Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah, GA, USA

Reviews

Savannah College of Art and Design

Julia from Evans, GA

a current student here
82 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I didn't imagine I would learn so much in one year but I have. It makes me excited to see what I will be learning the next 3 years.
Am enjoying being here
While it gets hot in Georgia, the facilities that SCAD provides are beyond amazing and make up for the dreadful heat (I'm from the north so I'm not so used to 90 degree weather everyday). You are right in the middle of historic Savannah with almost everything within walking distance...what more can an art student ask for? Also, if you think you know what an art store looks like, you have seen anything yet! The art stores in downtown Savannah are jaw-dropping. We aren't talking about your hometown's local craftstore anymore...this is the real thing!
Bang for the buck
Compared to some other art colleges it's not as expensive but it is still expensive regardless.
Tips for prospective students
Plan way in advance for both loans and scholarships (especially scholarships). It will be well worth your time to do scholarships before you get to SCAD because art students are very busy people!
Great for these types of students
Savannah is a wonderful place to study art and you will meet the best people here (professors, students, faculty, etc.). It's the perfect networking area and you'll come out a better artist if you invest your time well and work hard.

Jessica from Savannah, GA

a current student here
41 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers are awesome, they really know what they are doing and really want to help you learn. I have learned so much already and am only in my first year, they have the best equipment and cover so much information.
Am enjoying being here
It is a wonderful environment, all of the new people you meet are amazing and SCAD offers so much to do, a lot of clubs and events.
Bang for the buck
SCAD is on the expensive side, but it is worth every penny! Just make sure to apply to as many scholarships as you can.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure that you submit your absolute best work in your portfolio, and write a good essay, make sure it meets the required three pages. Also you want to make sure that you get really good recommendation letters from your teachers.
Great for these types of students
SCAD is perfect for anyone pursuing a career in the art and design fields, especially students who are dedicated and willing to put in a lot of work.

Sebastien from Hinesville, GA

a current student here
33 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
In my first quarter, I haven't really learned much as far as arts are concerned. Of the two fine arts classes I attended, 2D Design was the least stimulating. It was more about cutting and pasting than I would have hoped. However, Drawing I was challenging at times and taught me a few things about different materials new to me at the time.
The most I learned was about myself from living there the first quarter. It takes a not insignificant amount of self control and responsibility to keep up with all the deadlines and work outside of class hours.

That being said, once I've finished most of my foundations courses and begin my major-specific work, I feel I will be learning more than I can keep track of.

I can say that not matter how tedious or boring classes seemed at times, I could always take something new from my experience. Plus, none of my classes were as boring, or wretched in some cases, as most general study programs my friends at other colleges had to endure.
Am enjoying being here
It has really been great at SCAD. There's always something to do in Savannah, and, being downtown, nothing is more than a 10 minute walk away.

My friends who have visited tell me how lucky I am to have a dorm room that is larger than average, although with three people it can get a little cramped. The dorms I live in are nice and seem pretty new compared to the alternatives. There are even a sub shop and pizza place in the dorms themselves, and two buffet-style dining halls within 2-5 minutes of walking distance.

The food isn't bad by any measure, but it is a welcome change of pace to go out for food every once in a while. There are plenty of restaurants and fast food places nearby, with some great, and less costly, ones off River Street.

The classes aren't crowded, and the teachers are more than happy to help you out. Teachers are even disappointed in how little students see them for help during their office hours.

I can't comment much on the party scene at SCAD, and let it be known that I do not condone any illegal activities. Although SCAD is a dry and drug free campus, there are always people who manage to avoid the eye of security.

As far as I can tell, anyone who wants to party in downtown Savannah needs to be prepared to party-hop a fair amount. It seems like most parties are shutdown by the authorities relatively quickly. Also, all clubs in Savannah are 21 and up, so unless you procure a false ID or are of age, clubbing is out of the question.
Bang for the buck
I'm not sure exactly how much all the services provided to students is worth, but I feel like I've made a great investment in my choice of college, mostly because SCAD is the only well-known school with a Game Development program.

There are bus lines to each academic building and residence hall, the malls in Savannah, and department/grocery stores.

The facilities are well-kept and up-to-date and have a staff of diligent security personnel. Every member of the faculty has been kind and helpful to me and I feel like any problems I have can be solved in a timely and satisfactory manner.
Tips for prospective students
The first and most important tip I can give is to keep track of your deadlines and make use of your time on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays to complete your work. I don't recommend spending the WHOLE weekend studying, but a few hours each day or a dedicated Friday will go a long way to keeping you on track in your classes.

Second, do not count on the buses to remain 100% true to their schedules. Although they make a point to stay on time, and usually are, their reliability drops significantly after a class period has started. There are many less buses after the initial 20 minute rush hour to help tardy students get to class.

On the topic of late buses, be prepared for a long, long, looong wait for the extra-curricular buses to arrive, and an equally long wait to reach or return from your destination, whether it's Kroger, Wal-Mart, or the mall.

Third, participate in SCAD events. They are a lot of fun, especially if you have friends that can tag along, and you can meet a lot of new people. There are things going on almost every week that you can attend, not taking into account the athletic events/classes/workouts happening almost every day.

Also, it will help you get the all-important Passport Stamps required to pass First Year Experience.
Great for these types of students
Anyone who has the money to attend first of all. I wouldn't have gone to SCAD if I didn't have to financial aid to back me up. If this is a problem and you really want to go to SCAD, I recommend transferring like many of my friends and acquaintances who currently attend.

Overall I would recommend this school to someone who is looking for a job in a creative oriented field. Many of the teachers used to work in the fields related to what they teach, the career services department is very active in aiding students secure jobs/internships, and there are programs of study not available or of the same quality as there are at SCAD.

Plus, people tend to remember when you tell them you attend SCAD :p

Brittney from Nashville, TN

a current student here
30 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Since i have been at SCAD i have learned a lot from all of my professors. They are not only there to teach you but also to help you and if i might add. They are always willing to help any student in need.
Am enjoying being here
I am really enjoying being here at SCAD, i can honestly say that i can not think of any other college i would rather attend. SCAD is the place to be when it comes to never being bored out of your mined.
Bang for the buck
SCAD is an expensive college, but I can tell you it is worth every penny.
Tips for prospective students
Some tips i have for prospective students is to make sure your grades in high school are in good standing because if you are accepted you can get scholarships. Another tip i would give would be, SCAD is a college about good grades if you don't keep you grades up , they will and i repeat will kick you out. Scad's curriculum isn't hard it you keep up with your work and do not procrastinate all the time.
Great for these types of students
SCAD is great for students who are artistic, funny, outgoing,ready to learn, imagnative, creative, friendly, and hard working. What else can i say but weird, in a good way.

Brittney from McDonough, GA

a current student here
23 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Although you have a shorter amount of time to learn than in a traditional school, they squeeze every second you have to learning. All my professors were generally masters in their field and are able to convey each subject to you in an interesting way. Being an art school, creativity takes precedent over everything. Yes, there are many general education classes but they are spread out throughout your entire academic career. All in all, I believe that I am getting a topnotch education.
Am enjoying being here
The people at SCAD are generally friendly and there are many types of people there so meeting friends is rather easy. Classes in your field are always exciting. There is always something to do when not doing assignments. There are also many different types of clubs (I think there’s at least one or two for each major) which are generally fun for down time. But if that’s not you thing, then there’s all kinds of different actives on campus. Plays. Movies. Shows. Competitions. Savannah, the city, is a beautiful historical town. Even exploring the town on a tour could be interesting. I could go on and on. There will be no problems finding something to do.
Bang for the buck
There’s no getting around how expensive the school is, but I promise you, you’ll get a lot. For all those dollars you get so many majors and minors, to help you get to your specific ideal-job.
Tips for prospective students
Look for good deals wherever you can. Scholarships, Grants, Loans, and buying books and supplies online. Get savings wherever you can. You’ll need every dime.
Great for these types of students
Artistic and creative people. I kid you not when I tell you I’ve met all kinds of people and most people can learn to do well.

Bryanna from Baltimore, MD

a current student here
20 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned so much during my first quarter at SCAD. I can easily see an improvement in all of my artwork. The professors have worked in the field and some currently do so they know what they are talking about.
Am enjoying being here
I am having so much fun. It is quite simple to make new friends and we all have had a good time here so far. There is always something to do everyday its hard to be bored. They have companies come and visit every week. SCAD also hosts its own film festival and I met a bunch of people who currently work in the field.
Bang for the buck
SCAD like most art schools is a bit pricey but from my experience it is worth the price. You get a quality education from the beginning. Once you include in all the resources provided and just the reputation of the school you are getting a deal. After considering all I have gained from one quarter I can assure you the price is reasonable. Also SCAD has tons of scholarship and grant opportunities.
Tips for prospective students
1. Apply early even if you are not sure. The application is cheap and you have a better chance of receiving a scholarship.
2. If you love art this is the school for you.
3. Don't worry about being the best at the beginning everyone is. The whole point of going to school is to learn and be better. Trust me you will see the progression in your artwork after only a couple weeks.
Great for these types of students
1. Determined
2. Motivated
3. Artistic

Wendy from Oakham, MA

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Every teacher I met REALLY has a wonderful understanding on their subjects and has taught me more than I've ever thought I would. The classes are hard though and the grading system is even more hard. To be able to do well you're not going to be able to get away with partying all of the time.
Am enjoying being here
The historic downtown district is beautiful...as long as you stay in historic downtown. It's a city even though it doesn't seem like it and as soon as you get outside of downtown you get into the ghetto. You'll be living miles away where there's robbery's and all. If you have your street smarts you'll be fine and you'll really enjoy being there despite that fact. There's always something going on being such a big tourist spot. You have fairs all the time, beer fest, and fireworks every first Friday of the month during the spring, summer, and fall.
You'll also be happy to know that EVERYTHING you need is right downtown. There's (from what I know) at least three art stores right downtown and they have everything you'll ever need for any of your projects. They're always really helpful there too. Just don't be surprised when you drop 150+ on supplies for your classes each semester...but really that's what we get being art students though and you'll get that at any art school.
The weather is hot as heck and the humidity is terrible. I describe it as you'll be standing there doing nothing, and you'll thinking your sweating, but really it's like you're just collecting the humidity around you. You get used to it through in the end and got a laugh when I was outside eating at a cafe in shorts, t-shirt, and flip-flops when home called telling me about how it was snowing. One thing that's wonderful is I have really bad asthma, and really bad allergies. It was like I was cured when I went to SCAD, I took my asthma spray once when I was at Club SCAD working out, and I never had problems with my allergies.
Bang for the buck
It's a private school, it's going to be expensive. In the end though you're going to get a GREAT education and you'll have the name of an amazing school behind you. I do recommend if you're a high school student to go to community college first. You'll have a better chance getting your preliminary classes over with (especially english, social sciences, maths etc (make sure you take speech and public speaking)) I know it may not be what everyone wants to do, but believe me, I went to community college first despite what I initially wanted to do when I got out of High School, and now I couldn't be happier and I've saved A BUNCH of money.
Tips for prospective students
SCAD is an absolutely amazing school but just make sure you get more scholarships than the ones they provide. The grading there is a B- or B+ is the same as a B and a 3.5 G.P.A. is an average of an A (this is what you'll usually have to maintain to keep the scholarships they give to you.

Basically be careful, it's hard to keep your grades in this category and they're sneaky and you don't find out what your grades are really going to have to be before you go there.

Again, go to community college first, get the easy stuff over with. I can't imagine getting the things like english and math over while I'm there. It's the quarter system (you have three quarters/semesters in a year (fall quarter goes from September to November, Winter is January to March and Spring is from March to June.)) Everything is really fast paced and intense so you'd be better of going somewhere else first and transferring. SCAD is usually really good about how things transfer and you'll be more likely to get good scholarships that way as well.
Great for these types of students
Anyone artistically inclined and looking for a great art education :]

Madison

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
SCAD is an amazing creative environment that pushes students to excel in their future career paths. With their endless resources and connections it is guaranteed you will land your dream job. If you want to be apart of an inspiring, supportive and flourishing work place, then SCAD is the place for you.
Tips for prospective students
From the moment I saw SCAD, I knew that it was the place for me but, part of me was afraid that I was not good enough. After my first day of Freshman year I realized the "I'm not good enough" feeling was mutual among almost all of my peers. I was worried that the workload would be overwhelming and my talent would not be up to par. Don't stress it, just remind yourself that you will meet friends that are in the same boat as you. The professors here at SCAD grade strictly of effort and progress, I recommend staying motivated and you will excel far beyond what you could imagine.
Academic Rigor
My senior year of high school I told people that I was attending art school. I received a few giggles and shrugs as if it were an easy route to college. I will be the first to say it is NOT easy. Spending a minimum of eight hours on a project is common on a weekly basis. It may sound overwhelming but, with time management skills you can do it. SCAD does not have classes on Fridays, this is so that you have extra time to work on homework or get extra help. Although our academics are demanding, the professors are very understanding and helpful. SCAD is preparing us for the hard work that we will face so that it is not a shock when we go into the "real world."
Dorm Life
Prior to attending SCAD, I recall stressing about how I will tolerate dorm life. Now, I can proudly say I love it here. SCAD has a variety of dorm options, 3 people to a room, 2 people to a room, 4 people to a suit (1 common room and 2 bedroom, apartment style). You may here many dorm horror stories but, I feel like I am living in a hotel. I live in the Hive Building, this is a 4 Person Suit. There are two bedrooms (2 people per room) our own shower, kitchenette, bathroom and living area. If that doesn't sound luxurious enough, we have amenities such as a pool and gym open to all SCAD students. Most importantly, our dorms all have high level security, guards are on duty 24/7 making sure that nobody but students are able to get inside.
Food and Dining
For a college our food is pretty good. Bon Appetit is a catering company that supplies all staff and meals to our dining halls. Our options change daily. Local farmers supply a lot of our fresh food. The dining hall hours are convenient with class schedules. We have a variety of different dining halls, the majority are buffet style. We also have a Diner and Asian restaurant- style dining halls. There is an option for everybody.
What to do for fun
Savannah is a very historic city with so much to do. The city is most popular for it's history, there are many ghost tours that are very entertaining and educational. It is common to take a trip to Tybee Island Beach on a hot day to cool off and de-stress. We also have many museums whether you like art or history, we have it all. Savannah is a beautiful place, it is hard to not have fun just simply walking down the cobble stone streets absorbing it's beauty. Take a camera on a walk with you and you are guaranteed to have a good time.
Bang for the buck
SCAD is a little bit on the pricy side for college but, it is worth it. The school has amazing resources and connections. They truly care for the students and you are guaranteed to be employed six months after graduation date. There is a 98% employment, if you are not employed after graduation a career advisor will contact you and find you a job.In some ways SCAD is run like a business, I think this is a good thing in our modern society, students are able to become strong business men and women and have very high standards for themselves. SCAD offers a lot of scholarship, you just need to ask because you will not regret working your but off when you land your dream job.
Great for these types of students
You must be driven and passionate about art. If you are not motivated to succeed and do your very best, then SCAD may not be the place for you. This school requires a lot of focus and heavy work loads. Don't be intimidated, It is all fun and you will be happy to work hard as long as you are doing what you love.
Clubs and Activities
SCAD offers a large variety of clubs. Every year there is a Fall Festival available to students to learn about new clubs they might be interested in. They range from major related clubs to just fun stress relievers like pool noodle sword fighting. SCAD tries to make college a fun experience for everyone and with fun comes friendships/connections and with that comes an inspiring environment.
Greek Life
SCAD does not have Greek Life and probably never will. A lot of my friends are involved in Greek Life and I though it would be something I would feel left out of coming to SCAD but, I find that I don't. At SCAD you most likely will not have time for anything like Greek Life, you will be fully involved in the creative atmosphere and you will find that you need nothing else.
Campus Safety
SCAD has an extremely secure campus. You are given a Student ID that grants access to all SCAD buildings, this key allows you to electronically scan into dorms, classes, libraries, etc. On top of that a security guard checks each ID for authenticity 24/7. They have a rule that a guard must tap your ID (with their finger) before granting entrance, this ensures that the ID is looked at. There are also many safety apps that keep students in live contact with security in the case of an emergency.

Ana from Savannah, GA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This college is meant for those who want to be themselves or want to discover themselves. The classes feel almost personalized, everyone cares about your education and how you do. Basically, everyone accepts you without judging you and wants the best for you.
Tips for prospective students
Some students come like if SCAD is a piece of cake, but it isn't. You'll have to work hard to do good, pull all-nighters if you have to, treat your piece like if it was your baby, and specially love what you do.
I'm not saying forget about your social life, but at least focus on your classes, because at the end of the day it affects you and your future.
Academic Rigor
I have never been so interested in classes before. I never woke up complaining about going to class. Professors try to keep it interesting, they want to make sure that you actually learn and make it fun instead of tedious.
Dorm Life
Is not bad nor great. The advantage of staying in the dorms is that you get to socialize, make friends, network (SCAD favorite word), with other students with different majors than yours and in the long run you'll realize that you might need their help for a final project. This will be something that it'll be hard if you're not living on campus. T
he dorms are okay, but compare to other university dorms (as in the rooms) these are 5 stars.
Food and Dining
If you're trying to have a healthy life, believe me it'll be hard. They are changing the Sodexo concessionary this year, so I don't know what to expect or tell you about how's going to be. But during my first year I saw people gaining weight and others losing lots of weight. What I did was I balanced it out, sometimes I ate in the cafeteria and sometimes I went out to eat something healthy and good.
What to do for fun
You have to consider this is a small city. There aren't lots of stores like in New York City, the entertainment is not like Las Vegas, but it has little butiques, two malls, parks everywhere. Which is nice for a change of the city life. This is a perfect getaway.
Bang for the buck
All my family is spending for my education is worth it! I have never learned so much and either do so good! Everything I do in this school I love it, and every single day I realize that SCAD and design is meant to be mine. Coming to SCAD was by far one of my best decisions.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Well I come from a different culture so everything is new to me. I love it though. Some things I might find it strange but then after a while, I realize I have embrace other students culture.
Clubs and Activities
There are plenty of options for you to choose. There are some clubs that I didn't even know it possibly existed but, is good to go out and explore.
Greek Life
There's no greek life, but that's why SCAD is so unique and accepting. I have heard so many bad stories about Geek Life, that I am so pleased to know that SCAD is not like that and it doesn't fit in the criteria to have a Greek life. Is better this way, everyone can be and do whatever they want to, without being judged or bullied.
Campus Safety
Nothing has ever happened to me although they claim that Savannah is a dangerous place. I don't think it that way, since my city is way much more dangerous. I'm used to kidnaps, stealing, murders, etc. and coming here, is like going to heaven. But indeed people need to be careful and know where to be and where not to be during the times of the day. At night is better to be in a group than all alone.

Lauren from Warner Robins, GA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I enrolled in this art school not knowing the basics, and was apprehensive about attending. However, within the one year and one quarter that I've been in classes, my fears have been proven insignificant. The professors really walk you through everything, allow one on one time for extra help, and your classes are set up in that you learn from the very beginning and work your way up into your major.
Am enjoying being here
This school is not set on a traditional campus, which is a feature I love. This really lets you explore all Savannah has to offer. SCAD is really involved in the community, so students have access to a variety of community service, festivals, and other town events.
Bang for the buck
Any student attending SCAD will agree that it is a hefty price tag, however after being here as long as I have I can't really complain. The technology and programs offered for every student is top of the line, events are well coordinated and executed, the quality of teachings is superb, and the overall life at SCAD is appropriate to what I am paying. Compared to any other school offering a Graphic Design major, SCAD is by far the best.
Tips for prospective students
I would encourage students to get involved as much as schedules allow. Not only does it improve resumes, but it is a great way to meet people with like interests.
Also, don't underestimate the hard work and art class entails. It may be art, but professors expect no less than your best.
Great for these types of students
Hard-working, dedicated, art-loving, those who love culture.