2026-2027 Academic Catalog

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  • Graduate Admission Requirements for International Applicants

    MFA and MA Application Requirements for Color & Materials Design, Transportation Design and User Experience Design

    Bachelor’s or Master’s level Degree Transcript

    Upload a current transcript (unofficial or official electronic version) of your transcript. Official copies will be requested if offered admissions.

    International Applicants: Submit a certified English translation of your transcript(s). The documents should include the translation of your courses along with the school’s official grading scale, so that we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average for all years attended in your bachelor’s degree.

    Official copies of all transcripts confirming graduation from a college or university, must be one file prior to the Add/Drop Deadline of the student’s initial start term, and is required for matriculation.

    Statement of Purpose

    Upload a statement of purpose (500-1000 words) that outlines your objectives for seeking an MFA at CCS and addresses the following:

    What is your motivation for studying design?
    What are you hoping to achieve in your graduate education? Career path and/or personal enrichment?
    Why do you think CCS is the place for you?
    What characteristics, both personal and professional, do you feel you will contribute to a team-based project?
    This document serves as your writing sample and should include your areas of interest and influences on your design/thinking practice.

    CV/Resume

    Submit a current resume/curriculum vitae detailing your educational, work and community service/volunteer experience.

    Letters of Recommendation

    Provide two (2) recommendation letters. Recommendations should come from individuals who are able to address your creative ability, academic and/or professional record, learning style and potential for graduate education. At least one letter should be provided by an academic reference or professional supervisors. Applicants can submit up to three (3) recommendation letters as part of your application.

    Application Fee

    Submit a $18 non-refundable application fee prior to finalizing your application.

    Additional Requirements for International Students

    English Proficiency Exam

    All applicants whose primary and/or native language is not English must submit TOEFL or IELTS general exam scores. Request scores be sent to CCS electronically by the exam agency (ETS or Cambridge English Assessment). Our TOEFL (ETS) code is 1035.

    Minimum scores

    TOEFL- Internet version: 80; paper-based version: composite score of 527; computer-based: 197

    IELTS

    6.5

    If the primary language of instruction for your undergraduate degree was English, you can request the requirement be waived in your SlideRoom application. Please provide a direct link to institutions website with details of the language of instruction. Applicants requesting a waiver will be contacted directly by the Office of Graduate Admissions regarding the decision.

    Transcripts

    Upload provide a certified English translation of your transcripts, along with the school’s official grading scale, so we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average. Please also provide an English translated degree certificate, if available.

    Passport

    Submit a current scanned copy of your passport.

    All submissions are subject to CCS’ Academic Integrity Policy. Works submitted must be your own original works; reference and inspiration images should be labeled as such.

    Students with Disabilities and Requesting Accommodations

    CCS Nondiscrimination Policy

    MFA and MA Application Requirements for Interdisciplinary Design and Media

    Graduate Program Application Form

    Enter general personal and educational information.

    Bachelor’s or Master’s level Degree Transcript

    Upload a current transcript (unofficial or official electronic version) of your transcript. Official copies will be requested if offered admissions.

    International Applicants

    Submit a certified English translation of your transcript(s). The documents should include the translation of your courses along with the school’s official grading scale, so that we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average for all years attended in your bachelor’s degree.

    Official copies of all transcripts confirming graduation from a college or university, must be one file prior to the Add/Drop Deadline of the student’s initial start term, and is required for matriculation.

    Personal Statement

    Upload a statement of purpose (500-1000 words) that outlines your objectives for seeking an MFA at CCS and addresses the following:

    1. What is your motivation for studying design?
    2. What are you hoping to achieve in your graduate education? Career path and/or personal enrichment?
    3. Why do you think CCS is the place for you?
    4. What characteristics, both personal and professional, do you feel you will contribute to a team-based project?

    This document serves as your writing sample and should include your areas of interest and influences on your design/thinking practice.

    CV/Resume

    Submit a current resume/curriculum vitae detailing your educational, work and community service/volunteer experience.

    Letters of Recommendation

    Provide two (2) recommendation letters. Recommendations should come from individuals who are able to address your creative ability, academic and/or professional record, learning style and potential for graduate education. At least one letter should be provided by an academic reference or professional supervisors. Applicants can submit up to three (3) recommendation letters as part of your application.

    Application Fee

    Submit a $18 non-refundable application fee prior to finalizing your application.

    Additional Requirements for International Students

    English Proficiency Exam

    All applicants whose primary and/or native language is not English must submit TOEFL or IELTS general exam scores. Request scores be sent to CCS electronically by the exam agency (ETS or Cambridge English Assessment). Our TOEFL (ETS) code is 1035.

    Minimum scores

    TOEFL- Internet version: 80; paper-based version: composite score of 527; computer-based: 197

    IELTS

    6.5

    If the primary language of instruction for your undergraduate degree was English, you can request the requirement be waived in your SlideRoom application. Please provide a direct link to institutions website with details of the language of instruction. Applicants requesting a waiver will be contacted directly by the Office of Graduate Admissions regarding the decision.

    Transcripts

    Upload provide a certified English translation of your transcripts, along with the school’s official grading scale, so we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average. Please also provide an English translated degree certificate, if available.

    Passport

    Submit a current scanned copy of your passport.

    All submissions are subject to CCS’ Academic Integrity Policy. Works submitted must be your own original works; reference and inspiration images should be labeled as such.

    Students with Disabilities and Requesting Accommodations

    CCS Nondiscrimination Policy

    MFA and MA Application Requirements for Design for Sustainability

    Graduate Program Application Form

    Enter general personal and educational information.

    Slide Deck

    The Graduate Program in Design for Sustainability welcomes applicants from a wide range of academic disciplines and professional backgrounds. While a traditional art and design portfolio is not required, applicants are asked to submit a visual presentation featuring 2 to 3 examples of relevant work, either of their own or by other designers and artists whose work has influenced their perspectives on sustainability and climate change.

    Bachelor’s or Master’s level Degree Transcript

    Upload a current transcript (unofficial or official electronic version) of your transcript. Official copies will be requested if offered admissions.

    International Applicants

    Submit a certified English translation of your transcript(s). The documents should include the translation of your courses along with the school’s official grading scale, so that we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average for all years attended in your bachelor’s degree.

    Official copies of all transcripts confirming graduation from a college or university, must be one file prior to the Add/Drop Deadline of the student’s initial start term, and is required for matriculation.

    Personal Statement

    Upload a statement of purpose (500-1000 words) that outlines your objectives for seeking an MFA at CCS and addresses the following:

    1. What is your motivation for studying design?
    2. What are you hoping to achieve in your graduate education? Career path and/or personal enrichment?
    3. Why do you think CCS is the place for you?
    4. What characteristics, both personal and professional, do you feel you will contribute to a team-based project?

    This document serves as your writing sample and should include your areas of interest and influences on your design/thinking practice.

    CV/Resume

    Submit a current resume/curriculum vitae detailing your educational, work and community service/volunteer experience.

    Letters of Recommendation

    Provide two (2) recommendation letters. Recommendations should come from individuals who are able to address your creative ability, academic and/or professional record, learning style and potential for graduate education. At least one letter should be provided by an academic reference or professional supervisors. Applicants can submit up to three (3) recommendation letters as part of your application.

    Application Fee

    Submit a $18 non-refundable application fee prior to finalizing your application.

    Additional Requirements for International Students

    English Proficiency Exam

    All applicants whose primary and/or native language is not English must submit TOEFL or IELTS general exam scores. Request scores be sent to CCS electronically by the exam agency (ETS or Cambridge English Assessment). Our TOEFL (ETS) code is 1035.

    Minimum scores

    TOEFL- Internet version: 80; paper-based version: composite score of 527; computer-based: 197

    IELTS

    6.5

    If the primary language of instruction for your undergraduate degree was English, you can request the requirement be waived in your SlideRoom application. Please provide a direct link to institutions website with details of the language of instruction. Applicants requesting a waiver will be contacted directly by the Office of Graduate Admissions regarding the decision.

    Transcripts

    Upload provide a certified English translation of your transcripts, along with the school’s official grading scale, so we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average. Please also provide an English translated degree certificate, if available.

    Passport

    Submit a current scanned copy of your passport.

    All submissions are subject to CCS’ Academic Integrity Policy. Works submitted must be your own original works; reference and inspiration images should be labeled as such.

    Students with Disabilities and Requesting Accommodations

    CCS Nondiscrimination Policy

    MPS Application Requirements for User Experience Design1

    Bachelor’s or Master’s level Degree Transcript

    Upload a current transcript (unofficial or official electronic version) of your transcript. Official copies will be requested if offered admissions.

    International Applicants

    Submit a certified English translation of your transcript(s). The documents should include the translation of your courses along with the school’s official grading scale, so that we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average for all years attended in your bachelor’s degree.

    Official copies of all transcripts confirming graduation from a college or university, must be one file prior to the Add/Drop Deadline of the student’s initial start term, and is required for matriculation.

    Statement of Purpose

    Upload a statement of purpose (500-1000 words) that outlines your objectives for seeking an MFA at CCS and addresses the following:

    1. What is your motivation for studying design?
    2. What are you hoping to achieve in your graduate education? Career path and/or personal enrichment?
    3. Why do you think CCS is the place for you?
    4. What characteristics, both personal and professional, do you feel you will contribute to a team-based project?

    This document serves as your writing sample and should include your areas of interest and influences on your design/thinking practice.

    CV/Resume

    Submit a current resume/curriculum vitae detailing your educational, work and community service/volunteer experience.

    Letters of Recommendation

    Provide two (2) recommendation letters. Recommendations should come from individuals who are able to address your creative ability, academic and/or professional record, learning style and potential for graduate education. At least one letter should be provided by an academic reference or professional supervisors. Applicants can submit up to three (3) recommendation letters as part of your application.

    Application Fee

    Submit a $18 non-refundable application fee prior to finalizing your application.

    Additional Requirements for International Students

    The MPS in User Experience Design is an all-online program, and so is not eligible to issue student immigration documents for study in the US. However, international student are welcome to apply and enroll in this program if they plan to attend from outside the US.

    English Proficiency Exam

    All applicants whose primary and/or native language is not English must submit TOEFL or IELTS general exam scores. Request scores be sent to CCS electronically by the exam agency (ETS or Cambridge English Assessment). Our TOEFL (ETS) code is 1035.

    Minimum scores
    TOEFL

    Internet version: 80; paper-based version: composite score of 527; computer-based: 197

    IELTS

    6.5

    If the primary language of instruction for your undergraduate degree was English, you can request the requirement be waived in your SlideRoom application. Please provide a direct link to institutions website with details of the language of instruction. Applicants requesting a waiver will be contacted directly by the Office of Graduate Admissions regarding the decision.

    Transcripts

    Upload provide a certified English translation of your transcripts, along with the school’s official grading scale, so we can convert your grades and/or an accumulative Grade Point Average. Please also provide an English translated degree certificate, if available.

    All submissions are subject to CCS’ Academic Integrity Policy. Works submitted must be your own original works; reference and inspiration images should be labeled as such.

    Students with Disabilities and Requesting Accommodations

    CCS Nondiscrimination Policy

    Footnotes

    1. The MPS in User Experience Design is an all-online program. ↩︎

  • Class Level

    Class Level Affects:

    • Registration Periods
      Students at a higher class level will register before students at lower levels
    • Financial Aid
      Class Level determines eligibility for some forms of aid based on the catalog year (set of program requirements) assigned at the time of admission
    • Course Selection
      Some courses are restricted by class level- see the course catalog for details

    Class Level Does not Affect a Student’s Degree Completion Timeline

    • A student may earn 60 credits but if they are not at ‘UCR’ status, they may not be able to earn their degree within two years /four terms.
    • Credit accepted in transfer toward CCS requirements may expedite degree completion only when applied toward a student’s major studio (art and design) requirements. This will vary by program (major).
    • Non-studio (Liberal Arts/General Education) credits earned may not reduce the number of semesters required for completion.

    Undergraduate Students Enrolled in 120+ Credit Degrees (BFAs and BA)

    Class level is determined at the time of admission and at the end of each subsequent semester during which the student is enrolled based on the number of credits earned. Degree-seeking students are classified as follows:

    For students following the 2024/2025 catalog year (or later):

    • Freshmen up to 29.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Sophomores 30 – 59.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Juniors 60 – 89.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Seniors 90 or more credits completed or in progress

    For students following the 2023/2024 catalog year (or prior):

    • Freshmen up to 29.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Sophomores 30 – 62.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Juniors 63 – 92.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Seniors 93 or more credits completed or in progress

      All students, regardless of catalog year, will be eligible for assigned priority registration following the class levels defined for the 2024/2025 guidelines. 
      Financial Aid eligibility will factor in a student’s current assigned catalog year to determine class level.

    Undergraduate Students Enrolled in 90 credit Degrees (3-Year BA and BDes Completion Degrees)

    Class level is determined at the time of admission and at the end of each subsequent semester during which the student is enrolled based on the number of credits earned. Degree-seeking students are classified as follows:

    • First-year students up to 29.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Second-year students – 30 – 59.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Third-year students – 60 or more credits completed or in progress

    Financial Aid eligibility will factor in a student’s current assigned catalog year to determine class level.

    Graduate Students

    Class level is determined at the time of admission and at the end of each subsequent semester during which the student is enrolled based on the number of credits earned. Degree-seeking students are classified as follows:

    • First Year up to 29.5 credits completed or in progress
    • Second Year 30 – 60 credits completed or in progress

  • Tuition Payment Options

    The College offers the following tuition payment options:

    Full payment of tuition and fees at the time of registration (cash, check, money order, credit card [Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover]). International students must make payments by credit card, check (drawn on a U.S. bank), and international money order or through Flywire (formerly PeerTransfer). Payments may be made on-line using Self-Service, by mail, phone, or in person. International payments made using Flywire may go to collegeforcreativestudies.flywire.com.

    Deferred payment of tuition and fees: The balance of tuition and fees, less financial aid and scholarships, is due on August 1st for the fall semester and December 13th for the winter semester. Tuition invoices will no longer be mailed to homes. Please view and pay your invoice online through Self-Service. All payments not received by the due date will be assessed a $25 late fee per billing (see Academic Calendar for specific dates). The College uses email as an official method of communication with students. Students are responsible for reading emails from the College on a timely basis. The failure to read tuition due date email alerts or viewing invoices through Self-Service does not constitute a valid reason for not paying by the due date.

    Third-party billings: Students who are having a third party (such as an employer) pay their tuition must submit an approved voucher (not an application for approval) to the Business Services Department at the time of their registration. Students are responsible for any portion of their tuition and fees that the third party does not cover by the semester due date.

    Interest-free monthly payment plan: The College does offer a payment plan through a third party company. Easy online enrollment, flexible payment options and no interest. For additional information please visit: payplan.officialpayments.com.

  • Tuition Withdrawal and Refunds

    Withdrawal and Refunds

    DeadlineRefund
    Through the 6th business day of classes (for Fall)100% refunded
    Through the 7th business day of classes (for Winter)100% refunded
    Through the 10th business day of classes80% refunded
    Through the 15th business day of classes60% refunded
    Through the 20th business day of classes40% refunded
    Fall and Winter semester withdrawal dates and refund percentages

    Summer Withdrawal and Refunds

    DeadlineRefund
    Through the 8th business day of classes100% refunded
    Through the 15th business day of classes50% refunded
    Summer semester withdrawal dates and refund percentages

    There is no refund for classes dropped after the 20th business day of classes. Students who have not paid the full tuition and who withdraw from classes are obligated to pay for the dropped classes as follows:

    • After the 20th business day of classes, tuition for the dropped classes must be paid in full.
    • The Federal Refund policy will apply to those students who receive Title IV financial aid.

  • Student Responsibilities/Restrictions (holds)

    Students are responsible for taking care of their financial obligations to the College. This includes full payment of tuition and fees, returning library books and materials, returning department equipment and materials and settling all bookstore charges and unpaid parking violations. Students who do not fulfill these obligations will be restricted from receiving certain services. Registrations, grade reports or graduation requests will not be processed for any student who has restrictions (holds) on their record.

  • Internship Program

    The Internship Program allows qualified students to earn academic credit while gaining first-hand experience in their chosen fields. Internships are available to BFA students with a junior or senior ranking and MFA students who completed one year of course work– although it is never too early to begin researching opportunities.  

    Benefits Students Gain by Participating in an Internship

    • Using classroom skills in a real-world employment situation
    • Learning new skills from professionals in one’s chosen field
    • Gaining first-hand work experience prior to graduation
    • Networking with professionals, which may lead to future employment opportunities

    Steps to Pursue an Internship for Credit 

    Internships for credit are intended to replace a studio or elective course in your major. Course placement will be determined and approved by the department chair.  Students should work closely with their Department Chair or faculty and their Academic Advisor to determine which class should be replaced for the internship. The internship needs to replace a required class within the student’s major department.

    Students may earn 3 or 6 credits for an internship, depending on internship structure and contact hours.

    International Students and Internships/Curricular Practical Training (CPT) 

    Additional US Dept. of Homeland Security regulations apply to international students seeking internships/Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

    The Office of Partnerships does not advise students on OPT, CPT, or Visa rules and regulations. International students must meet with the Director of Global Engagement to receive approval to proceed before internship paperwork will be initiated. The Office of Global Engagement determines a student’s eligibility to participate in an internship/CPT and has precedence over Faculty recommendations.

    BFA Requirements:  

    • Student must be a Junior or Senior in studio courses.   
    • Student must meet the College’s Junior Status Policy requirements.  
    • Student interns must have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher. 
    • Portfolio Approval Form signed by Department Chair or full-time faculty member.
    • All students pursuing an internship must have their portfolio approved by their department chair or full-time faculty member. 
    • Internship credit can not replace a Liberal Arts required course.

    MFA Requirements:  

    • Complete one year of course work.
    • Grade Point Average of 3.0 or better.
    • Portfolio Approval Form signed by Department Chair or full-time faculty member.
    • All students pursuing an internship must have their portfolio approved by their department chair or full-time faculty member.
    • Internship credit can not replace a Liberal Arts required course.

    Students may search for internships in the following ways:

    • Visit CCS Handshake to view internships and jobs that have been vetted by the Office of Partnerships 
    • Job Search sites such as the ones listed in the Additional Resources section on the  Office of Partnerships departmental page
    • Visit websites of companies of interest to research internship opportunities and the application process.  
    • Schedule an appointment with the Office of Partnerships if additional assistance is needed.   

    Once you have secured your internship location:

    Considerations:

    • For credit internships are only $450 for 3 credits.
    • A student may take ONE 6-credit internship or TWO 3-credit internships. 
    • The contact hour requirement for a three-credit internship is 135 hours over the course of the semester; six-credit internships require 270 contact hours over the course of the semester.
    • You must register for your internship when you register for classes. The last day to add a class is the same for internships. Contact the Office of Partnerships to get the paperwork necessary to register for a for credit internship.

    Requirements:

    BFA
    • Must get approval from your Department Chair
    • Portfolio approval form required on file
    • Must be a Junior or Senior in studio courses
    • Must  meet the College’s Junior Status Policy 
    • Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher
    MFA
    • Must have  have approval from your Department Chair
    • Portfolio approval form required on file
    • Must complete one year of course work
    • Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

    Onboarding Process:

    • Share an update with your Chair to identify a Faculty Supervisor
    • Share an update with your Academic Advisor for credit approval 
    • Collaborate with Office of Partnerships to complete necessary paperwork:
      • Portfolio Approval Form (if needed)
      • Internship Site Information Form and Learning Contract (In collaboration with your Internship Site Supervisor)  Link to form: Fillalble Internship Site Information Sheet AND Learning Contract
      • Provide GPA, Student ID, name of faculty supervisor and which course will be replaced with Office of Partnerships
    • Review Internship Handbook and Canvas Requirements:
    • Internship Handbook 2022
    • Provide Weekly Journal Entries
    • Two check-ins with Faculty Supervisor
    • Final Presentation with Faculty Supervisor
    • Submit all information to Office of Partnerships before drop/add date each semester

    For more information contact Shannon McPartlon – smcpartlon@collegeforcreativestudies.edu

    Internship Cost and Billing

    Internships for credit are billed at a lower per-credit hour rate ($150 per credit hour) than other CCS coursework. 

    All enrolled courses, including internship courses for credit, will be billed the same tuition rate .  The Financial Aid Office will be notified that a student is taking an internship for credit and will apply the Internship Grant to the students account, reducing the internship course cost to $150.00 per credit hour or $450.00 for a 3-credit internship course or $900.00 for a 6-credit internship course. 

    A student can review their semester billing statement through Self Service and contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss any further financial aid eligibility. 

    Steps to Pursue a Non-Credit Internship

    Non-credit internships are another option for students to pursue a professional experience. Non-credit internships do not require a specific GPA, class standing or a mandated number of contact hours.  There is no tuition cost for a non-credit internship and there is no limit on the number of non-credit internship opportunities that a student can take.

    Students who will be on hiatus or enrolled less than 6 credits during their internship should contact the Financial Aid Office in order to fully understand any financial implications.

  • Freedom of Expression

    The mission of the College for Creative Studies asserts that we embrace excellence, ethical action, and social responsibility in all aspects in the practice of art, design, and scholarship. To adequately support this mission, CCS must preserve freedom of expression in all its forms. Freedom of expression is essential to basic human dignity. It ensures that members of the CCS community (students, faculty, staff and guests invited by the College) are at liberty to develop their creative abilities to the fullest extent.

    CCS supports the rights of its community members to research and create using all forms of expression. It supports the right to express one’s views publicly as well as privately at venues and in activities both on and off campus.

    The CCS community recognizes that creative expression by its very nature may be provocative. To encourage healthy debate, members of the CCS community and guests must demonstrate respect for the right of others to express views which they find disagreeable or offensive. Likewise members of the CCS community must be sensitive to the various audiences who may encounter their work.

    That being said, CCS also notes that this freedom is not absolute. In certain circumstances, the institution may restrict expression, for example, that violates the law, is harassing or defamatory, invades substantial privacy or confidentiality interests, or does not meet curatorial standards. Moreover, the institution may reasonably regulate the time, place, and manner of expression to ensure that it does not disrupt the ordinary activities of the College.

  • Exhibitions

    Reason for Policy

    As an educational institution dedicated to nurturing the highest level of creativity both inside the classroom and out, College for Creative Studies (CCS) wholeheartedly supports the ability of students, faculty, staff, and invited guests to display their work on campus and other venues as may be appropriate. This policy provides guidelines for review, display, oversight, and other considerations of work exhibited under the College’s auspices to ensure, among other things, safety, security, suitability, and the right to freedom of expression.

    Scope

    The CCS Exhibition Policy is administered by the Faculty Advisory Committee of the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs in consultation with the College administration. It is guided by the College’s Statement on Freedom of Expression, which holds that the free exploration, display, and exchange of ideas is fundamental to a democratic society, even, and perhaps especially, those that are considered controversial. At the same time, it recognizes that the right to free expression requires an ethical responsibility on the part of those who create these works, and their educators (as applicable), to consider where they may be displayed and with respect for the audiences who may encounter them. This exhibition policy specifically addresses those venues dedicated for the display of creative work, both on campus and off, sanctioned by the College. It does not bind CCS to sanction expressions carried out in situations beyond its control.

    Guiding Principles

    The presentation of creative work is fundamental to the educational mission of the College in fostering and promoting research, development, creation, and promulgation of knowledge in the arts and culture among its various and diverse audiences. The specific method and process by which work comes to be displayed under the auspices of College may differ, depending on the venue and the function. However, all work presented to the public under the College’s auspices is curated, which is to say that it undergoes a process overseen by the appropriate staff (i.e., full-time faculty, gallery directors, and/or other staff with the requisite authority) to ensure its suitability for display. The specific procedures and responsibilities for the various exhibition spaces and presentation activities are detailed in the “Venues” section that follows. The College retains the authority to make the final determination on which works are displayed, how they are displayed, and where they are displayed at College-sanctioned venues and special exhibitions.

    Venues and Programs

    The College has many spaces where creative work may be displayed. These include formally curated spaces as well as those that are improvised, temporary, or less deliberate. In each case, the purpose of the work being displayed and the audience that may encounter it must be taken into account.

    Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs

    CCS has a number of venues and programs organized under the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs. Below are the specific spaces and programs administered by the Office, as well as the procedures and responsibilities for each:

    • CCS Center Galleries: A curated space that presents a range of changing, high-quality exhibitions of local, regional, and international contemporary art and design, as well as public programs. The gallery accepts proposals from the CCS community and other constituents. Exhibitions are selected and scheduled by the Director of the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs in consultation with the Faculty Advisory Committee. Located in the Manoogian Visual Resources Center.
    • Alumni and Faculty Hall: Devoted to exhibitions featuring CCS alumni, faculty, and staff, who may propose them or be invited by the Director of the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs. Exhibitions are selected and scheduled by the Director of the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs in consultation with the Faculty Advisory Committee. Located in the MVRC in the hallway next to CCS Center Galleries.
    • Permanent Collection Gallery (also known as the Student Showcase): Dedicated to exhibitions of the College’s permanent collection. Located in the hallway off the rear entrance to MVRC.
    • Permanent Student Exhibition: Rotating exhibition of work by current CCS students from all undergraduate departments. Work is selected by the Department Chairs. Located in the MVRC near the front entrance.
    • U245 Student Gallery: A student-run exhibition space dedicated to the display of current CCS student work from all departments. Work is selected from a call for proposals by the student gallery manager in consultation with the U245 Faculty Advisor. Located on the first floor of the Art Centre Building.
    • The Valade Family Gallery: A venue for art in all of its multitudinous forms intended to foster dialogue among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community at large on a variety of issues of contemporary art and design. This space is particularly dedicated to supporting the educational mission of the College’s academic departments and offers a combination of curated and proposed exhibitions as determined by the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs in consultation with the Faculty Advisory Committee. Located on the first floor of the A. Alfred Taubman Center for Design Education (TC)
    • Garfield Windows: Highlights a range of work by CCS students and alumni in reproduction form for the benefit of the public to help raise awareness of the College and promote its activities. Installation of work is overseen by the Director of the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs and the Marketing Department. The windows are located on the first floor of the Garfield Building on Woodward Avenue.
    • Woodward Lecture Series: This visiting speaker series has attracted over 100 renowned artists, critics, and scholars to Detroit since 1998. In addition to public lectures, Woodward Lecturers directly engage with CCS students through critiques and round-table discussions, fostering a greater understanding of and appreciation for contemporary art and culture. Lecturers are curated by the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs in collaboration with the Faculty Advisory Committee.

    Office of Academic Affairs

    The Office of Academic Affairs oversees a number of activities to support its pedagogical mission for the benefit of students, faculty, staff, and, where appropriate, the public.

    • Classrooms/Studios: The College recognizes classrooms and studios as laboratories for investigation of a broad range of issues to further students’ creative development. Ideas presented in these spaces may be in the process of formation and subject to critique by peers, faculty, and other advisors. As such, work in process may find expression in these spaces that might need to be refined or discussed prior to being presented to the broader public. The College recognizes the right and the need for students to conduct investigations that may make some uncomfortable. At the same time, the College calls upon all concerned to exhibit respect for one another in their presentation and discussion of this work.
    • Hubs/Hallways: CCS has a number of spaces outside of classrooms that are thresholds between areas devoted to instruction and experimentation and those where the public has access and therefore may encounter the work of students in progress. The chair and faculty of each department select the work that is displayed in these areas. Judgment should be used on what to display in these areas for any period of time.
    • Toyota Lecture Series: Established through an endowment gift from Toyota Motor Company, the series brings prominent designers, critics, entrepreneurs, and scholars in all fields of design to speak at CCS. In addition to public lectures, the Toyota Lecture Series directly engages with CCS students through critiques, roundtable discussions, and workshops. Speakers are selected through a call for nominations, which are reviewed and approved by the Office of Academic Affairs.
    • Special lectures, workshops, and residencies: From time to time, special lectures and workshops presented by visiting artists and designers and other onsite activities may take place where work is presented and discussed. These activities may be in a single department or include multiple departments and may or may not be open to the public depending on the specific circumstance. These activities are approved by the Department Chair(s).

    Special Exhibitions

    The College regularly presents a variety of special exhibitions of student work in support of its educational mission, as well to showcase that work for the benefit of the public. Faculty and staff also exhibit their work at various venues on campus and off as part of their professional practice.

    • Annual CCS Student Exhibition: Opening the day after Spring Commencement, the Annual Student Exhibition showcases work by undergraduate and graduate students in all majors, including Foundation and Liberal Arts. The chair and faculty of each department are responsible for determining all work that is to be included in the Student Exhibition in that department’s section and overseeing its installation. See the Appendix: CCS Annual Student Exhibition Jury Procedures by Department for specific department guidelines. The exhibition is located at the Taubman Center, floors 8-11.
    • Winter Commencement Student Exhibition: All students graduating in December are given the opportunity to exhibit in the Annual CCS Student Exhibition. However, they are also given an opportunity to exhibit a more limited sampling of their work on the evening of December Commencement. Seniors wishing to exhibit in the Winter Commencement Exhibition must apply to the Department Chair by the due date and follow the procedures as set forth in the Appendix. The exhibition is located at the Taubman Center, Knight Gallery.
    • North American International Auto Show: Each January, CCS sponsors a booth at the North American International Auto Show to showcase the work of students in the Transportation Design Department and raise awareness among industry peers, the general public, and prospective students of the College as a global leader in design education. Work for the display is chosen by the Department Chair, the Provost, and the President. Location: Cobo Hall.
    • Other (student, faculty, staff): From time to time, students, faculty, and staff participate in exhibitions, presentations, and other activities at a wide range of venues, including museums, galleries, symposia, and more. Some, such as the Art Practice Department “One Night Stand,” are done under the College’s auspices whereas others, such as participation in a juried exhibition at a commercial gallery, are not. Presentations undertaken to represent the College are covered by this Exhibition Policy and the College’s Statement on the Freedom of Expression. Those undertaken independently are not. The College respects the right of students, faculty, and staff to put their creative expressions in the public domain, with the understanding that they may not reflect the views of the College, and CCS will not be held liable for their reception.

    Environmental Concerns at CCS Venues

    • Traffic Flow: No artwork is allowed to block access to exits or entrances in any way.
    • Physical Hazard: Any installation must be secured in such a way that no one can be injured. Nothing must be allowed to fall down, tip over, or spill. No work is allowed to hang from water or electrical pipes.
    • Air Quality: To protect members of the public have allergies, asthma, or are otherwise chemically sensitive. Displays should not give off dust, fumes, vapors, scents, etc., that maybe toxic or an irritant.
    • Electrical: Electrical wiring needs to be of an appropriate gauge. Equipment must be protected from overheating. Use only heavy duty extension cords, and do not string extension cords together.
    • Technology: Exhibitions incorporating technology must be approved by the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs in consultation with the CCS Department of Information Technology Services. In the case of the CCS Annual Student Exhibition, all requests for technological support must be submitted through the respective department and approved by the Office of Information Technology Services. Student are not allowed to provide their own technology without prior written approval.
    • Perishable Items, live plants, live animals, body fluids: Some items (perishable or not) may only be used within limited constraints and must be approved by the proper College authorities. Situations that breed disease, foul odors, or insects will not be allowed.
    • Fire Hazards: Flammable or combustible material must be protect from ignition.
    • Graffiti/Vandalism: CCS supports a broad range of opportunities for expression for students, faculty, and staff to express their creative vision through exhibitions, performances, and other programs that may engage the broader community on and off campus. While some forms of graffiti have gained recognition as a viable form of creative expression, the College considers defacement of public or private property to be vandalism, not artwork. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to seek the appropriate permission to create works of art in the public realm. Those who commit vandalism on or off campus are subject to disciplinary action, which can range from remediation of the site and/or paying for damages up to dismissal. In addition to discipline by the College, individuals committing acts of vandalism may be subject to civil legal action by property owners and criminal prosecution for their actions.

    Liability

    The College assumes no responsibility for student work displayed in College venues or special exhibitions. Special exhibitions at CCS Center Galleries and the Valade Family Gallery and the CCS Permanent Collection may be covered by the College’s liability insurance policy. See the Director of the Office of Exhibitions and Public Programs for conditions that may apply.

    Departmental Policies

    Each department at CCS has established procedures for the display of work under their individual auspices. These procedures must be consistent with the principles and procedures detailed in this document. See the Appendix: CCS Annual Student Exhibition Jury Procedures by Department for specific department guidelines. The College retains the right to supersede departmental policies if it is deemed to be in its best interest to do so.

  • Computer and Technology Requirements – Graduate Students

    Graduate students enrolling at the College for Creative are required to own or purchase a laptop computer for their studies. The website information provides the hardware configuration and software requirements. Students will also have access to computers in the Graduate Lab and other sites on campus that will provide access to software.

    Be sure to use your educational discount available at Apple Stores or the Apple online educational store and at Dell online with a letter of acceptance or school ID. For software, please visit the CCS bookstore or contact the bookstore at 313.664.5020 for the most competitive educational pricing on software bundles for your initial purchase and for any additional software needs.

  • Academic Evaluation

    Students should review their academic evaluation at the end of each semester. A copy of the academic evaluation may be obtained through Self-Service or the Academic Advising and Registration Office. The academic evaluation identifies academic progress made toward a degree. Courses are identified by alpha letters indicating progress:

    • “C” next to a course indicates course completion
    • “I” indicates a course in progress
    • “N” is a course not started
    • “P” is a course pending completion of unfinished activity

    Other Courses

    In the academic evaluation there is an “other courses” section at the end of the evaluation. Courses that are not applying to the student’s major will default into this area. These courses normally default into this area if a student has changed their major and the old course is not applicable to the new major. Students can speak with their department chair about having these courses applied to their current program. Students will also see courses that they’ve withdrawn from or failed into this section. These courses are not applying to the students current degree program.

    Academic advisors routinely review academic evaluations to ensure progress is being made. Students with questions should contact the Academic Advising and Registration Office.