BA Art at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

The Art Department's innovative, interdisciplinary studio art program focuses on the power of visual communication for personal expression and public interaction. Students learn hands-on skills in a variety of fine arts mediums alongside rigorous conceptual approaches to critical thinking and art making.

Faculty: Arts Division | Department: Art | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses listed in the catalogue include D2D Foundation, E3D Foundation, F4D Foundation, Introduction to Print Media and Drawing, Introduction to Sculpture and Public Art, Introduction to Photography.

Career pathways

Our goal is to prepare students for creative participation in a rapidly changing world.The bachelor of arts degree prepares students for dynamic careers within the visual arts.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Catalogue preparation guidance for the major (admission to the university is separate): All students qualify for the major after completing two courses from the list below or their equivalent. Transfer students who have successfully passed the portfolio review have these courses waived, and therefore are eligible to declare the major.

Domestic applicants: USD 14,202 a year (2026-27). UC undergraduate Tuition for California residents first enrolled in 2026-27 (Tuition Stability Plan cohort rate); one rate for all undergraduate majors. Excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees, UC SHIP health insurance and records fee. Non-residents ad Source

Fall quarter entry (classes for fall 2026 began September 24, 2026); winter quarter entry (winter 2027 instruction begins January 4, 2027).

UC Application for fall 2027 opens October 1, 2026 and the filing deadline is November 30, 2026; the application is available online from August 1, 2026. Fall 2027 first-year decisions appear on the Admissions Portal late February to mid-March 2027; transfer decisions April 1-30, 2027. Transfer Academic Update due January 31, 2027; UCSC TAG filing period September 1-30, 2026.

UC Santa Cruz does not use ACT/SAT scores in its comprehensive review and selection process. Applications are made through the UC Application. Minimum GPA is 3.00 for California residents and 3.40 for non-residents and international applicants.

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