Mission

The Professional Engagement & External Partnerships Office advances academic excellence by integrating industry connections with curriculum-based learning outcomes. We provide comprehensive support and strategic pathways that enhance student development through meaningful engagement with the professional community. Our mission centers on partnerships between academic programs and industry leaders, creating immersive learning experiences that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. Through our faculty's extensive network, we empower students with vital resources and connections within the art and design ecosystem, fostering professional growth and career advancement opportunities."

Vision

At California College of the Arts, we cultivate strategic partnerships with leading design firms, art institutions, and creative organizations to create a dynamic bridge between academia and industry. Our integrated approach includes real-world projects, industry-led workshops, and professional mentorship programs that enrich our students' educational journey. Through carefully structured internship programs, portfolio development initiatives, and industry-evaluated capstone projects, we ensure our students gain practical experience while building meaningful connections within the professional creative community. Our curriculum continuously evolves through ongoing dialogue with industry partners, ensuring our programs remain aligned with current industry trends and professional standards.

Areas of Interest

Public Lecture Series

Each year CCA invites the community to engage with creators driving change across fields forging limitless possibilities for a more just, sustainable, and diverse future with their purpose-driven practice. We oversee and manage public events that involve an external partner. Our support ranges from event planning, organization, documentation, marketing assistance, and staffing.

Guest Speakers + Book Signing + Workshops + Symposiums

Programs host events such as workshops and symposiums inviting external guests and speakers to enrich student experience and conversations with our community artists and designers. We invite lecturers from across the globe to share their professional skills and knowledge through dedicated lectures, book signing, workshops, and symposium events in many of our programs.

Sponsored Studios + Grant Funded Projects

Through a robust network of professionals and community partnerships, CCA students collaborate with creative industries in the Bay Area and beyond to tackle real-world problems with right-now solutions in Sponsored Studios. Along with the Divisional Deans, Program Chairs, and the Advancement team, the External Engagement team administers projects with industry partners.

Internship Support

We work closely with Internship Coordinators, Program Chairs, and the Professional Coaching and Development Team, to support the entire life cycle of each student's internship. The team oversees and manages the student internship process along with Technical Services to ensure proper documentation of student internships.

Professional Coaching and Development Support

Our Professional Coaching and Development Advisory team comprises active industry practitioners who bring contemporary expertise from leading design firms and arts organizations. These distinguished professionals provide personalized mentorship and strategic guidance to CCA students within their respective disciplines. Their direct involvement in the current professional landscape enables them to offer invaluable insights into emerging industry trends, hiring practices, and career advancement opportunities. Through one-on-one mentorship sessions, they help students navigate the evolving demands of the creative industry while building essential professional connections. Click here to find more information.

How to Connect with Us

Does creative collaboration on a project sound interesting to you? Then feel free to contact us by emailing ASAP@cca.edu with your inquiries and ideas, and one of us will get back to you soon!

If you would like to connect with us for professional development guidance or engagement opportunities, email us at CCApro@cca.edu.