California Institute of the Arts

known as CalArts

U.S. private institution of higher learning in Valencia. Created in 1961 through the merger of two other art institutes, it was the first in the U.S. to specialize in degree programs for the visual and performing arts. It consists of five schools—art, dance, film and video, music, and theatre—and a division of critical studies. All schools award B.F.A. and M.F.A. degrees. A community arts program sponsors work with young students in disadvantaged areas of Los Angeles.

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