Attending CSSSA
CSSSA is the premier pre-professional training program for high school-aged artists in California. We are committed to providing transformative opportunities that empower students to pursue their artistic passions while preparing for a successful future in the arts and beyond.
What You Will Experience
TRANSFORMATIVE OPPORTUNITIES
Our unique, intensive program offers an experience that will push you to elevate your skills and expand your creative boundaries. At CSSSA, you will hone your craft through immersive, hands-on classes and personalized arts instruction. Learn directly from industry professionals, through our faculty showcases, guest artist series, and masterclasses. Experience arts and culture in Los Angeles through CSSSA’s optional field trips.
LIVE LIKE A COLLEGE STUDENT
Students experience life as a college student in our fully residential program on a college campus. Gain independence while building a sense of community. Students stay in dorms with roommates, dine at the café with friends, and practice their art in world-class facilities. This unique experience will enhance your artistic growth and help you develop essential life skills for the future.
INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION
Students can participate in interdisciplinary projects and attend evening events to engage with students from other disciplines. Our Arts Advocacy Day offers workshops that encourage cross-disciplinary learning and support for the arts.
BOOST COLLEGE AND CAREER POSSIBILITIES
At CSSSA, you’ll gain invaluable skills that will boost your college and career prospects. Our rigorous curriculum is designed to strengthen your technical skills and build your portfolio. While at CSSSA, you’ll showcase your work in a supportive yet professional setting. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to earn three (3) college credits and be named a California Arts Scholar.
BECOME PART OF A LIFELONG COMMUNITY OF ARTISTS
While on campus, you’ll make lasting and meaningful connections with other young artists who are just like you! Many students have reported “finding their people” while at CSSSA. Our program provides direct access to industry professionals and visiting artists, offering unique opportunities for mentorship and professional networking. Additional personal and professional networking opportunities are available through the CSSSA Alumni Network.
Is CSSSA For Me?
CSSSA is a perfect fit for aspiring young creatives with a dedication to craft and ambition for success. Read on to find out more about how CSSSA will not only prepare you for a future in your desired medium, but will also connect you to like-minded creatives who share the same unique passion.
HEAR DIRECTLY FROM OUR FACULTY ABOUT CSSSA’S UNPARALLELED STUDENT EXPERIENCE:
GRADUATING FROM CSSSA
Students who successfully graduate from CSSSA are named California Arts Scholars.
Additionally, students are eligible to receive three (3) units of college credit from Humboldt State University College of Extended Education.
In partnership with The Herb Alpert Foundation, twenty-one (21) CSSSA students are selected each year to receive college scholarships. The awards include three in each of seven categories: animation, film, writing, dance, music, theater and visual arts. Within each category, two students receive one-time awards of $2,500, and one student, a $40,000 college scholarship.
CSSSA graduates are eligible for college discounts through the CSSSA Foundation College Partnerships.
The CSSSA Alumni Network connects alumni across generations, from undergraduate students to industry professionals. Special alumni events are designed for personal and professional development and provide valuable networking opportunities.
