Sacramento, CA, USA
CSSSA is a rigorous, pre-professional summer school for high school artists, supported by the California Legislature and private partners. Over the course of one month, students dive deeply into their chosen art form—animation, dance, film, music, theater, visual arts, or writing — guided by working professionals and master artists. The atmosphere is both demanding and supportive: students refine their technical and creative skills, explore new ideas, and push their artistic boundaries. Community is at the heart of CSSSA, with structured time for interdisciplinary collaboration and peer learning. Students come together not only to practice their craft but also to form lasting connections with like-minded peers.
CSSSA is open to students entering grades 9–12 (and in the summer after high school graduation) who have shown exceptional artistic promise. For young people ready to commit, this program offers a rare opportunity to live and work in a vibrant arts community, receive college-style instruction, and potentially earn academic credit, as successful participants may receive 3 elective units from California State University.
| Ages: | 13–18 |
| Type: | Overnight |
| Month: | Summer |
| Lodging: | Dorm |
| Setting: | City |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Arts: | Fine Arts, Arts & Crafts, Visual Arts, Arts, Film, Improvisation, Musical Theater, Theater, Dance, Ballet, Choreography, Modern Dance, Music, Chamber Music, Concerts, Guitar, Percussion, Piano, Violin |
| Address: | 7801 Folsom Boulevard, Suite 104 Sacramento CA 95826 |
| Sacramento | |
| USA |
| Dates | Days | Price | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04.07.26 - 01.08.26 | 29 | $5,174 | |
| 04.07.26 - 01.08.26 | 29 | $10,475 |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
Students live on the CalArts campus in Chouinard Hall, separated into male, female, and gender-inclusive wings. Rooms typically house three or four students and are furnished with desks, wardrobes, chests of drawers, and twin mattresses. Shared bathrooms serve adjoining suites, and communal living spaces include TV lounges. Wi-Fi is available in rooms, though students must use the shared furnishings respectfully, and CSSSA is not responsible for loss or damage to personal devices.
Residents agree to maintain a clean and safe living environment, adhere to curfews and quiet hours, and follow the check-in and check-out policies. Non-CSSSA guests are not permitted in the dormitories, and there are limits on what items can be brought into rooms (e.g., no art supplies stored in dorms, no musical instruments in rooms).
CSSSA provides full cafeteria privileges for the entire summer session. The cafeteria offers a broad menu with daily hot-feature options (grill), a salad bar, and a sandwich bar, as well as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices to accommodate dietary preferences and needs. Meals are included in the program cost, so students do not need to budget for on-site essentials — though some may choose to use off-campus stores during free time.
Student safety is a high priority at CSSSA. Residents receive ID cards upon arrival, which must be worn at all times and include emergency contact information. The CSSSA session consists of an emergency drill during the first week to familiarize students with exit routes, safety procedures, and campus evacuation zones. Resident Assistants (RAs) live in Chouinard Hall and are trained in first aid and CPR, offering peer-level supervision, conflict mediation, and support. In case of emergencies, students are instructed to contact either RAs or CalArts Campus Safety, with clear protocols in place for reporting incidents or seeking help.
While CSSSA is not a typical "camp" with games and cabins, it does build a strong artistic community and several annual traditions:
These rituals reinforce CSSSA’s dual commitment to craft and community, helping students grow not only in skill but in artistic identity.
CSSSA’s program is structured as a full-time, intensive training environment. Over four weeks, students participate in daily classes, workshops, rehearsals, and projects tailored to their discipline. The curriculum blends technique, theory, and creative practice, often with cross-department opportunities. Students also engage with guest artists, attend seminars, and present work in community gatherings.
