California College of the Arts
Noted for its range and interdiscplinary nature of its programs the California College of the Arts is considered one of the leading arts institutions in the Untied States. The California College of the Arts offers undergraduate and graduate courses in curatorial practice, fine arts, architecture, community arts, illustration, fashion design, illustration and animation.

California Institute of the Arts
The California Institute of the Arts was created by Walt Disney in the 1960s and was the nation's first art institute to offer BFAs and MFAs in both the visual and performing arts. The school's philosophy embraces an interdiscplinary and experimental approach to art making. In 2006 the California Institute of the Arts became the first American film school to be honored with a full retrospective at The Museum of Modern Art.

California Polytechnic State University
The California Polytechnic State University, commonly called Cal Poly, is located in San Luis Obispo, California, and has seven colleges offering degrees from bachelor's to upper-level. Art Programs at California Polytechnic State University-san Luis Obispo include: Art Studies, Music, Dramatics and Theatre Arts.

Cuesta College
Established in 1963, Cuesta College is a public community college located at the heart of San Luis Obispo County. The College offers a variety of arts programs including fine arts, theatre and music and is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and College.