California Institute of the Arts vs NorthWestern

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary areas of focus at CalArts and Northwestern?

  CalArts is renowned for its focus on visual and performing arts, offering specialized programs in areas like animation, film, music, theater, and dance. Northwestern University, while also having strong arts programs, is a comprehensive research university with a broader range of disciplines, including journalism, communication, engineering, law, and business, in addition to its arts offerings.

• How do the academic environments differ between CalArts and Northwestern?

  CalArts emphasizes an experimental and interdisciplinary approach to arts education, encouraging students to push creative boundaries. Northwestern offers a more traditional academic structure, combining rigorous coursework with research opportunities across various fields. Northwestern also has a quarter system, which means a faster pace of learning compared to CalArts' semester system.

• What types of arts programs are offered at each institution?

  CalArts offers specialized programs in animation, film/video, music, theater, dance, art, and creative writing. Northwestern offers programs in theater, music, dance, art theory and practice, and film, but also integrates these arts programs within a larger liberal arts context, allowing for interdisciplinary studies with other departments like communication and journalism.

• What is the typical class size and student-to-faculty ratio at each school?

  CalArts generally has smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio, fostering a more intimate and collaborative learning environment. Northwestern, while also prioritizing student engagement, tends to have larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses, but still maintains a respectable student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention.

• Where are CalArts and Northwestern located, and how does location impact student life?

  CalArts is located in Valencia, California, near Los Angeles, providing students with access to the entertainment industry and a vibrant arts scene. Northwestern University has two campuses: one in Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, and another in downtown Chicago. This location offers students access to a major metropolitan area with diverse cultural, professional, and social opportunities.

• What are the career prospects like for graduates of CalArts and Northwestern?

  CalArts graduates often pursue careers in the entertainment industry, fine arts, and design, benefiting from the school's strong industry connections and alumni network. Northwestern graduates find opportunities in a wider range of fields, including media, journalism, business, technology, law, and the arts, leveraging the university's strong reputation and diverse academic programs.

• How do the campus cultures compare between CalArts and Northwestern?

  CalArts has a highly creative and collaborative campus culture, where students are encouraged to experiment and take risks in their artistic pursuits. Northwestern offers a more diverse campus culture, with a mix of students from various academic backgrounds and interests, fostering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment.

• What are the admission requirements and acceptance rates for CalArts and Northwestern?

  CalArts admission is heavily based on artistic talent and portfolio review, with a focus on creativity and potential. Northwestern admission is highly competitive and considers academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays. Northwestern generally has a lower acceptance rate than CalArts, reflecting its broader appeal and academic selectivity.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid availability at each institution?

  Both CalArts and Northwestern have significant costs of attendance. Both institutions offer financial aid packages, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students finance their education. The specific amount of aid awarded varies based on individual financial need and academic merit. It's best to check each school's financial aid website for the most up-to-date information.

• Does one school have a stronger reputation in a specific artistic discipline?

  CalArts is particularly renowned for its animation and experimental film programs. Northwestern has a very strong reputation for its theater program, particularly musical theater, and its journalism and communication programs are also highly regarded.

• What are the opportunities for interdisciplinary studies at each school?

  CalArts encourages interdisciplinary collaboration within the arts, allowing students to combine different artistic disciplines in their projects. Northwestern offers more formal interdisciplinary programs, allowing students to combine arts studies with other fields like journalism, communication, or business through dual degrees or minors.

• How do the alumni networks compare between CalArts and Northwestern?

  CalArts has a strong alumni network within the entertainment and arts industries, particularly in animation, film, and music. Northwestern has a broader alumni network spanning various fields, including media, business, law, and the arts, providing graduates with diverse career opportunities and connections.