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Mission Statement
The Savannah College of Art and Design exists to prepare talented students for professional careers, emphasizing learning through individual attention in a positively oriented university environment.
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
The Savannah College of Art and Design is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; telephone number 404.679.4500) to award bachelor's and master's degrees.
National Architectural Accrediting Board
The five-year, professional Master of Architecture degree offered by the Savannah College of Art and Design is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
In the United States, most state registration boards require a degree from an accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite for licensure. The National Architectural Accrediting Board, which is the sole agency authorized to accredit U.S. professional degree programs in architecture, recognizes three types of degrees: the Bachelor of Architecture, the Master of Architecture and the Doctor of Architecture. A program may be granted a six-year, three-year or two-year term of accreditation, depending on the extent of its conformance with established educational standards. Master's degree programs may consist of a pre-professional undergraduate degree and a professional graduate degree, that, when earned sequentially, constitute an accredited professional education. However, the pre-professional degree is not, by itself, recognized by the NAAB as an accredited degree. The Savannah College of Art and Design professional M.Arch. degree program holds the maximum six-year term of accreditation from the NAAB.
Georgia Professional Standards Commission
The Master of Arts in Teaching degrees offered by the Savannah College of Art and Design are approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, a body created by the Georgia General Assembly to assume full responsibility for the certification, preparation, and conduct of certified, licensed, or permitted personnel employed in the public schools of the State of Georgia. The Commission is also responsible for the development and administration of teacher certification testing.
Memberships
Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education
The Savannah College of Art and Design is a member of the Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Education. The ARCHE cross-registration process facilitates enrollment in courses offered at all member colleges and universities. Students at ARCHE member institutions have the opportunity to broaden their range of study through access to courses not offered at their home institution. Atlanta students who wish to participate in the cross-registration program must submit an application to the registrar's office. Approval for cross-registration does not guarantee placement in courses at the host institution. More information about ARCHE is available at www.atlantahighered.org.
EDUCAUSE
EDUCAUSE is a nonprofit association whose mission is to advance higher education by promoting the intelligent use of information technology. EDUCAUSE helps those who lead, manage and use information resources to shape strategic decisions at every level. EDUCAUSE programs include professional development activities, applied research, strategic policy advocacy, teaching and learning initiatives, online information services, print and electronic publications, special interest collaborative communities, and awards for leadership and innovation.
eLearning Guild
The eLearning Guild is a Community of Practice for eLearning design, development, and management professionals. The Guild offers members high-quality learning opportunities, networking services, resources, and publications. Members represent a diverse group of managers, directors, and executives focused on training and learning services, as well as eLearning instructional designers, content developers, web developers, project managers, contractors, and consultants. Guild members work in a variety of settings including corporate, government, and academic organizations. All members share a common interest in eLearning design, development, and management.
Georgia Foundation for Independent Colleges
The Georgia Foundation for Independent Colleges is an association of Georgia's 26 private, independent colleges and universities. Through partnerships with the institutions, businesses, and community leaders, GFIC supports private higher education in Georgia in the areas of public policy, fundraising for student financial aid, and collaborative programs.
National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities
The National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities serves as the unified national voice of independent higher education. Since 1976, the association has represented private colleges and universities on policy issues with the federal government, such as those affecting student aid, taxation, and government regulation. The NAICU staff meets with policymakers, tracks campus trends, conducts research, analyzes higher education issues, publishes information, helps coordinate state-level activities, and advises members of legislative and regulatory developments with potential impact on their institutions. In addition, NAICU has spearheaded several major public initiatives, such as the Student Aid Alliance, an ambitious effort to enhance funding for existing student aid programs; and the nonpartisan National Campus Voter Registration Project that, in the last three congressional elections, has helped member institutions conduct both voter education programs and campaigns to register students and employees. With nearly 1,000 members nationwide, NAICU reflects the diversity of private, nonprofit higher education in the United States. NAICU also has joined in a protocol of agreement with the Foundation for Independent Higher Education and the Council of Independent Colleges to enhance the cooperation, partnership, and collaboration among the three organizations to better serve independent higher education.
Sloan Consortium
The purpose of the Sloan Consortium is to help learning organizations continually improve quality, scale, and breadth of their online programs according to their own distinctive missions, so that education will become a part of everyday life, accessible and affordable for anyone, anywhere, at any time, in a wide variety of disciplines. Created with funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, Sloan-C encourages the collaborative sharing of knowledge and effective practices to improve online education in learning effectiveness, access, affordability for learners and providers, and student and faculty satisfaction.
Sloan-C generates ideas to improve products, services and standards for the online learning industry, and assists members in collaborative initiatives. Members include (1) private and public universities and colleges, community colleges and other accredited course and degree providers, and (2) organizations and suppliers of services, equipments, and tools that practice the Sloan-C quality principles.
U.S. Distance Learning Association
In 1987, the USDLA was founded on the premise of creating a powerful alliance to meet the burgeoning education and training needs of learning communities globally. USDLA supports the development and application of distance learning education and training by uniting learners around the world and serves the needs of the distance learning community by providing advocacy, information, and opportunity for networking. USDLA is committed to being the leading distance learning association in the United States.
Nondiscrimination Policy
The Savannah College of Art and Design admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the college. The college does not discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, marital or parental status, disability, religion, veteran status or status in any group protected by applicable law in administering its educational policies, admission policies, scholarships or loan programs, athletics programs or activities generally made available to students at the college.
Undergraduate Programs
Undergraduate programs embrace a wide range of major areas and are designed to challenge students to perform at a high level, preparing them for professional careers. A well-rounded curriculum provides students with core courses in foundation studies and general education leading to focused major programs emphasizing development of academic knowledge, technical and analytical skills, aesthetic sensibility, and the ability to express ideas visually and verbally. Students are expected to begin assembling a portfolio their first year and to maintain a collection of their finest work through graduation. To encourage academic and professional success, portfolios are reviewed and evaluated on a regular basis by faculty members. Students are expected to keep documentation of their work as appropriate to their major.
Bachelor of Arts Degree
The Bachelor of Arts degree program is a four-year course of study requiring 180 quarter credit hours (equivalent to 120 semester credit hours) and incorporating a fine arts foundation studies curriculum, general education curriculum, area of concentration curriculum and electives. The majority of the Bachelor of Arts curriculum consists of fine arts, humanities, general education and liberal arts courses. An area of study concentration complements the coursework. In the foundation studies curriculum, students receive instruction in basic principles, elements and techniques of art and design. In the general education curriculum, they are exposed to a broad base of knowledge through courses in humanities/fine arts, natural sciences/mathematics, social/behavioral sciences, oral communication and computer applications.
The area of concentration allows students to develop knowledge and skill in an area of focus. Students are required to take electives throughout the curriculum to broaden their experience and interests.
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree
The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program is a four-year course of study requiring 180 quarter credit hours (equivalent to 120 semester credit hours) and incorporating a fine arts foundation studies curriculum, general education curriculum, major program curriculum and electives. In the foundation studies curriculum, students receive instruction in basic principles, elements and techniques of art and design. In the general education curriculum, they are exposed to a broad base of knowledge through courses in humanities/fine arts, natural sciences/mathematics, social/behavioral sciences, oral communication and computer applications.
In the major programs, students work toward developing knowledge, skills and a level of mastery in a specific discipline. Students are required to take electives to broaden their experience and interests.
Undergraduate Certificate
The Savannah College of Art and Design offers certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs are designed to provide special preparation in an area complementary to the student's major or profession. Current students may pursue a certificate by contacting either the registrar or the office of academic advising. Additional coursework may be required to earn a certificate concurrent with an undergraduate degree.
The majority of certificate coursework cannot be redundant with degree program requirements. Degree-seeking students must complete certificate coursework prior to or within the final quarter of registration in degree coursework. New students may apply for admission to a certificate program by following the undergraduate admission requirements. Certificate programs may be earned in the traditional classroom, through SCAD-eLearning, or through a combination of locations and learning modalities.
Undergraduate Double Majors
Many of the undergraduate majors offered at the college complement each other, and students may choose to earn a double major. With careful course selection and financial planning, a double major may require only three or four additional quarters of work beyond that required for a single degree, yet students who put forth that extra effort gain credentials and expertise that may be invaluable to their careers. In order to double major, undergraduate students must complete all courses unique to each major. Students are not required to duplicate core curriculum courses, nor must they always take two sets of electives; however, a student may not use major coursework for one major to serve as major coursework in the second major. Major coursework for one major may count as free elective or studio credit in the second major program.
For information about completing a double major, undergraduate students should consult their professional staff academic adviser. Students also should check to be sure adequate financial aid is available, if needed, to cover the additional time and costs associated with completing coursework above the minimum credit hours required for a bachelor's degree. Academic deans, department chairs and faculty advisers also may be consulted. To graduate with a double major, students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in each major and a minimum overall grade point average of 2.0.
Undergraduate Minors
Minors are designed to appeal to students who wish to broaden their education and enhance their employment opportunities. Students enrolled in any bachelor's degree program may elect to declare a minor outside the major field of study. In each minor program, students must complete required introductory level courses followed by a sequence of advanced courses and/or carefully selected electives.
Required courses in the foundation studies curriculum or in the general education curriculum may count toward a minor. The minor may require the student to complete more than the minimum number of quarter hours required for graduation so students should check to be sure adequate financial aid is available, if needed, to cover the additional time and cost. Students may choose to complete more than one minor or apply the hours earned for the minor toward the completion of a double major. For information about completing a minor, undergraduate students should consult their professional staff academic adviser. Academic deans, department chairs and faculty advisers also may be consulted.
In order to receive designation of a minor on his or her transcript, a student must satisfy the following requirements.
- Declare the minor in writing with the student's professional staff academic adviser and faculty adviser.
- Successfully complete a minimum of 40 quarter credit hours (eight courses) as specified in the minor course of study.
- Maintain an overall 2.0 grade point average in the minor.
Military Science (Army ROTC)
The Army Department of Military Science is a Senior Division Reserve Officer Training Corps Instructor Group staffed by Army personnel. The department provides a curriculum available to SCAD students that qualifies graduates of the college for commission as an officer in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve or the U.S. National Guard. Qualifying for a commission adds an extra dimension to the student's employment capability in that, upon graduation from the college, the student has either military or civilian employment options. Courses are complementary to the student's academic schedule.
Military science classes are designed to prepare students for service as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, and also provide knowledge and practical experience in leadership and management that is useful to any facet of society. Students are provided a working knowledge of the organization and functioning of the Department of Defense and the role of the U.S. Army in national security and world affairs.
The first two years of the course of study include basic military science courses and/or related military skill activities. In the second half of the program, students participate in advanced military science coursework. To be qualified to participate and remain in the advanced course, students must be physically qualified, maintain above average standing in academic and military coursework, and demonstrate potential for future leadership success. ROTC scholarships also are available. Entering students should contact the office of admission.
Undergraduate General Education Requirements
In each undergraduate degree program, students are required to successfully complete a substantial general education component of at least 45 quarter hours, which is the equivalent of 30 semester hours. The general education component is based on coherent rationale, ensures breadth of knowledge and encompasses the areas of humanities/fine arts, social/behavioral sciences, and natural sciences/mathematics. These courses do not narrowly focus on those skills, techniques and procedures specific to a particular occupation or profession, but rather are intended to provide a broad base of education upon which students may build. General education courses contribute to the ability to think critically and communicate effectively. The courses are designed to teach reasoning, analysis, aesthetic and cultural interpretation, research methods and technological approaches. The curriculum also emphasizes clear communication and coherent presentation of thoughts and ideas through assignments involving writing, speaking, research, analysis, planning and teamwork.
Specific general education course requirements are listed in each undergraduate program course of study. In addition to required courses, students are encouraged to select from a wide range of general education electives offered by the college.
Students should refer to the appropriate course of study for their chosen program and should consult with their faculty adviser or professional staff academic adviser when selecting or registering for any general education or elective course to ensure that the course meets the requirements of the program.
Undergraduate General Education Component
(Each major requires at least 45 quarter hours in general education courses, equal to at least 30 semester hours.)
Humanities/Fine Arts
(Required humanities and fine arts courses vary by major program of study. Fine arts foundation studies courses may include drawing, design and color theory.)
| ENGL |
123 |
Composition |
| PHIL |
301 |
Aesthetics |
| ARTH |
100 |
Survey of Western Art I |
| ARTH |
110
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Survey of Western Art II |
Social/Behavioral Sciences
(At least one course is required.)
| ANTH |
101 |
Introduction to Anthropology
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| ARCL |
200 |
Principles of Archaeology |
| POLS |
100 |
Introduction to American Government |
| PSYC |
101 |
Introduction to Psychology |
Natural Sciences/Mathematics
(At least one course is required.)
| ANAT |
100 |
General Anatomy |
| ASTR |
101 |
Introduction to Astronomy |
| BIOL |
100 |
Environmental Science |
| MATH |
100 |
Basic Mathematics* |
| MATH |
101 |
Intermediate Mathematics |
| MATH |
201 |
Applied Mathematics
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(*Consult course of study and undergraduate mathematics requirement.)
General Education Elective(s)
Students should consult their course of study, faculty adviser and professional staff academic adviser.
Undergraduate Mathematics Requirement
The college ensures that all undergraduate students are able to demonstrate fundamental mathematics competency by passing the college's math competency exam; or by successfully completing MATH 100 Basic Mathematics, MATH 101 Intermediate Mathematics or MATH 201 Applied Mathematics; or by presenting proof of appropriate math scores on the Advanced Placement, College Level Examination Program or International Baccalaureate examinations. AP, CLEP and IB scores also may qualify students for transfer credit in addition to satisfying the mathematics requirement.
Students who have successfully completed at another college or university a collegiate course similar in content and level of instruction to MATH 100 Basic Mathematics, MATH 101 Intermediate Mathematics or MATH 201 Applied Mathematics may be allowed to transfer that course in satisfaction of the mathematics requirement.
Students may take the SCAD math competency exam during orientation or during other advertised testing periods throughout the academic year. Students must take the math competency exam or successfully complete the mathematics requirement within their first 90 credit hours of study to avoid an advisement hold.
Students who qualify to exempt or who score above the minimum on the math competency exam may take any math or natural science class to satisfy the natural sciences/mathematics general education requirement. Students should consult with a professional staff academic adviser before registering for any math or science courses to be sure they meet the requirements for their specific program of study.
Undergraduate architecture students must successfully complete MATH 201 Applied Mathematics before entering their third year of coursework.
Graduate Programs
Graduate programs at SCAD are designed for dedicated, self-motivated students who are committed to the pursuit of excellence through advanced study. Graduate curricula are structured to include knowledge of the literature of the discipline and to ensure ongoing student engagement in research and/or appropriate professional practice and training experiences. Graduate courses require students to analyze, explore, question, reconsider and synthesize old and new knowledge and skills. The graduate experience culminates in student teaching or in a thesis or final project demonstrating a mature and resolved body of work and/or research. Graduates are prepared to hold leadership positions, to enter a variety of professional disciplines, to teach, or to accomplish other personal and professional goals.
Master of Architecture Degree (Professional)
The accredited, professional Master of Architecture degree program is a five-year course of study requiring 180 undergraduate hours and 45 graduate hours for a total of 225 quarter credit hours encompassing a foundation studies curriculum, general education curriculum, major program curriculum and electives. The emphasis of the program is on preparing students to become practicing architects. Architectural design is stressed in design studio classes that meet 10 hours each week in addition to the architecture student's other courses. The program also contains a sequence of courses in structures, construction technology, environmental control, computer-aided design and professional practices.
For the initial 180 quarter credit hours of the program, students are classified as undergraduates. After successfully completing 150 undergraduate credit hours and a fourth-year portfolio review, students may apply to the architecture department committee for entry into the graduate year of the program, which consists of 45 graduate quarter credit hours in residence. The application is made through the architecture department and does not require a fee. Acceptance to the graduate year is based on the student's current grade point average, studio portfolio and proposal for thesis. After successfully completing 180 undergraduate quarter credit hours and all academic requirements for the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in architecture, students are granted the B.F.A. in architecture, whether or not they apply for or are accepted into the graduate year of the professional M.Arch. program. Students accepted into the graduate year of the professional M.Arch. program continue enrollment to take their final 45 graduate quarter credit hours. They receive the B.F.A. in architecture and then are considered graduate students, subject to all graduate academic and financial policies.
Master of Architecture Degree (Postprofessional)
The postprofessional Master of Architecture program requires 45 graduate quarter credit hours. This degree is designed for students who have earned a NAAB-accredited professional architecture degree and who elect to pursue a graduate degree with emphasis on computer-aided design or urban design. Students applying to the postprofessional M.Arch. program may be required to take preliminary courses before being accepted into the graduate degree program. The postprofessional M.Arch. program is not a professional degree as defined by the National Architectural Accrediting Board and, therefore, is not accredited by the NAAB.
Master of Arts Degree
The Master of Arts degree is an initial graduate degree that requires at least 45 quarter credit hours of graduate level courses in the selected area, complemented by historical, theoretical and related studies. The program requires a minimum of one year for completion with the final 45 quarter hours in residency at any SCAD campus, or through SCAD-eLearning or any SCAD off-campus program. The M.A. culminates with a written thesis or graduate project such as a portfolio or group exhibition, presentation or other creative work product demonstrating a high degree of intellectual or artistic proficiency accompanied by a written component. Formal faculty reviews of sample student work and progress are conducted. The art history and architectural history M.A. programs require that candidates demonstrate foreign language reading comprehension proficiency and pass a written comprehensive examination. The M.A. degree program may be research and/or practice oriented to offer students a focused educational experience while engaging in dialogue on the history, theory and practice of the discipline. Students who wish to pursue the M.A. degree should possess a commitment to explore a field in depth as well as a desire to foster their individual vision and capabilities; to develop a high degree of proficiency in their technical, creative, expressive or analytical skills; and to participate in a vibrant university community. The M.A. degree prepares students for positions in related areas or serves as preparation for advanced graduate degrees such as the Master of Fine Arts or the Doctor of Philosophy in academic disciplines.
The M.A. degree may be followed by additional study at the college leading to an M.F.A. degree. Students planning to continue the next quarter (excluding summer) from the M.A. to the M.F.A. in the same major should contact the office of graduate studies prior to the conclusion of their M.A. studies. Approval must be given by the department chair of the area of study.
Master of Arts in Teaching Degree
The Master of Arts in Teaching program requires 60 quarter credit hours to be completed in one full year (four quarters) of intensive study and field experience with the final 45 quarter hours in residency at any SCAD campus, or through SCAD-eLearning or any SCAD off-campus program. The M.A.T. is designed to meet the State of Georgia standards for initial certification to teach art or drama in PK through grade 12. Graduates may go on to teach elsewhere, however, as Georgia participates in an interstate agreement and shares certification reciprocity with 51 jurisdictions across the United States.
Teacher candidates in the M.A.T. program acquire the fundamental principles of teaching and learning, the discipline-specific principles of teaching art or drama, and the ability to adapt these principles to a variety of settings. To maintain an artistically stimulating environment, candidates also pursue graduate level courses in their arts disciplines.
M.A.T. candidates learn how to shape creating and performing experiences so that their projects and design challenges elicit high student engagement, consider cultural and historical contexts, and foster higher order thinking, collaboration and inquiry. In addition to project-based learning, candidates become familiar with general instructional strategies and teaching strategies associated with brain-based learning research and cognitive development. Candidates also learn how to employ arts-specific strategies that have evolved from experiential and aesthetic education, discipline-based art education, and visual thinking.
Coursework in the M.A.T. program includes a field component, with the exception of the studio electives. In this way, candidates learn theories and methods, grounded in practical experience. Because the program begins in the summer, candidates have the opportunity to observe students as they learn in non-traditional environments such as specialized art programs, classes, and museum-based programs, as well as in traditional classroom settings.
Master of Fine Arts Degree
The Master of Fine Arts degree is recognized as the terminal or highest degree for most art and design professions. The M.F.A. degree program requires 90 quarter credit hours of graduate level and upper division (300-400 level) courses in studio, art historical, theoretical and related areas. The program requires a minimum of two years for completion, with the final 45 quarter hours in residency at any SCAD campus, or through SCAD-eLearning or any SCAD off-campus program. The program culminates with a thesis exhibition, project, presentation, or other publicly-presented creative work demonstrating professional level competency, accompanied by a written component and reviewed by a graduate thesis committee. Formal faculty reviews of sample student work and progress are conducted. The M.F.A. requires at least one field or teaching internship to provide students with a mentored experience of professional practice.
Students who wish to pursue the M.F.A. degree should possess a high level of ability, commitment, and the desire to develop their personal vision; to evolve a mature understanding of their chosen field's background, principles and practices as well as its broader cultural context; to gain technical mastery in their chosen discipline; to inform advanced art and design creation with critical and conceptual studies; and to interact with fellow students and professors within a dynamic and challenging arts community. M.F.A. graduates may pursue professional careers as practicing artists, writers, performers and designers; for positions as studio, writing or performing arts professors in higher education; or for work in other related fields.
Master of Urban Design Degree
The Master of Urban Design program requires 90 quarter credit hours of graduate level and upper division courses in studio, historical, theoretical and related areas. The program requires a minimum of two years for completion, with the final 45 quarter hours in residency at any SCAD campus, or through SCAD-eLearning or any SCAD off-campus program. The program culminates with a thesis exhibition, project, presentation or other publicly presented work demonstrating professional level competency, accompanied by a written component and reviewed by a graduate thesis committee. Formal faculty reviews of sample student work and progress are conducted. The M.U.D. program requires at least one field or teaching internship.
Graduate Certificate
The Savannah College of Art and Design offers certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs are designed to provide special preparation in an area complementary to the student's major or profession. Current graduate students may pursue a graduate certificate by contacting either the registrar or the office of graduate academic advising. Additional coursework may be required to earn a certificate concurrent with a graduate degree. The majority of certificate coursework cannot be redundant with degree program requirements. Degree-seeking students must complete certificate coursework prior to or within the final quarter of registration in degree coursework. New students may apply for admission to a certificate program by following the graduate admission requirements. Certificate programs may be earned in the traditional classroom, through SCAD-eLearning, or through a combination of locations and modalities.
Course Catalog of Entry
An undergraduate student normally is expected to follow the requirements of the course catalog in effect at the time of his or her entry and first registration at the college. Students may choose, however, to fulfill the requirements of any subsequent course catalog within five years of their first enrollment at the college. If the student does not fulfill the degree requirements of the course catalog of entry within this time frame, he or she then is required to follow the requirements of a subsequent course catalog. Students who declare a double major or enroll in a minor program must remain on all the requirements listed in the catalog they are following for their primary major.
Graduate students normally follow the degree requirements of the course catalog in effect at the time of enrollment in the program. If the curriculum and degree requirements change during the five-year period after the student enrolls, the student may elect to follow the new degree requirements.
Students may be required to follow new degree requirements if courses required by previous programs have been eliminated from the course catalog; however, under no circumstances are students required to take any additional courses to earn the declared degree within five years of entry.
Internships
Internships provide undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to work in a professional environment and gain firsthand experience. Internships may be undertaken on a credit or non-credit basis and may be paid or unpaid. Typical internships place students with artists/designers or with organizations such as museums, advertising agencies, media production companies, theaters and architecture firms in the United States and abroad.
An undergraduate student seeking an internship for credit must have completed at least 90 credit hours with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0. A graduate student seeking an internship for credit must have completed at least 15 credit hours with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 or must have passed a review, if applicable.
In order to register an internship for credit, students must submit an internship application and liability waiver, available online. The internship application must show that the student will have adequate contact hours and supervision from a faculty member and must be approved by a faculty member and the department chair before being submitted to the registrar. Graduate field internships require both faculty and on-site supervision.
The approved internship application must be submitted to the registrar prior to the start of the quarter in which the internship is to be conducted. Graduate teaching internship applications should be planned one quarter in advance to allow students to attend a teaching workshop and prepare instructional materials.
Students must pay the necessary tuition and fees upon submission of the internship application in order to complete registration for the internship for credit. At the culmination of the internship, the employer, faculty member and student must submit to the registrar the appropriate evaluation form showing successful completion of the internship.
Independent Study
Students may wish to pursue independent study by designing projects that allow them to investigate a topic in depth or take advantage of particular resources. Most independent study projects involve some form of visual documentation of what is learned in addition to written observations or research.
Proposals for independent study for academic credit must be approved by a faculty member and the department chair before being submitted to the registrar. Proposals should present evidence that the project involves approximately the same amount of time and faculty supervision that a normal course would involve.
In order to complete registration of the independent study for credit, students also must pay the necessary tuition and fees. Undergraduate students must have completed at least 90 credit hours with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 to participate in an independent study; graduate students must have completed at least 15 credit hours of graduate courses with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0. An independent study may not be used as a substitute for a course currently offered.
Transient Status
SCAD students in good standing may request to attend another accredited college as a transient for a maximum of two consecutive quarters and may request that any credits earned at the other college be applied toward their program of study at SCAD. Transient status is not granted for SCAD students who are on academic warning, academic probation or who have been academically dismissed or during the final 45 hours of residency at SCAD.
To request approval for transient status during any period of the academic year, SCAD students should submit a written request to their academic program adviser, providing documentation of application to another college and allowing two weeks for processing of request and completion of letter of good standing.
Students cannot receive federal or state financial aid at SCAD while receiving federal or state financial aid at another college. Utilizing financial aid at another college may affect the student's overall aggregate debt and ability to continue to qualify for financial aid upon return to SCAD.
To transfer credit to SCAD for the course(s) taken elsewhere, students must submit an official transcript from the other college showing their final grades. Transcripts should be submitted immediately upon return to SCAD to ensure timely and proper application of transfer credit toward degree requirements. Undergraduate students must earn a minimum grade of C for a course to be transferable. Graduate students must earn a minimum grade of B for a course to be transferable. Course descriptions, projects, papers and portfolios must be submitted and evaluated as proof of equivalence to a SCAD course to receive credit. If a student does not re-enter SCAD the quarter following transient study, he or she must apply for re-admission through the admission office.
Auditing
Currently enrolled degree-seeking, non-degree-seeking or transient students who wish to enroll in a class, but do not want to receive a grade, may request through the registrar to audit the class, provided space is available in the class. This status is reflected by N on the grade report. Students must be eligible to register in the course they wish to audit. Auditing a class may have an impact on a student's scholarship or financial aid. Incoming new students who wish to enroll only as auditing students may apply through the office of admission as nondegree-seeking and then request auditing status through the registrar.
Concurrent Enrollment at Separate Institutions
Students may receive financial aid toward a degree at only one institution at a time. Any student concurrently enrolled and/or pursuing a degree at another college or university while also enrolled and/or pursuing a degree at SCAD must inform both the office of academic advising and the office of financial aid.
Academic Standing
The student is responsible at all times for knowing his or her academic standing and for fulfilling all requirements of the college by referring to published academic policies, regulations and standards and by consulting with the appropriate dean, department chair or adviser. It is the student's responsibility to ascertain and meet course requirements, prerequisite requirements, graduation requirements, appropriate course sequencing and any other requirements of the college.
Academic Advisement
Academic advisement is provided to all students to assist in the development of educational plans and career goals and to relate these goals to academic offerings at SCAD. Undergraduate students are assigned a professional staff academic adviser upon enrollment. When undergraduate students declare a major, they also are assigned a faculty adviser from their major department. Graduate students are assigned a faculty adviser and professional staff academic adviser at orientation. Together, academic advisers and faculty advisers provide advisement in course selection and professional development on a regular basis and help guide students toward fulfillment of requirements for certificate or degree programs. SCAD-eLearning services staff members also provide assistance and serve as liaisons for online students.
The role of faculty members is invaluable in the student advisement process. Faculty members are recognized as the experts in their departmental curriculum, providing professional contacts to the discipline. Students are encouraged to discuss their program of study, course content and career development quarterly with their faculty adviser.
Professional Staff Academic Advisers for Undergraduate Students
Professional staff academic advisers assist first-year undergraduate students by providing a thorough understanding of the curriculum. First-year students are encouraged to explore a variety of major and minor options while completing the required foundation studies and general education courses.
First-year and undeclared students must have contact with their professional staff academic advisers quarterly in order to register for classes. Emphasis is placed on providing advisement and direction toward completion of the foundation studies program within the second year of study and selection of general education classes that meet the career goals of the student and the requirements of the program.
Academic advisers may assist upper-level undergraduate students with academic issues, program of study requirements, curriculum planning and completion checks prior to graduation. These students have an annual review with their academic adviser to ensure they are on schedule for graduation.
Professional Staff Academic Advisers for Transfer Students
Undergraduate students who have attended another college or university and earned credit prior to enrolling at the Savannah College of Art and Design are considered transfer students. Upon acceptance, transfer students work with transfer evaluators in the admission department to determine how earned college credit may apply toward degree requirements at SCAD and to register for first-quarter classes. Transfer students are assigned a professional staff academic adviser and a faculty adviser appropriate to their chosen major. They are required to discuss their program of study with their academic adviser their first quarter of enrollment and once a year thereafter. Transfer students also should discuss academic progress with their faculty adviser on a quarterly basis.
Professional Staff Academic Advisers for Graduate Students
Graduate students are offered a variety of advising support services beginning with orientation and continuing throughout the course of study. Professional staff academic advisers augment the graduate student's primary advising relationship with the faculty adviser, department chair and/or graduate faculty. Graduate academic advisers register students for their first quarter of enrollment based on departmental recommendations relative to scheduled course offerings. Graduate academic advisers may address academic issues including program of study requirements, academic standing, tutoring, intended date of graduation, program completion limit, change of major, degree, campus or catalog year and much more.
Professional Staff Advisers for ESL Students
Students who must fulfill English as a Second Language requirements are assigned an ESL staff adviser, faculty adviser and professional staff academic adviser. ESL students meet quarterly with the ESL staff adviser until completion of ESL Level IV requirements; thereafter, students are required to meet only with academic advisers and faculty advisers.
Quarter System
Undergraduate and graduate courses are taught on the quarter system, with each course carrying five hours of college credit. Students should expect to spend at least as much time working on assignments outside of class as they do in class. Students enrolled in SCAD-eLearning courses should expect to devote as much time to managing course content and completing assignments as they do participating in the digital classroom. The academic year includes four quarters and students may enroll in the summer quarter; however, course offerings may be limited in the summer.
Grading System
Grades are assigned according to the following system of evaluation:
| Undergraduate |
Graduate |
| A |
4 |
A |
4 |
| B |
3 |
B |
3 |
| C |
2 |
C |
2 |
| D |
1 |
D |
1 |
| F |
0 |
F |
0 |
Undergraduate architecture students are required to earn a grade of C or higher in their design studios in order to progress in their program of study. Pretest and post-test scores are recorded for all required undergraduate courses. These scores are used to assess course content and objectives, but are not calculated into the student's grade point average.
Graduate students receive no credit toward required preliminary courses with a grade of C or below. Graduate students receive no credit for a grade of D or below in any course.
Course Load
The office of the registrar is the official designated authority determining full-time status for all students requesting enrollment verifications for insurance or any type of financial aid or loans. A full-time student is defined as one who is registered for 15 quarter hours of credit per quarter. Students may register for a maximum of 20 quarter hours, provided they have maintained a grade point average of at least 3.0 during the previous quarter. Full-time students are encouraged to integrate studio courses carefully with general education and major requirements. Full-time architecture students also must follow the architecture department approved sequence of courses. All students should familiarize themselves with course prerequisites. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all prerequisites have been met. Students should consult professional staff advisers and/or faculty advisers for proper course sequencing and are encouraged to follow the suggested program sequence.
International Student Online Coursework
International students attending a campus within the United States must follow the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services rules pertaining to online courses, extending their stay, changing degree programs and transferring to another school. The rules, which are outlined on page two of the I-20 visa, include the following regarding registration in online coursework: Registration in an online course is allowed, but 50 percent or more of classes taken in a quarter must be in a classroom (not online). Typically, this means international students could take only one online course out of a total of three courses. For more information, international students should contact the SCAD office of international student services.
Dropping and Adding Courses
Students may change their course schedules only during the drop/add period at the beginning of each quarter. Schedule changes are not made after the conclusion of the drop/add period. The first five business days of every standard quarter are designated drop/add period. The five-week summer quarter has a drop/add period of two days. Due to customized content, registration in an internship, independent study or thesis must be completed prior to drop/add periods. Continuing students adding classes during this period are subject to a late registration charge if they have not registered prior to the drop/add period. Students are not allowed to participate in classes for which they are not registered. Official enrollment is determined by the class roster. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are enrolled for each class in which they are participating.
Withdrawal
All withdrawals are processed through the office of the registrar. Withdrawal forms are available online and also may be obtained from the office of the registrar. Students who withdraw from a class after the end of the drop/add period and through the last day of the quarter receive no credit for the class and a grade of W for the course. Students who stop participating in a class without officially withdrawing through the office of the registrar are considered in violation of the college attendance policy and receive a grade of F.
Undergraduate students who are accepted provisionally may be required to maintain full-time status (three classes/15 hours of credit) during the first quarter of enrollment. In such cases, failure to maintain full-time status by withdrawing from class results in academic dismissal at the end of the quarter.
Withdrawal from one or more classes also may alter financial aid status or eligibility. Students should consult with a financial aid counselor for details. (See refund policies under financial information section.)
Withdrawal from a course is effective immediately upon receipt of the request by the registrar's office. Withdrawals are final and students may not return to a class from which they have withdrawn.
Students withdrawing from the college must complete course withdrawal forms in an exit interview with the office of academic advising, officially drop any courses for which they may be pre-registered in the subsequent quarter, return their student identification card and, if residing in college housing, return all room keys to the dean of students.
Retaking a Course
Students may retake a course by registering and paying tuition for that course again. While all grades remain on the transcript, the student only receives credit once for the course and only the most recent grade is calculated into the cumulative grade point average.
Temporary Grade of Incomplete
A student who has suffered serious personal illness or critical, emergency circumstances during the academic term, resulting in failure to complete all assignments by the end of the quarter may request a grade of incomplete through the appropriate school dean before the end of the quarter. Students with a serious illness or emergency also should contact the dean of students as soon as possible.
To request a temporary grade of incomplete, the student must submit an application explaining the reason and attach documentary evidence of the illness or emergency circumstance. A grade of incomplete automatically changes to an F if the required work is not completed satisfactorily by mid-term of the following quarter or at an earlier prescribed date.
A student who misses more than 20 percent (four) of the class sessions in a quarter is not eligible for a grade of incomplete, but may withdraw through the office of the registrar at any time after the end of the drop/add period and through the last day of the quarter.
Undergraduate Graduation Requirements
Undergraduate degrees are awarded to students who have earned a minimum of 180 quarter hours of appropriate credit in an approved program of study with an overall cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher, as well as a 3.0 or higher in their major or concentration. Students pursuing a minor must earn a grade point average of 2.0 or higher in their minor program. The final 45 hours of any degree program must be completed through SCAD. This may include coursework through any SCAD campus, SCAD-eLearning or through any SCAD off-campus program.
Undergraduate students must complete the application for graduation at least two quarters before they complete their degree requirements. The application may be obtained from the office of the registrar or from the student's professional staff academic adviser. The student must submit the form to the office of the registrar for processing. Students who plan to participate in the graduation ceremony must complete all degree requirements no later than the summer quarter following the ceremony.
At graduation, undergraduate students may be awarded academic honors based on their cumulative grade point average their last quarter before commencement. Since commencement is scheduled before final grades are submitted, the cumulative grade point averages of students who complete their graduation requirements spring quarter are based on their average the previous quarter. Students who have a cumulative grade point average below honor prior to commencement, but earn the required average after grades are calculated, have the honor indicated on their diploma.
Honors are awarded as follows:
Cum Laude 3.5 to 3.69 GPA
Magna Cum Laude 3.7 to 3.89 GPA
Summa Cum Laude 3.9 to 4.0 GPA
Graduate Candidacy and Graduation Requirements
At the approximate midpoint of each graduate student's course of study, the student must pass a review for candidacy. The student must have met all requirements for the program up to that point, and must have completed any required conditional courses with a grade of B or higher and maintained a grade point average of at least 3.0 in the major course of study. In this review, faculty assess the student's complete body of work, as well as the student's readiness to continue in the program and succeed in the field upon graduation.
The review determines the student's qualifications for candidacy according to the discipline and degree program, assessing evidence of knowledge of historical methodology, logical thought and original ideas, as well as aesthetic considerations. Candidates should demonstrate strong fundamental art and design skills, performance skills, teaching skills, technical proficiency, and/or strong academic and research proficiency required of the discipline and degree program.
Academic performance, as demonstrated by individual course grades, also serves as an indication of a student's readiness to continue. Students who experience academic difficulty must consult with their department chair. Students who fail the review, may request in writing through the department chair to retake the review. Any student who fails a review twice is not allowed to progress in the program.
The final 45 hours of any degree program must be completed through SCAD. This may include coursework through any SCAD campus, SCAD-eLearning or through any SCAD off-campus program.
In order to graduate, students are required to fulfill all requirements of the program of study, and maintain a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average overall as well as a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average in the major area of study. Specific completion requirements may vary according to the degree program and may require a thesis, student teaching, final project or portfolio appropriate to the course of study. Final projects and portfolio courses include a written component. In addition, M.A. candidates in art history and M.F.A. and M.A. candidates in architectural history are required to pass a written, comprehensive examination and a foreign language reading/translation/comprehension examination.
Master of Arts in Teaching students are required to complete a student teaching assignment. Master of Arts, Master of Fine Arts, postprofessional Master of Architecture, professional Master of Architecture, and Master of Urban Design students are required to complete a thesis or prepare a final exhibition, project or portfolio accompanied by a written component. The subject and nature of thesis projects vary among departments. Each candidate works closely with a primary faculty adviser in developing and completing the project.
The M.A. degree is awarded to students who have completed at least 45 graduate quarter hours in an M.A. program of study. The M.F.A. degree is awarded to students who have earned at least 90 graduate quarter hours in an M.F.A. program of study. The M.A.T. degree is awarded to students who have earned at least 60 graduate quarter hours in an M.A.T. program of study.
The M.Arch. professional degree is awarded to students who have completed at least 225 quarter hours in the professional M.Arch. program of study, which includes 180 undergraduate quarter hours and 45 graduate quarter hours. The M.Arch. postprofessional degree is awarded to students who have completed at least 45 graduate quarter hours in the postprofessional M.Arch. program of study. The M.U.D. is awarded to students who have completed at least 90 graduate quarter hours in an M.U.D. program of study.
Graduate students must submit the application for graduation at least two quarters before completing degree requirements. The application may be obtained online or from the student's graduate academic adviser and must be submitted to the adviser for processing. Students who plan to participate in the graduation ceremony must complete all degree requirements no later than the summer quarter following the ceremony.
Certificate Completion Requirements
To earn an undergraduate certificate, students must complete all courses required for the certificate, maintaining at least a 2.0 grade point average in those courses. To earn a graduate certificate, students must complete all courses required for the certificate, maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average in those courses.
Graduate Student Continuous Enrollment
Graduate students must maintain continuous enrollment until completion of all degree requirements, including final project, thesis or student teaching. Continuous enrollment is defined as registering for a minimum of one course toward the satisfaction of degree requirements in at least two terms per academic year until the degree is attained or until the student withdraws by written notification to the office of the registrar.
Students who have not completed their final project, thesis or student teaching by the end of the quarter receive a grade of incomplete. Students who have completed all other requirements for the degree except final project, thesis or student teaching must then register for Thesis 799 Continuing Thesis. Once a student is eligible to enroll in Thesis 799, he or she must register for the class each quarter (up to the five-year degree completion limit) until all degree requirements are met. Students enrolled in Thesis 799 maintain their official student ID card, and all rights and privileges afforded enrolled students, such as access to facilities and use of equipment and library resources.
Five-year Completion Limit
Graduate students have five years from the start of their first graduate quarter to complete all program requirements, including final project, thesis and student teaching. If, for any reason, the student does not complete the program within the five-year period, the student must petition an academic review committee for additional time and to request continuation under a current program of study. The review committee determines if additional time should be granted. The committee reserves the right to require the student to take additional graduate classes to meet current graduate program requirements.
Continued Enrollment After Degree Completion
Students who wish to continue to take classes after completion of degree requirements must apply through the admission office as nondegree-seeking or to be admitted to a new degree program. Otherwise, classes may be automatically dropped by the registrar. Financial aid and scholarship awards may be affected by continued enrollment to complete a degree, double major or minor. All students receiving federal financial aid should check with the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 800.433.3242 or visit fafsa.ed.gov to determine continued financial aid eligibility.
Attendance and Personal Conduct
Only students who are properly registered for a course may participate in that class. Students are expected to participate in all scheduled classes and examination periods on time. Absences in excess of four per quarter, or 20 percent of the course, result in a failing grade for the course. Tardiness, early departure or other time away from class in excess of 15 minutes is considered absence for the class period. The student's appearance and conduct should be appropriate and should contribute to the academic and professional atmosphere of the college.
While course registrations adhere to the normal SCAD calendar of four 10-week quarters, SCAD-eLearning classes are not held at set times. However, students are expected to log in each week and complete coursework according to a schedule that stipulates due dates and asynchronous online sessions for students and professors to meet, assess and critique work or expand upon discussion board postings. Students in SCAD-eLearning courses are expected to participate in all assignments, examinations and field trips or other special activities as directed by the professor. Attendance is determined by active login time and participation in required activities.
The college reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw the privilege of enrollment from any student whose conduct is detrimental to the academic environment or to the well-being of other students, faculty or staff members, or to the college facilities.
Academic Integrity
Under all circumstances, students are expected to be honest in their dealings with faculty, administrative staff and fellow students. For purposes of this policy, the term faculty or faculty member includes any person engaged by the college to act in a teaching capacity, regardless of the person's actual title. In speaking with members of the SCAD community, students must give an accurate representation of the facts at hand. Failure to do so is considered a breach of the Student Code of Conduct and may result in sanctions against the student, including suspension or dismissal. In class assignments, students must submit work that fairly and accurately reflects their level of accomplishment. Any work that is not a product of the student's own efforts is considered dishonest. Students must not engage in academic dishonesty; doing so can have serious consequences. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1.
|
Cheating, which includes, but is not limited to, (a) the use of any unauthorized assistance in producing assignments or taking quizzes, tests or examinations; (b) dependence on the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems or carrying out other assignments; (c) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the college faculty or staff; or (d) the use of unauthorized assistance in the preparation of works of art. |
| 2. |
Plagiarism, which includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgment. Plagiarism also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials. |
| 3. |
Submission of the same work in two or more classes without prior written approval of the professors of the classes involved. |
| 4. |
Submission of any work not actually produced by the student submitting the work without full and clear written acknowledgement of the actual author or creator of the work. |
If a faculty member suspects a student of academic dishonesty, the following procedures must be followed:
| 1. |
If the student is currently enrolled in the faculty member's class, the faculty member should discuss the concern with the student involved and ascertain all relevant information. If, after this discussion, the faculty member believes that academic dishonesty has occurred, the faculty member must notify the chief academic officer for SCAD-Savannah, SCAD-eLearning and off-campus program students, or the assistant vice president for SCAD-Atlanta for SCAD-Atlanta students. The notice must be in writing and must provide all relevant information the faculty member has gathered.
If the faculty member discovers the academic dishonesty after the conclusion of the academic term in which the act took place, the faculty member must notify the CAO or assistant vice president in writing that he or she believes academic dishonesty has occurred and provide all relevant information the faculty member has gathered. |
| 2. |
A designee from the office of the CAO or assistant vice president conducts an investigation to determine whether it is more likely than not that academic dishonesty has occurred. During the investigation, the investigator may meet with the professor and student involved and with other persons who may have pertinent information, such as other students, the department chair and the appropriate dean. The investigator determines the order and process of the investigation, such as whether to interview persons singly or together. |
| 3. |
If, as a result of the investigation, it is determined that academic dishonesty has occurred, the student is so informed by the investigator in a written charging letter. The student also is informed in writing what sanctions are to be imposed. In every case in which a student has been found to have engaged in academic dishonesty, the sanction includes the impositio | |
Academic Policies