Extension
Art and design courses for adults are an opportunity to deepen your skills, add to your portfolio, or explore something new.
CCA will wind down its current operations and will close by the end of the 2026-2027 academic year. Vanderbilt will then become the owner of the campus and will establish undergraduate and graduate programming, including art and design programs, at the campus. Read the full announcement.
Extension, Atelier, and Scholastic Art Awards programs will conclude in May 2026. The Young Artist Studio Program (YASP), high school Atelier, and Pre-College programs will not be offered in summer 2026.
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
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.
Year-round classes
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 are offered.
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.
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.
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. Read all CCA Extension Policies.
Explore your interests and broaden your professional path