School of Foundation Studies
Set the base for success at SCAD
Through the SCAD School of Foundation Studies, each SCAD undergraduate student develops a comprehensive visual, conceptual, and creative language essential for success via a rigorous studio experience. Students advance to professionally tailored courses that move in the direction of their professional aspirations and teach the connection between research, drawing, design process, and environmental and cultural influences.
Every SCAD undergraduate student's educational experience is anchored by SCAD Core, which includes rigorous courses in drawing and design that provide students with a studio experience that builds visual, conceptual, and creative abilities. Students choose general education courses that match their academic studies and professional aspirations. Courses are designed to develop six core competencies.
Utilizing visual language
Students exhibit proficiency in visual communication through intentional application of design fundamentals.
- Students apply 2D and 3D elements and principles of design to create cohesive compositions using both analog and digital processes.
- Students execute media and techniques with technical accuracy to communicate form, content, and concept through intentional material choices.
Developing creative solutions
Students generate innovative solutions to design problems.
- Students apply research, critical analysis, and iterative ideation to develop multiple viable solutions in response to project criteria.
- Students synthesize research findings, peer critique, and iterative feedback to refine final design solutions.
Responding to art and design
Students evaluate creative work through critical analysis and professional documentation practices.
- Students articulate their design process and development by connecting solutions to research, theories, and creative methodologies.
- Students use discipline-specific vocabulary while critiquing and documenting their process and final work in alignment with professional standards.
Employing collaborative design practices
Students achieve professional competency through research-informed collaboration and systematic problem-solving processes.
- Students work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, contributing ideas and responding to feedback throughout all phases of the design process.
- Students apply collaborative design methodologies to develop innovative solutions that integrate multiple perspectives, user needs, and contextual research.
In addition to the expansive foundation studies curriculum, SCAD offers a remarkable array of support and learning services to guide new students as they find their creative voice. The SCAD Drawing and Design Center conducts peer tutoring and workshops to develop drawing techniques and design processes. First-year students may attend lectures featuring upper-level SCAD students and alumni who discuss how their current work is rooted in their foundation studies experience. Students are guided throughout their experience by foundation studies faculty that hold terminal degrees and high acclaim.