The Savannah College of Art and Design is committed to the pursuit of excellence and welcomes applicants who have the same high standards. The college maintains a selective admission policy, accounting for a student body that is enthusiastic about the programs of study and capable of advancing rapidly.

New students may enter fall, winter, spring or summer quarter, although most students begin in the fall. Summer course offerings may be limited. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications online via www.scad.edu/apply and to apply as early as possible. The recommended priority deadline for fall quarter admission and scholarship consideration is Feb. 15.

Admission and scholarship priority is given to those who complete requirements at least eight months prior to intended entry term. Applications completed less than six months prior to the intended entry date are considered on a space-available basis.

Students applying for federal or state financial aid should plan to complete their application file and submit all financial aid information at least six months prior to intended entry quarter. Otherwise, these students should be prepared to pay first-quarter tuition, room and board through personal funds, as processing of federal or state monies may not be completed until after these students have enrolled.

The administrative unit responsible for undergraduate, transfer, graduate and international admission decisions is the Admission Review Committee, which consists of recruitment and admission staff and administrators. Faculty in the intended area of study also may participate in review of applicants for graduate programs. The committee meets regularly to review applications and render admission decisions on completed application files.

The college reserves the right to verify all documents submitted in application for admission. Any falsification of admission documents or portfolio or audition materials constitutes grounds for termination of application procedures or dismissal from the college. Permanent residents must submit proof of legal residency such as a copy of a resident alien card.

Online applications are preferred and are available at www.scad.edu/apply. Applicants also may download, complete and send the application with $50 fee to the appropriate mailing address.

SCAD-Atlanta and SCAD-eLearning
Phone: 877.722.3285 or 404.253.2700
Fax: 404.253.3466
e-mail: scadatl@scad.edu or scadelearning@scad.edu

Admission Department
Savannah College of Art and Design
P.O. Box 77300
Atlanta, GA 30357-1300 USA

Packages may be sent to:
Admission Department
Savannah College of Art and Design
1600 Peachtree St., NE
Atlanta, GA 30309 USA

SCAD-Savannah
Phone: 800.869.7223 or 912.525.5100
Fax: 912.525.5986
e-mail: admission@scad.edu

Admission Department
Savannah College of Art and Design
P.O. Box 2072
Savannah, GA 31402-2072 USA

Packages may be sent to:
Admission Department
Savannah College of Art and Design
22 E. Lathrop Ave.
Savannah, GA 31415 USA


Application Requirements


Undergraduate Admission and Scholarships

First-year Freshmen

1.
Completed application for admission. Supporting documents may be sent separately.
2.
Nonrefundable application fee. $25 if submitted online; $50 if submitted in paper form. Both application and fee must be received by the admission office for processing to begin.
3. Official transcript from last high school attended showing all years of the student's
grades. General Equivalency Diploma is also acceptable, indicating successful completion of the program. International transcripts must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
4. Official report of SAT or ACT scores* including the writing section. (SAT or ACT scores are not required of international applicants or applicants who have been out of school at least two years.) To have these scores sent directly to the Savannah College of Art and Design, applicants should use SAT code 5631 or ACT code 0855 on the test forms.

All applicants are automatically reviewed for academic scholarship consideration based on completed application files. Scholarships also may be awarded to admitted students based on a combination of academic and artistic achievements.

Required for Artistic Scholarship Consideration

5. Portfolio, audition or writing submission. Although not required for undergraduate admission, these submissions may support the application for admission, as well as scholarship consideration. For more information, see audition dates and guidelines, undergraduate portfolio guidelines and scholarships for entering undergraduate students.

Optional Supporting Materials for Application or Scholarship Consideration

6. Recommendations. Up to three recommendations may be submitted by teachers, counselors or community leaders who have had immediate contact with the applicant. Recommendations should address the applicant's level of commitment, as well as attributes such as creativity, initiative, motivation, character and academic achievement, to aid in assessing the applicant's reasonable potential for success as a student at SCAD.
7. Statement of purpose. Statement of no more than 500 words should give an overview of the applicant's academic and personal experience, describing preparation for and commitment to further study at SCAD as well as educational and professional goals and aspirations.
8. Interview. Telephone or e-mail interviews are acceptable. Personal interviews may be scheduled at information sessions and during college visits.

*Architecture applicants: Students applying to the professional architecture program must attain a minimum SAT math score of 540 or ACT math score of 23 in order to be granted regular acceptance. Otherwise qualified applicants to the professional architecture program who have not attained these scores or who are unable to demonstrate an aptitude for the study of mathematics and science may be admitted to the professional architecture program on a provisional basis. One condition stipulates that the student must complete MATH 101 with a grade of 2.0 or higher and complete MATH 201 and PHYS 201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher in order to pursue the professional architecture degree. The credit hours earned in MATH 101 may be applied as an elective toward credit hours required for the professional architecture degree.

Exceptions to the general rules of admission may be made for applicants of unusual motivation and ability. Application materials cannot be returned.

Home-schooled Applicants

1.
Completed application for admission. Supporting documents may be sent separately.
2. Nonrefundable application fee. $25 if submitted online; $50 if submitted in paper form. Both application and fee must be received by the admission office for processing to begin.
3. Official transcript from correspondence school or other accredited private home school. International transcripts must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.

General Equivalency Diploma is also acceptable, indicating successful completion of the program.

Academic portfolio is also acceptable, that may include, but is not limited to, the following:
  • Verification that the home school has been recognized by the state of residence of the applicant.
  • Detailed outline of the home-school curriculum, including subject areas studied, time spent on each discipline, and, if applicable, grades awarded. A home-school transcript may fulfill this requirement.
  • Writing sample that is academic in nature, but not necessarily a graded assignment or one used for coursework.
  • Résumé of classes taken outside the home. If classes have been taken at a college or university, official transcripts are required.
4. Official report of SAT or ACT scores* including the writing section. (SAT or ACT scores are not required of international applicants or applicants who have been out of school at least two years.) To have these scores sent directly to the Savannah College of Art and Design, applicants should use SAT code 5631 or ACT code 0855 on the test forms.

All applicants are automatically reviewed for academic scholarship consideration based on completed application files. Scholarships also may be awarded to admitted students based on a combination of academic and artistic achievements.

Required for Artistic Scholarship Consideration

5. Portfolio, audition or writing submission. Although not required for undergraduate admission, these submissions may support the application for admission, as well as scholarship consideration. For more information, see audition dates and guidelines, undergraduate portfolio guidelines and scholarships for entering undergraduate students.

Optional Supporting Materials for Application or Scholarship Consideration
6. Recommendations. Up to three recommendations may be submitted by teachers, counselors or community leaders who have had immediate contact with the applicant. Recommendations should address the applicant's level of commitment as well as attributes such as creativity, initiative, motivation, character and academic achievement, to aid in assessing the applicant's reasonable potential for success as a student at SCAD.
7. Statement of purpose. Statement of no more than 500 words should give an overview of the applicant's academic and personal experience, describing preparation for and commitment to further study at SCAD as well as educational and professional goals and aspirations.
8. Interview. Telephone or e-mail interviews are acceptable. Personal interviews may be scheduled at information sessions and during college visits.

*Architecture applicants: Students applying to the professional architecture program must attain a minimum SAT math score of 540 or ACT math score of 23 in order to be granted regular acceptance. Otherwise qualified applicants to the professional architecture program who have not attained these scores or who are unable to demonstrate an aptitude for the study of mathematics and science may be admitted to the professional architecture program on a provisional basis. One condition stipulates that the student must complete MATH 101 with a grade of 2.0 or higher and complete MATH 201 and PHYS 201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher in order to pursue the professional architecture degree. The credit hours earned in MATH 101 may be applied as an elective toward credit hours required for the professional architecture degree.

Exceptions to the general rules of admission may be made for applicants of unusual motivation and ability. Application materials cannot be returned.

Omitting Senior Year

Applicants are encouraged to complete high school or earn a General Equivalency Diploma before entering college. Exceptions to the general rules of admission may be made for applicants of unusual may be admitted at the end of the junior year in high school, omitting the senior year, if he or she has a grade point average of 3.5 or above through grade 11, if SAT or ACT scores are above the national average, and if the applicant's counselor and teacher recommend admission. Juniors who wish to be considered for full-time admission must follow the application requirements for first-time freshmen and request junior admission on the application form. In order to be accepted for admission, the applicant must demonstrate an advanced level of maturity, leadership and responsibility. Junior applicants who wish to apply for federal financial aid or be considered for institutional scholarships should contact the admission department.

Joint Enrollment

A high school student 16 years of age or older who wishes to be admitted for joint enrollment on a part-time basis during the junior or senior year must follow the application requirements for first-time freshmen and must be recommended for joint enrollment by a counselor and a teacher. In addition, joint enrollment applicants should meet or exceed normal undergraduate admission requirements.

Joint enrollment is on a space-available basis. Courses are not intended to fulfill high school graduation requirements; they do carry college level credit and can be used in fulfillment of a college certificate or degree program if the student applies and is accepted as a degree-seeking student.

Joint enrollment students who wish to be considered for scholarships should request this on the application. They are not eligible for federal or state financial aid and may not reside in college housing while joint enrolled. Joint enrollment students who have taken courses on a non-degree seeking basis and who wish to become degree seeking must contact the admission office before progressing in further coursework.

Undergraduate Transfer

1.
Completed application for admission. Supporting documents may be sent separately. Students who previously applied and were reviewed for first-time freshman admission at SCAD and then attended another college or university must reapply as a transfer student and submit all materials required to be reviewed for transfer admission and scholarship opportunities.
2. Nonrefundable application fee. $25 if submitted online; $50 if submitted in paper form. Both application and fee must be received by the admission office for processing to begin.
3. Official transcript from each college attended. If number of college credits earned is insufficient for evaluating performance, high school transcripts or General Equivalency Diploma and official SAT or ACT scores* may be required. SAT or ACT scores are not required of international applicants or applicants who have been out of school for at least two years. International transcripts must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.

All applicants are automatically reviewed for academic scholarship consideration based on completed application files. Scholarships also may be awarded to admitted students based on a combination of academic and artistic achievements.

Required for Artistic Scholarship Consideration

4.
Portfolio, audition or writing submission. Although not required for undergraduate admission, these submissions are reviewed for scholarship consideration. For more information, see audition dates and guidelines, undergraduate portfolio guidelines and scholarships for entering undergraduate students.

Optional Supporting Materials for Application or Scholarship Consideration

5. Recommendations. Up to three recommendations may be submitted by teachers, professors, counselors or community leaders who have had immediate contact with the applicant. Recommendations should address the applicant's level of commitment as well as attributes such as creativity, initiative, motivation, character and academic achievement, to aid in assessing the applicant's reasonable potential for success as a student at SCAD.
6. Statement of purpose. Statement of no more than 500 words should give an overview of the applicant's academic and personal experience, describing preparation for and commitment to further study at SCAD as well as educational and professional goals and aspirations.
7. Interview. Telephone or e-mail interviews are acceptable. Personal interviews may be scheduled at information sessions and during college visits.

*Architecture applicants: Students applying to the professional architecture program must attain a minimum SAT math score of 540 or ACT math score of 23 in order to be granted regular acceptance. Otherwise qualified applicants to the professional architecture program who have not attained these scores or who are unable to demonstrate an aptitude for the study of mathematics and science may be admitted to the professional architecture program on a provisional basis. One condition stipulates that the student must complete MATH 101 with a grade of 2.0 or higher and complete MATH 201 and PHYS 201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher in order to pursue the professional architecture degree. The credit hours earned in MATH 101 may be applied as an elective toward credit hours required for the professional architecture degree.

Exceptions to the general rules of admission may be made for applicants of unusual motivation and ability. Application materials cannot be returned.

Undergraduate Transfer Credits

After an undergraduate transfer applicant is accepted for admission, official transcripts showing completed collegiate coursework are evaluated by the admission office to determine whether or not the student may be granted advanced standing. The coursework must be found to be relevant to the degree the student is seeking at the Savannah College of Art and Design, with course content and level of instruction resulting in student competencies comparable to or higher than those of students enrolled at the Savannah College of Art and Design. In assessing and documenting comparable learning through course content and level of instruction, the college uses recognized guidelines which aid in the evaluation of credit, such as those published by the American Council on Education, the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, and NAFSA: Association of International Educators. This policy is consistent with the mission of the Savannah College of Art and Design and ensures that coursework and learning outcomes are at the collegiate level and comparable to the college's degree programs.

Generally, transfer credit may be accepted from institutions that are approved by the U.S. Department of Education and hold regional accreditation, or have appropriate specialized or programmatic accreditation, or have been evaluated and proven to be comparable in course content and level of instruction to SCAD, or are recognized by the ministry of education or equivalent agency in the applicant's home country. Course content is evaluated by comparing the curricula of other institutions with that of the Savannah College of Art and Design and assessing whether or not foundation studies, general education and major discipline courses are comparable to those offered at SCAD. Level of instruction is evaluated by comparing the percentage of faculty at other institutions who hold graduate and terminal degrees with the percentage of faculty at SCAD who hold graduate and terminal degrees.

Students who wish to appeal the decision of the college regarding transfer of credit from international institutions may provide an outside credential evaluation, although the college reserves the right to make a final determination of transfer credit. A list of acceptable outside evaluators can be obtained from the admission office.

A maximum of 90 quarter hours of undergraduate credit for a bachelor's degree may be given for courses appropriate to the college curriculum. Only grades of at least 2.0 (C) may be transferred for undergraduate credit. Failure to submit an updated transcript may result in loss of transfer credit.

A portfolio review is required for transfer of specific studio courses during the student's first quarter of enrollment and for final determination of transfer credit. To receive specific studio course credit, students must follow the portfolio submission criteria and guidelines available through the admission office. Additionally, a review of all course syllabi may be required. Portfolios are reviewed by qualified admission staff and also may be reviewed by faculty members from the applicable department. Transfer credit is granted when the quality of work in the portfolio is found to be at least equivalent to that which would earn a grade of 2.0 (C) or better in an equivalent or comparable course at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Failure to submit a portfolio during the first quarter of enrollment results in loss of opportunity to transfer studio credit. Transfer of credits earned in a distance-learning program is evaluated on a case-by-case, course-by-course basis.

Students who wish to appeal the transfer credit process after the first quarter of enrollment must submit a written request to the admission department. Transfer credit appears on the transcript as such and is not calculated in the student's grade point average. The final 45 hours of any degree program must be earned at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Off-campus programs offered by the Savannah College of Art and Design are considered in residence and may be counted as such.

Students may transfer a maximum of 90 quarter hours of equivalent content undergraduate courses into the 180-quarter-hour Bachelor of Fine Arts in architecture program leading to the final 45 graduate credit hours of the 225-quarter-hour professional Master of Architecture program. Students are required to complete the final 45 graduate quarter hours of the professional Master of Architecture degree program as graduate students and are subject to all graduate academic and financial policies. After meeting the undergraduate requirements, students are then required to apply in the architecture department to progress into the final 45 graduate credit hours of the program as graduate students. There is no additional application fee.

A-level Credit

GCE Advanced level examinations from Cambridge International Examinations are well established and internationally recognized. The A-level examinations indicate a level of achievement that may qualify a student for advanced standing. Credit is awarded for A-level examinations if certain requirements are met. Credit awarded by another college or university for A-level examinations is not transferable without proper documentation. Official A-level scores must be submitted to the admission office. Credit is awarded on a selective basis. Transfer credit from all sources (including A-level) may not exceed 90 quarter hours.

College-level Examination Program

The College-level Examination Program is administered through the College Board to provide documentation of college-level achievement that qualifies a student for advanced standing. CLEP credit is awarded if certain requirements are met. Credit awarded by another college or university for CLEP is not transferable without proper documentation. Official CLEP scores from the College Board must be submitted to the office of admission. A maximum of 45 quarter hours of CLEP credit may be awarded. Transfer credit from all sources (including CLEP) may not exceed 90 quarter hours. (A chart of credit awarded is available at www.scad.edu/clep.)

Advanced Placement Credit

Advanced Placement examinations are administered through the College Board to provide documentation of a level of achievement that qualifies a student for advanced standing. Credit is awarded for Advanced Placement courses taken at the high school level if certain requirements are met. Credit awarded by another college or university for Advanced Placement is not transferable without proper documentation. Official Advanced Placement scores must be submitted to the admission office. Transfer credit from all sources (including AP) may not exceed 90 quarter hours. (A chart of credit awarded is available at www.scad.edu/ap.)

International Baccalaureate Credit

The International Baccalaureate program is a pre-university course of study for secondary school students. The IB program leads to examinations that provide documentation of achievement that qualifies a student for advanced standing. Credit is awarded for International Baccalaureate coursework taken at the higher level if certain requirements are met. Credit awarded by another college or university for International Baccalaureate coursework is not transferable without proper documentation. Official IB scores must be submitted to the admission office. Transfer credit from all sources (including IB) may not exceed 90 quarter hours. (A chart of credit awarded is available at www.scad.edu/ib.)

Undergraduate Portfolio and Audition Guidelines

Although portfolios and auditions are not required for undergraduate admission, applicants are encouraged to present writing or visual arts portfolios or to audition when possible to enhance the application file and to be considered for scholarships. Both the portfolio and audition should showcase an applicant's best work, presented as professionally as possible. Both the portfolio and audition should demonstrate the applicant's interests in and aptitudes for advanced study and, specifically, potential for success at the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Applicants are encouraged to submit only their best work. It is not necessary to add extra work if it is not consistently strong. Applicants should not submit work copied from film, television, photographs, magazine/book illustrations or other sources. All materials should be submitted electronically and cannot be returned.

Undergraduate portfolios are not intended to be major-specific. The following recommendations may be helpful in presenting a portfolio, audition or writing submission.

Audition

Applicants should present a four-minute audition and interview at the college. Applicants who are unable to attend a SCAD audition may submit a four-minute performance on DVD. Applicants should prepare two contrasting monologues or one monologue presented with song or dance. If the applicant plans to sing or dance in a SCAD audition, he or she must supply the music for accompaniment in the rehearsed key. College auditions include a cold reading. A list of pieces that have been prepared, résumé and headshot (optional) must be submitted at the audition. Résumé of experience may include acting or other performance, directing, stage management, costume or set design, sound design or lighting design. Performance is reviewed on the following qualitative measures: voice production, movement, musicality, physical commitment, energy, relaxation, characterization, memorization and character portrayal.

Building Arts

Applicants should submit 10-20 images. Portfolios should demonstrate the applicant's personal creativity, ability to draw, and attention to detail. Portfolios should include drawings from observation and life, interiors and exteriors of buildings, and other work that expresses the applicant's individual style. Examples of work should include freehand sketches, renderings and CAD drawings.

Digital or Time-based Media

Applicants should submit a five-minute samples of their work. A strong portfolio includes foundation and graphics skills, where applicable, effective use of 2-D form and composition, and an understanding of additive and subtractive color theory. In addition, portfolios should demonstrate an aesthetic awareness and effective use of software and tools. A strong video portfolio includes an awareness of composition, storytelling and technical skills, with attention given to costumes, set and acting. Professional presentation of the cover, label and inventory sheet is recommended.

Fiction or Non-fiction Writing

Applicants may submit 5-10 pages of fiction or non-fiction writing samples such as research papers, short stories, dramatic writing, poetry or other forms of creative or professional writing. All samples much include applicant's name, title of work and class or teacher/supervisor, if produced as a class assignment or under the direction of a mentor. Research papers should provide a clearly stated premise, findings and conclusion; must be well organized; and must demonstrate consistent use of citation and documentation conventions according to a specific writing style. All writing samples must be submitted electronically in a typed, double-spaced format.

Visual Arts or Design

Applicants should submit 10-20 images. Traditional visual art or design pieces may be executed in any medium, in black and white or color, and may include, but are not limited to, drawing, painting, design, printmaking, collage, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, fashion, furniture or fiber art. Portfolio pieces should represent classroom assignments as well as independent projects and emphasize fundamental drawing skills in still life, nature, portraiture and figure studies. Whenever possible, the portfolio should demonstrate drawing from life rather than from photographs.

Portfolios are reviewed on the following qualitative measures: aesthetic awareness, composition, drawing, design, color perception, spatial perception, quality of presentation, technique and originality. Favorable consideration is given to strong 2-D and 3-D work that shows attention to technique, drawing, scale and original design.

Portfolio Formats

Digital: Computer-generated pieces may be submitted on CD, DVD or USB Flash drive. Images should be saved as high-quality JPEG files (with a file suffix of .jpg or .jpeg format), Adobe .pdf files, or digital portfolios created in PowerPoint, Director, Flash or HTML. Images should be saved at 72 dpi screen resolution with a minimum height/width of 1,000 pixels. Digital portfolios should be checked to assure that links work properly and all necessary files are included. Applicants should indicate whether special instructions are necessary for the viewing of digital portfolios. An inventory sheet must be attached, including the applicant's name, title of each piece, media or programs used, size, date of completion, and a brief description of the piece and applicant's role in development and execution. In the case of documented, professional or group projects, applicants should indicate personal responsibilities.

Multimedia: Should be submitted in a platform-independent player format or in QuickTime with the file suffix labeled as .qt or .mov (.mpeg format is also acceptable). Applicants interested in presenting a film and television portfolio should submit work in multimedia format or as a five-minute sample on DVD. Sound design portfolios should consist of a five-minute sample in digital or multimedia format. An inventory sheet must be attached, including the applicant's name, title, media or programs used, size and date of completion, as well as a brief description of the piece and explanation of the applicant's role in the development and execution of the project. In the case of documented, professional or group projects, applicants should indicate personal responsibilities.

Portfolio-based Course Exemption

Admitted new students may request and submit documentation for portfolio-based course exemption through the admission office. Currently enrolled students should request and submit documentation for portfolio-based course exemption to the appropriate department chair. Documentation should demonstrate mastery of skills and sufficient knowledge of content taught in a specific college-level course. A student who is exempted from a required course does not earn academic credit for that course, but may substitute a course from the same subject area as approved by the department chair to fulfill the number of hours required to complete degree requirements.

Undergraduate Provisional Acceptance

In some cases, the Admission Review Committee may recommend provisional acceptance for applicants whose overall completed application file does not meet or exceed regular admission standards. This could mean standardized test scores are below the national average and/or grade point average is below 2.5. Applicants may submit supporting materials such as portfolio, recommendations, statement of purpose and/or may interview to strengthen their application file. Decisions about provisional acceptance are made on a case-by-case basis.

Undergraduate students who are provisionally accepted to the college must take a full course load of three courses for the first term of enrollment, may not withdraw from any of the courses, and must earn a grade point average of at least 2.0 during that term. Failure to earn a grade point average of at least 2.0 results in dismissal from the college. Provisionally admitted students who earn a grade point average of at least 2.0 the first quarter automatically become fully admitted for the next quarter. A tutoring program is available to all students who seek assistance and is specifically recommended for provisionally accepted students. There is no charge for tutorials.

Otherwise qualified undergraduate applicants to the professional architecture program who have SAT math scores lower than 540, who have ACT math scores lower than 23, or who are unable to demonstrate an aptitude for the study of mathematics and science may be admitted to the professional architecture program on a provisional basis. One condition stipulates that the student must complete MATH 101 with a grade of 2.0 or higher, and complete MATH 201 and PHYS 201 with a grade of 2.0 or higher in order to pursue the professional architecture degree. The credit hours earned in MATH 101 may be applied as elective credit hours required for the professional architecture degree.


Graduate Admission and Scholarships


Graduate degree programs at the Savannah College of Art and Design are designed for dedicated, self-motivated students who are committed to the pursuit of excellence through advanced study. Graduate degrees may prepare individuals to hold leadership positions, to enter a variety of professional disciplines, to teach, or to accomplish other personal and professional goals. Graduate courses require students to analyze, explore, question, reconsider and synthesize old and new knowledge and skills. The graduate experience culminates in a thesis or final project demonstrating a mature and resolved body of work and/or research.

The college encourages application for admission to graduate degree programs from students who demonstrate successful completion of appropriate coursework on the undergraduate level and adequate preparedness to undertake graduate-level study. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or should anticipate completion of a bachelor's degree before enrollment in the graduate program.

Transcripts are evaluated to determine the conferment of bachelor's degrees from institutions that are approved by the U.S. Department of Education and hold regional accreditation, or have appropriate specialized or programmatic accreditation, or have been evaluated and proven to be comparable in course content and level of instruction to the Savannah College of Art and Design, or are recognized by the ministry of education or equivalent agency in the applicant's home country. Course content is evaluated by comparing the curricula of other institutions with that of SCAD and assessing whether or not foundation studies, general education and major discipline courses are comparable to those offered at SCAD. Level of instruction is evaluated by comparing the percentage of faculty at other institutions who hold graduate and terminal degrees with the percentage of faculty at SCAD who hold graduate and terminal degrees.

In addition to submitting official transcripts from all institutions previously attended and submitting major-specific portfolios, applicants may be asked to submit syllabi of specific coursework to aid in admission evaluation. The Admission Review Committee gives preference to applicants with a grade point average of 3.0 or above.

In some cases, applicants may be required to take the Graduate Record Examination as scores at or above the national mean may be one measure to indicate the ability to succeed in academic coursework at the graduate level. Submission of GRE scores is strongly encouraged for applicants to architectural history, art history, arts administration, cinema studies and post-professional Master of Architecture degree programs. GRE scores are recommended, but not required, for admission to other graduate programs.

Students may be conditionally accepted into a graduate degree program and required to take preliminary courses necessary to develop graduate-level competency in certain areas. Courses are assigned by the Admission Review Committee on the basis of the student's prior educational experience, level of achievement and the desired program of study. Students must complete each assigned preliminary course with a grade of 3.0 or better and pass a faculty review. Required preliminary courses may be taken concurrently with graduate courses upon approval of the student's faculty adviser.

Students who seek to be exempted from any assigned preliminary course must provide documentation to the admission office that demonstrates mastery of skills and sufficient knowledge of content taught in the specific preliminary course. A student who is granted exemption does not receive credit for the course, but it is eliminated from the student's preliminary course requirements.

Graduate students apply for and are accepted into specific major departments. Students who wish to change from one department to another must meet all admission requirements for the new department.

Art history applicants should show evidence of foreign language study at the undergraduate level. Architectural history applicants should show evidence of studio-based experience. Arts administration applicants should show completion of related coursework in an art field, media or entertainment, communications or business communication skills and evidence of leadership in the arts through arts advocacy, grant writing, cultural events promotion or planning.

Cinema studies applicants should show completion of coursework in the humanities. Dramatic writing and professional writing applicants should show academic preparation relative to graduate study in those disciplines, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the major area of undergraduate study. Dramatic writing and professional writing applicants whose undergraduate transcripts show grades of C or below in any writing courses may be required to repeat equivalent courses as preliminary coursework before progressing into the graduate level writing courses. M.A.T. applicants should show undergraduate transcripts with a grade point average of at least 3.0 in their major field of related study. Production design applicants should show experience in acting or other performance, directing, stage management, costume or set design, sound design or lighting design.

Applicants who have earned a five-year NAAB-accredited Bachelor of Architecture degree may be considered on a case-by-case basis for admission to the graduate year (final 45 hours) of the professional Master of Architecture degree program. Such applicants also have the option of applying to the postprofessional Master of Architecture degree program. Applicants who have earned a non-NAAB-accredited undergraduate degree in architecture or have earned an accredited undergraduate degree in another discipline may be admitted into the professional Master of Architecture program with required undergraduate prerequisite courses. Such applicants are required to take a minimum of 90 credit hours to complete the professional Master of Architecture program. All applicants are evaluated individually according to previous educational experience and level of achievement.

Exceptions to the general rules of admission may be made for applicants of unusual motivation and ability. In extremely rare cases, the completion of a bachelor's degree may not be required. These applications are evaluated on an individual basis.

Graduate students enrolled in the Master of Fine Arts program who wish to change to the Master of Arts program within the same department must submit a change of degree objective form to the office of graduate studies. All graduate degree applicants should review the graduate candidacy and completion requirements in the academic programs and policies section.


Graduate Program Application Requirements


1. Completed application for admission. The application form and application fee may be submitted prior to submission of supporting documents.
2. Nonrefundable application fee. $25 if submitted online; $50 if submitted in paper form. Both application and fee must be received by the admission office for processing to begin.
3.
Official transcript from each college attended. International transcripts must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
4. Recommendations. Applicants should submit three recommendations by e-mail according to online instructions at www.scad.edu/admission. Recommendations may be written by professors, advisers, supervisors or community leaders who have had immediate contact with the applicant and who have knowledge of the applicant's level of commitment and history of achievement. Recommendations should address attributes such as the applicant's creativity, initiative, motivation, character and achievements, thus assessing the applicant's reasonable potential for success as a student at SCAD. Recommendations may not come from friends or family members.
5. Statement of purpose. The statement should be a 500- to 750-word overview of the applicant's academic and professional accomplishments and should demonstrate a high level of interest in and a highly developed understanding of the discipline. The applicant should describe qualifications for graduate study and should state intended focus, as well as personal and professional goals.
6. Portfolio, audition or writing submission. The portfolio should be specific to the intended major, should represent the applicant's best work examples and should demonstrate a high level of craft presented as professionally as possible. These submissions are evaluated individually by the Admission Review Committee, which may include faculty from the department of intended study. An inventory sheet should accompany the submission. In the case of a group project, applicants should specify their role in the project and source material should be credited, where applicable. Audition dates are posted on the college Web site. Students also may submit audition recordings.
7. Résumé. The résumé should document educational credentials as well as professional and other employment such as internships or field experience in the intended area of graduate study, and should list commissioned works, exhibitions, honors, memberships, interests and activities, including volunteer work.

Interview (recommended, but not required). Telephone or e-mail interviews are acceptable. Personal interviews may be scheduled at information sessions and during college visits.
9. GRE scores (recommended and may be required in some cases). Performance on the Graduate Record Examination may assist in demonstrating adequate educational preparation and ability to succeed in academic coursework at the graduate level. Submission of GRE scores is strongly encouraged for applicants to architectural history, art history, arts administration, cinema studies and postprofessional Master of Architecture degree programs.
10. GACE scores (required for Master of Arts in Teaching applicants only). Applicants earning qualifying scores on the SAT, ACT or GRE may be exempt from submitting GACE scores. Test scores are required for this program in order to be in compliance with Georgia Professional Standards Commission directives.

Exceptions to the general rules of admission may be made for applicants of unusual motivation and ability. Application materials cannot be returned.


Graduate Portfolio, Audition and Writing Guidelines


Accessory Design

Applicants should submit work in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or similar format is preferred. Portfolios should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the design process through conceptual research, technical sketches, renderings and boards. Applicants should present computer-aided design portfolio work using Photoshop and Illustrator or other similar programs. Applicants should show competency in the ability to design for 3-D products with special attention given to both internal and external components creating innovative, whole products.

Advertising Design

Applicants should submit examples of their best visual and written work. Visual work should be submitted in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or PDF is preferred. DVD is preferred for submission of broadcast (radio or television) examples. Audio and visual examples should be in QuickTime. The portfolio should concentrate on advertising design as a problem-solving process, show sensible use of typography, demonstrate the ability to carry a design through multiple pieces (campaign) and represent the applicant's proficiency with InDesign software. The portfolio may be augmented by work that reflects the applicant's interest and ability in the design field. Written work should include no more than three samples of copywriting, scholarly or other appropriate work to demonstrate a broad range of writing ability.

Animation

Work should be submitted in digital form on DVD or CD. Work on CD must be in clearly identified folders. Static work may be submitted in slide format or print media. A strong portfolio shows accomplished art and design skill, including life drawing and evidential understanding of composition. In addition, portfolios should show conceptual awareness and effective use of software and tools to support aesthetic choices. Software used must be identified. Mature artistic or commercial direction should be shown in work that corresponds to the applicant's academic goals. When submitting examples of collaborative work, applicants should indicate their specific responsibilities on the project.

Architectural History

Applicants should submit a substantial college-level research paper (10-15 pages) demonstrating critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. The paper should employ appropriate documentation (preferably Chicago-Turabian format) and may include illustrations.

Architecture (Professional and Postprofessional)

Applicants should submit work in digital format. Portfolios should include drawings from life, interior and exterior drawings of buildings, and work that demonstrates the applicant's personal creativity. Portfolios should demonstrate drawing ability and attention to detail. Drawings from observation are encouraged. Examples of work should include freehand sketches, renderings, CAD drawings and any other work that expresses the applicant's individual style.

Art History

Applicants should submit a substantial college-level research paper or professional writing demonstrating critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. A research paper should employ appropriate documentation and may include illustrations.

Arts Administration

Applicants should submit a substantial portfolio of writing samples (up to 20 pages), which may include college-level research papers or professional writing demonstrating critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. Other writing samples may include essays, grant proposals, press releases, planning documents and journalistic work.

Broadcast Design and Motion Graphics

Work should be submitted in digital format as a DVD or as QuickTime and PDF files. The portfolio should consist of work that shows strong evidence of design, typographic motion and animation skills. Portfolios should show aesthetic awareness and conceptual thinking. In addition, portfolios should show knowledge and effective use of industry software and tools to support the aesthetic. When submitting examples of collaborative work, applicants should indicate their specific responsibilities on the project.

Cinema Studies

Applicants should submit a substantial college-level research paper or professional writing demonstrating critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. Additional writing samples related to cinema studies also may be submitted for consideration.

Commercial Photography

Applicants should submit work in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or similar format is preferred. The inventory sheet should indicate which images, if any, have been digitally manipulated, especially if the work is submitted in CD format. The portfolio as a whole should exhibit a coherence of vision and excellence in craft. The images should demonstrate significant experience in making photographs, aesthetic awareness and maturity, and strong technical skills. The portfolio should make evident the applicant's capacity to develop an in-depth and consistent investigation into a particular subject matter or design aesthetic applicable to commercial photography with an outcome that demonstrates an individual style as well as visual continuity. In addition, applicants are encouraged to electronically submit at least one sample of scholarly writing to demonstrate written communication skills.

Design Management

Work should be submitted in digital format, and may be in the form of a visual portfolio, business document, or academic research paper. Portfolios should include academic or professional projects that clearly present purpose, scope of work, research methodology and accomplishments. Portfolios should demonstrate ability to define and process problems using sketches, plans or diagrams in formal documents or informal journal notes; reveal confidence or experience in innovation, and demonstrate a high level of creativity. A strong portfolio may demonstrate an advanced understanding visual problem solving and process, including evidence of contextual research, applied human factors, rapid design and presentation quality sketching, CAD renderings, prototyping, and basic manufacturing or engineering principles. Portfolios may contain written material in addition to a strong visual or graphic element. Non-visual project summaries such as business plans, proposals, project briefs or presentations are encouraged.

Digital Photography

Applicants must submit work in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or similar format is preferred. The inventory sheet should indicate the nature of digital manipulation to the images. The portfolio as a whole should exhibit a coherence of vision, an excellence in craft, and a strong understanding of current software and hardware. The images should demonstrate significant experience in making photographs, aesthetic awareness and maturity, and strong technical skills. The portfolio should make evident the applicant's capacity to develop an in-depth and consistent investigation into a particular subject matter, aesthetic or genre with an outcome that demonstrates artistic maturity as well as visual continuity. In addition, applicants are encouraged to submit at least one sample of scholarly writing to demonstrate written communication skills.

Documentary Photography

Applicants must submit work in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or similar format is preferred. The inventory sheet should indicate which images, if any, have been digitally manipulated, especially if the work is submitted in CD format. The portfolio as a whole should exhibit a coherence of vision and excellence in craft. The images should demonstrate significant experience in making photographs, aesthetic awareness and maturity, and strong technical skills. The portfolio should make evident the applicant's capacity to develop an in-depth and consistent investigation into a particular subject matter or aesthetic applicable to documentary photography or photojournalism with an outcome that demonstrates artistic maturity as well as visual continuity. In addition, applicants are encouraged to submit at least one sample of scholarly writing to demonstrate written communication skills.

Dramatic Writing

Applicants should submit a substantial portfolio of their best writing, including at least six individual pieces.

Fashion

Applicants should submit work in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or similar format is preferred. Portfolios should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the design process through fashion illustration, sketches, flats and presentation boards. Applicants should present CAD-generated portfolio work using Photoshop and Illustrator or other such programs. Applicants should show competency in the use of various industrial machinery and sewing techniques, and should submit full-scale patterns, drapes and original sewn garments. The portfolio should demonstrate a high level of technical and conceptual ability, as well as creative research, investigation, problem solving and an awareness of material processes. Applicants also should demonstrate a well-developed personal and aesthetic/design direction in the ability to develop work around a theme or concept as evidenced by a series of related works.

Fibers

Applicants should submit a digital portfolio consisting of 20 examples of their best visual work. PDF or PowerPoint format is preferred. The portfolio should demonstrate a well-developed personal and aesthetic/design direction and the ability to develop work around a theme or concept as evidenced by one or more series of related works accompanied by an artist/designer statement. Applicants are also encouraged to submit electronically a selection of sketchbook/process/research work to demonstrate a high level of technical and conceptual ability, as well as creative research, investigation, problem solving and an awareness of material processes.

Film and Television

Work should be submitted as a 10-minute sample in digital or multimedia format. The inventory sheet should include details of the applicant's responsibilities in the creation of the project, including names of those responsible for lighting, editing, camera work and directing. The inventory sheet also should include production details such as format, duration and editing platform. Portfolios should show knowledge of film and television media and exhibit advanced conceptual awareness and experimentation with the chosen medium.

Furniture Design

Applicants should submit 20 images in digital format. PowerPoint or similar format is preferred. Media, dimensions, title, year and description should be included for each piece. The portfolio should demonstrate experience or competency in the full breadth of the design process, including research, creative thinking and problem-solving skills, informative sketching and idea visualization, model and computer visualization, full-scale execution, design presentation and aesthetic awareness.

Graphic Design

Work should be submitted in digital format as a single PDF (all projects included in one file) or in PowerPoint presentation. The portfolio must concentrate on graphic design as a problem-solving methodology and demonstrate conceptual thinking skills through linear and nonlinear processes. Additionally, work must demonstrate typographic usage as an aesthetic and communicative tool with single and multi-page projects such as annual reports, magazine spreads and/or catalogs. The portfolio should demonstrate the ability to convey complex compositional organization in single and multi-piece projects (campaign) and demonstrate the applicant's awareness of historical and contemporary image development techniques. Work samples should illustrate proficiency with the following software: Illustrator (vector imagery), Photoshop (raster imagery), Quark/InDesign (page layout) and Dreamweaver/Flash (Web authoring).

Historic Preservation

Applicants should submit a substantial college-level research paper (10-15 pages) demonstrating critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. In addition, if applicable, the portfolio may be augmented to include examples of work that communicate the applicant's artistic and creative abilities. Photographs, sketches, renderings and CAD drawings should be submitted digitally.

Illustration

Applicants should submit 20 pieces in digital format. PowerPoint, PDF or PS Web gallery presentations are preferred. The portfolio should demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to illustrative problem solving through finished illustrations responding to a range of illustrative assignments (full color and black and white); and illustration process samples (preliminary work, such as value studies, leading to the finish). In addition, in order to demonstrate good drawing skills, the portfolio must include finished drawings (dry media preferred) from life drawing classes and/or direct observation; and sketches (i.e. figures/objects noted in a personal sketchbook, journal or similar format).

Illustration Design

Applicants should submit submit up to 20 pieces in digital format. PowerPoint, PDF or PS Web gallery presentations are preferred. The portfolio should demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to illustrative and design solutions for visual problems through finished illustrations responding to a range of illustrative assignments (full color and black and white); and finished graphic design solutions. In addition, in order to demonstrate good drawing and visualization skills, the portfolio must include graphic design process samples (i.e. storyboard and/or preliminary work for graphic design finishes); and finished drawings (dry media preferred) from life drawing classes and/or direct observation.

Industrial Design

The portfolio should include examples of the applicant's best visual and written work. Visual work should be submitted in digital format and should include 20 high-quality color images of design solutions, along with a digitally presented process book that illustrates rapid ideation sketching and process work. Portfolios should exhibit an advanced understanding of visual problem solving and process, including evidence and understanding of contextual research, perspective and orthographic sketching, CAD renderings, model making and basic manufacturing or engineering principles; and may be augmented by additional work that represents interest and ability in some visual and creative profession, with an emphasis on visual problem solving. Written work should be submitted electronically and should not exceed three samples; at least one sample should be scholarly writing, such as a substantial college-level research paper, to demonstrate written communication skills.

Interactive Design and Game Development

Work should be submitted in digital or multimedia format. The portfolio should include 20 pieces showing traditional art and graphic design skills demonstrated through figure drawings, conceptual illustrations and page layout. A strong portfolio shows aesthetic awareness and includes effective use of 2-D form and composition, and an understanding of additive and subtractive color theory.

Applicants who intend to focus on interactive design should show interactive work, including interactive installations, experience designs, Web sites, software and other user interface designs, and show proficiency with Flash, Photoshop (or other image manipulation software) and Dreamweaver (or other Web authoring software). The portfolio should include samples of design work that demonstrate ability to apply typographic rules, layout and composition to Web applications.

Applicants who intend to focus on level design should include 3-D work and process level designs. 3-D environments should be submitted as walk-throughs and captured in QuickTime format and rendered stills. 3-D characters and objects should be submitted in the form of turntables in QuickTime format, or in model sheets showing UV map layouts. Applicants must show proficiency with Maya or 3DS Max (3-D), Photoshop (image manipulation).

Applicants who intend to focus on game design should show three to five original designs in digital or non-digital format including rule sets (if applicable), samples of design documentation, and supporting critical analysis. The portfolio should include samples of design work that demonstrate ability to communicate rules to players, provide appropriate feedback, set a theme, apply effective mechanics to carry out the theme and create the desired level of strategy and player immersion.

Interior Design

Work should be submitted in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or similar format is preferred. The portfolio should include work from all phases of design: conceptual and process drawings, sketches, perspectives and technical drawings. Drawings from life and other creative works also are encouraged. Attention to detail and presentation format are important. Work from an undergraduate program should be accompanied by a program brief, outlining the project parameters. Applicants to the M.F.A. program should include floor plans, elevations, sections, lighting and power plans. Applicants to the M.A. program may present a substantial college-level research paper in lieu of a portfolio. Research topics should be contemporary, impacting the future of interior environments, and demonstrating the applicant's critical thinking, analytical and writing skills.

Luxury and Fashion Management

Applicants should submit work electronically and in digital format. The portfolio must include an academically-structured essay that addresses the question, "What is the future of fashion marketing, merchandising and management?" A professional personal development plan also should be included. The portfolio should demonstrate ability to define and process problems, plan or diagram strategies, reveal confidence in innovation, and demonstrate a high level of creative problem solving. Non-visual project summaries such as business plans, proposals, project briefs, or presentations are considered. A strong visual or graphic element is strongly recommended.

Metals and Jewelry

Applicants should submit 20 pieces in digital format. Work should show evidence of experience in metals and/or jewelry, with a minimum of 10 slides showing work in jewelry and/or metalsmithing. If the applicant does not have 20 slides of jewelry or metalwork, he or she should show the strongest 3-D work, then evidence of drawing ability. Successful portfolios should demonstrate confident handling of diverse metals and jewelry processes, conceptualization skills and strong design methodology. Evidence of creative investigation, problem solving and appropriate and skillful use of materials is essential.

Painting

Work must be submitted in digital format. Applicants should submit a portfolio that demonstrates intellectual and artistic maturity, as well as the capacity to develop an idea through a series of work. Applicants should include a related series of most recent work that indicates their current artistic direction and demonstrates a committed studio practice. A written statement should accompany the portfolio to summarize the relevant issues in the current work, and provide a sense of the direction the work might take during graduate study.

Performing Arts

Applicants should prepare a four-minute performance to present in an audition and interview at the college. Applicants who are unable to attend a SCAD audition may submit a four-minute performance on CD or DVD. All applicants should prepare two contrasting monologues or one monologue and a song or dance. If the applicant plans to sing or dance in the audition, he or she must supply the music for accompaniment in the rehearsed key. Live auditions may include a cold reading. A list of pieces that have been prepared, résumé and headshot must be submitted at the audition. Performance is reviewed on the following qualitative measures: voice production, movement, musicality, physical commitment, energy, relaxation, characterization, memorization and character portrayal.

Photography

Work should be submitted in digital format. PowerPoint presentation or other similar format is preferred. The inventory sheet should indicate which images, if any, have been digitally manipulated, especially if the work is submitted in CD format. The portfolio as a whole should exhibit a coherence of vision and excellence in craft. The images should demonstrate significant experience in making photographs, aesthetic awareness and strong technical skills. The portfolio should make evident the applicant's capacity to develop an in-depth and consistent investigation into a particular subject matter, aesthetic or genre with an outcome that demonstrates artistic maturity as well as visual continuity. Applicants are encouraged to submit at least one sample of scholarly writing to demonstrate written communication s