The mission of The Art Institute of California — Orange County is to provide postsecondary education programs that will prepare students for entry-level positions in their chosen fields through market-driven curricula.

This mission is accomplished by involving employers in the development of curricula that respond to industry needs; creating an environment that encourages academic freedom, responsible decision making, and critical thinking among students, faculty and staff; fostering a collaborative environment that encourages personal and professional growth; and continually improving operations by promoting teamwork and communications through the institutional effectiveness process.