Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) | Savannah

Certainly. Here is a detailed overview of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD):

Overview and History

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a private, nonprofit university specializing in art, design, and creative disciplines. Founded in 1978 by Paula S. Wallace and a small group of dedicated educators, SCAD was established to provide top-tier art education in Savannah, Georgia. The college began with only 71 students but quickly expanded due to its innovative curriculum, strong industry ties, and focus on experiential learning. Over the decades, SCAD has evolved into a global institution with tens of thousands of students from more than 100 countries, making it one of the largest and most diverse art schools in the world.

Academic Programs

SCAD offers an extensive range of academic programs designed to foster creativity, technical skills, and professional readiness. The university provides more than 100 degree programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These cover a wide array of disciplines such as:

Animation

Architecture

Fashion Design

Film and Television

Graphic Design

Illustration

Interior Design

Industrial Design

Game Design

User Experience (UX) Design

Photography

Writing

Performing Arts

SCAD operates on a quarter system, dividing the academic year into four 10-week terms, which allows students to take more courses annually and gain practical skills faster. The curriculum blends traditional studio arts with emerging digital technologies and entrepreneurial studies, equipping students with versatile capabilities to thrive in the competitive creative industries.

Campuses and Facilities

SCAD’s main campus is located in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia. The campus is unique in that it incorporates nearly 70 historic buildings that have been repurposed as classrooms, studios, galleries, and residence halls. This commitment to adaptive reuse preserves the architectural heritage of Savannah while providing a rich, inspiring environment for students.

Additional campuses include:

Atlanta, Georgia: A campus in the urban center that expands SCAD’s reach within the Southeastern U.S.

Lacoste, France: A picturesque campus set in a 12th-century village, offering immersive cultural experiences and study abroad opportunities focused on fine arts and design.

Hong Kong: A campus serving the Asia-Pacific region, featuring programs tailored to global creative markets.

Beyond physical campuses, SCAD provides an online learning platform called SCADnow, which offers flexible distance education options for students worldwide.

Facilities include state-of-the-art computer labs, fabrication studios with 3D printers and laser cutters, digital media labs, sound stages, film production studios, theaters, galleries, and the SCAD Museum of Art, which hosts contemporary exhibitions and serves as a cultural hub.

Career Preparation and Industry Connections

One of SCAD’s strongest features is its emphasis on career readiness. The university maintains close relationships with leading companies and creative professionals across industries such as entertainment, fashion, gaming, film, and technology. This network allows SCAD to offer:

Internships: Facilitated connections with top companies like Pixar, Apple, and Adidas provide students with real-world experience.

SCADpro: An innovative research and prototype lab where students collaborate with industry clients to solve design challenges, often resulting in portfolio-worthy projects.

Career Services: Dedicated staff assist students with job placement, resume building, interview preparation, and networking.

These efforts have led to an impressive 99% employment or graduate school placement rate within 10 months of graduation, underscoring SCAD’s commitment to producing career-ready graduates.

Cultural Impact and Community Engagement

SCAD plays a vital role in the cultural life of Savannah and the broader art world. The university organizes high-profile events such as:

SCAD Savannah Film Festival: The largest university-run film festival in the United States, attracting industry professionals and showcasing new works from students and independent filmmakers.

SCAD Fashion Show: A prestigious runway event highlighting innovative student designs and attracting fashion industry insiders.

SCAD Museum of Art: A contemporary art museum located on the Savannah campus, offering rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and public lectures.

Theaters: The Trustees Theater and Lucas Theatre host performances, screenings, and lectures, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the community.

These initiatives foster collaboration between students, faculty, and the public, enriching both the academic environment and the cultural fabric of Savannah.

Student Life and Support Services

SCAD offers a vibrant student life experience with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities centered around arts, culture, media, and social interests. Students benefit from:

On-Campus Housing: Multiple residence halls and apartments featuring suite-style living, study areas, and social spaces, designed to create a supportive community atmosphere.

Support Services: Comprehensive resources include academic advising, tutoring, counseling, health services, and career guidance.

International Student Services: Specialized support to assist with visa processes, cultural adjustment, and integration into campus life.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Programs and clubs promoting cultural awareness and inclusion across all campuses.

The university also encourages student entrepreneurship and leadership through various incubators and project-based learning opportunities.

Reputation and Rankings

SCAD consistently ranks among the top art and design schools in the United States and globally. It is recognized for excellence in categories such as:

Fashion Design

Animation

Interior Design

Graphic Design

Illustration

These accolades reflect the institution’s quality of faculty, curriculum, facilities, and graduate outcomes. The alumni network includes successful professionals working at major studios, design firms, and creative agencies worldwide.

Summary

The Savannah College of Art and Design stands out as a premier institution dedicated to creative education. Its unique combination of historic campuses, comprehensive programs, industry integration, cultural events, and student-centered support prepares graduates for meaningful careers in the arts and design fields. SCAD’s global reach and commitment to innovation continue to influence and shape the future of creative industries worldwide.