

See courses