SAIC is a school I’ve been thinking about for a second and their deadline is rolling up on my tail, but money is getting very tight with my family right now. I’d have to pay for their application and to send my SAT/AP scores to SAIC along with others I’m applying to (SCAD, RISD, MICA, possible Pratt, possible Art Institute), so I’m wondering if this school is good. I like they idea of it, and it seems to be decently known/ranked, my issue with SAIC is their system. They don’t give grades, and barely have degrees. They like to let students pick their own majors, so if you want to take a class in ceramics and then another in impasto painting, then you’re all okay to do that. It lets you experience more of what you want and sounds good in theory, but I’m wondering if anyone knows how employers feel about this. The other art schools on my list seem safer just because more people know about them and they’re a bit more basic in their teaching approaches. I don’t want to miss out on scholarship opportunities that SAIC could offer me, though (if I end up getting the best money from them, obviously I’d like to go there) so what do you y’all think?
TL;DR VERSION: SAIC’s degree program is set up oddly. Will employers like that?
SAIC is a great program but it does have a distinct style and philosophy. Rather than worry about whether it’s a “safe” or “risky” choice you should be looking at whether it’s a good fit for you. The best art college for you is the one you see yourself thriving at (and can afford of course ). Some love the very interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum because it allows exploration into lots of different areas. Others prefer a more structured curriculum. It’s about what you want. Most of the kids who attend do opt for a traditional “major-specific” track from what I’ve heard so that option is always available!
I definitely wouldn’t worry about quality of training or rigor of program because both are supposed to be top-notch. Grades aren’t really that important - the critique process IS (and is very tough at SAIC I’ve heard) and, of course, your portfolio is the most important of all. I do understand that SAIC will provide grades to any grad school program that requests them, so again, not to worry.
@mssunnymuffins I agree with @JBStillFlying that you have to consider if SAIC fits your style. I’ve heard good things about the program and I would imagine the alumni network is extensive (especially if you are planning on working in the Windy City post graduation) but would you be happy with 4 years of the interdisciplinary style? Or do you feel you want to focus on one track or major?
You mention the application fee is what’s keeping you from applying. Perhaps call the admissions office and express that; they may wave it. University of the Arts waived the app fee several times so my D applied (she ultimately decided on Tyler at Temple) but several other schools also offered to waive it. It can’t hurt to ask.
Many of the schools your considering offer merit aid, so if your grades are good, you will likely get scholarship money from many of the private schools.
). Some love the very interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum because it allows exploration into lots of different areas. Others prefer a more structured curriculum. It’s about what you want. Most of the kids who attend do opt for a traditional “major-specific” track from what I’ve heard so that option is always available!