<p>how's scad's reputation in general? and also, what's scad known for? u know.. like what major is good there. how is SCAD viewed in the working world? do the alumni get good jobs etc? anything about SCAD in general would be appreciated. thanks</p>
<p>From a relatively objective person (did not go to SCAD, have not worked at SCAD, am applying currently), the reactions I've gotten about applying there have been mixed. Some people say that it's a wonderful place and that it's a great choice, good luck, etc. Other people say to run far away. It's hard to know who to listen to, so I decided to take the chance and apply, and if they make it worth my while I'll take a visit and try to figure it out for myself. </p>
<p>Those who've advocated for or against SCAD all seem very, very convinced of their own view. So reputation-wise, I'd say it's a real mixed bag, depends on what company you're in.</p>
<p>I agree with larationalist. It truly is a very mixed bag. I am from the Atlanta area and so my son naturally looked into SCAD. We heard enough negative information from former students and people in the area, that he decided not to apply. While most agreed that the student work coming out of SCAD was competitive, many had complaints about the school experience and both my sons know students who were very unhappy there.</p>
<p>unhappy former students? now that's not good... can you be specific? unhappy because of what? and also, what are the arguments of both the people who like SCAD and those who don't?</p>
<p>What is SCAD known for? like what major is good there, what's bad about it, etc.</p>
<p>"what are the arguments of both the people who like SCAD and those who don't?"</p>
<p>The arguements against: It's not NASAD accredited. The crime rate in Savannah is scary. Admissions are too lax (don't require portfolio for undergrad), so therefor the students there suck, or those few that don't suck will be stuck in classes that are dumbed down for those who do suck.</p>
<p>The arguements for: Nobody has shown us that NASAD accreditation means jack squat. The crime rate is not any worse than that in the urban areas in which most good schools are located (Pratt in NY, Art Center in LA, MICA in Baltimore[!]). The classes are not dumbed down- it's more of a sink or swim approach. If you're the type to push yourself, it doesn't matter if you're surrounded by people less talented than you. Also, if you're that talented, you can submit a portfolio to try and get a scholarship. The facilities in Savannah are unparralleled by any other school, and the city is beautiful.</p>
<p>Obviously, some of these arguements directly contradict each other, or seek to show that the other side's arguement is unimportant. It's up to each individual to decide which side to listen to and what they value in a school.</p>
<p>oh, as for what it's known for- digital media, animation, not sure what else.</p>
<p>What I probably wouldn't go there for: architecture, unless you already know that historic preservation's your thing.</p>
<p>We have a pretty damn good Industrial Design department, too :) </p>
<p>[disclosure: I teach ID there]</p>
<p>larationalist, you mentioned that you wouldn't go there for arch. why is that?</p>
<p>As an architecture grad myself, I strongly believe that it is important to be able to see good contemporary architecture firsthand, and also to have internship opportunities with good firms. So being in a small town full of period architecture, with very little industry to speak of, does not seem condusive to architectural study (in my opinion). </p>
<p>Additionally, they are one of the only schools I have ever seen with their degree structure- BFA Arch in four years, M.Arch in one more year. There are enough different degree programs in architecture (BS Arch, BA Arch, M.Arch I, M.Arch II, B Env.D, etc.) that are well known without going and getting a completely random combination like that. 5 years of architecture typically gets you a B.Arch with 10 semesters (5 solid years) of studio: 5 years at SCAD gets you an M.Arch I with only 9 quarters (only 3 years) of studio. It's a qualification which is inflated beyond the actual knowledge that can be gained through the curriculum. This post is not intended to trash SCAD as a school, merely to explain why I would not consider going there for the study of architecture.</p>
<p>My daughter just received word that she has been accepted at SCAD for Art and offered a $15,000 academic scholarship (her SATs & grades are strong). She has gotten 2 other acceptances and we are waiting on the fourth. Going to visit SCAD in a few days but it probably won't be her first choice.</p>
<p>Congratulations to your daughter! Mine should be in a similar position next year (fingers crossed). Do come back and tell us your impressions of SCAD after your visit.</p>
<p>as for the argument against SCAD arch, I feel skeptical about how you mentioned it takes only 5 years to earn a Master degree there. I'm not sure how that works... if in other schools it takes a longer time to earn it. But for the environment, I think SCAD has the advantage, don't you think? I mean, contemporary buildings are seen everywhere (they're just big towers, office buildings, etc, right?) whereas Savannah has a lot of traditional structures with aesthetic values and stuff. so, don't you think in that way SCAD actually has the upper hand?</p>
<p>That timeline is indeed part of why I am skeptical regarding the quality of the program.</p>
<p>I'd have to disagree with your take on the contemporary vs. historic buildings debate though. Just because something is old does not make it good, and most architects do not build in historic styles, so unless you want to preserve them, it's not the most inspiring environment. I fear it would leave you still believing that contemporary buildings have no value and are "just big towers". Actually I would even say that going to school somewhere that had a variety of architectural influences would be best, but I would choose a contemporary up-and-coming city over one stuck in its past any day. (please remember, these comments apply to architectural study. other fields of study do not neccesitate such concerns except as they relate to your own comfort)</p>
<p>I went to SCAD from 2003-2004 and my experience there was terrible. The administration is unspeakably incompetent, you must bend over backwards to get things done for yourself there. As for the education, I had some good foundations professors, but the rest were arrogant and unapproachable. If you are looking for a well rounded art education look elsewhere. Although SCAD is known for its cutting edge job oriented majors, it truly is lacking in its "university" appeal. I can't stress enough in how important it is to get a well rounded education. SCAD does not provide this. There are not enough liberal arts requirements and the number of art histories required are minimal, around 5 for the entire four YEARS, I believe. Savannah is an extremely dangerous city. A student was raped outside of some of the dorms (which are on the edge of ghettos) a few years ago. And because it was considered to be off dorm property, the school was not held responsible. Savannah was considered to have highest crime rate per capita in the entire U.S. in the early nineties. Gang violence was very rampant. Although much of that has been calmed down the city is still very dangerous and it isn't a good idea to go out without a group of friends. Many of the SCAD buildings border along ghettos. The student body is very clicky and most students are unapproachable. There are so many other things that I could write, but I just don't have the time. If you apply, you will most definitely be accepted, SCAD will accept anyone who has a check ready, no kidding. If you are dead set on going to SCAD, go for it. But make that decision after doing some research on the history of the school, which is very shady (there was a student revolt in 1991, and a fraudulent degree fiasco not but a few years ago) - and the current state of the school. I would strongly recommend getting a good liberal arts education before investing into a school like SCAD. SCAD is more like a 4 year trade school, you will be cheated in regards to intellectual development. You'll come out with a one track mind. Just my two cents. Good luck.</p>
<p>Wow, I hope some others familiar with SCAD will respond to this. It is one of 2 schools my daughter is considering and we visited last week and were very impressed. So this upsets me.</p>
<p>Something like 5000 to 7000 kids a year attend the college. Taking the word of one individual is probably not a good idea. Maybe soleseek is one of many who are dismissed after one year because he/she failed to maintain an appropriate GPA? Apparently the student failed to get past year-one - based upon the comment on "foundations" profs. </p>
<p>a. Arrogant and unapproachable? I never had that experience except for 1 prof during my education. How many profs did this student actually "approach" in one year? What kind of attitude did the student display in general? Generally I would say that if you are a sincere student who puts forth committed effort, you will always be treated with respect. During my experience as a student, I wrote letters to the President of the College on two occasions, and in both cases she responded to my requests immediately.</p>
<p>b. What is "university" appeal? It is a city campus. It has buildings scattered throughout the city. Students can walk or ride bikes, or take the school bus system. It does not have a self-contained campus. If that is what you are looking for, then do not go there. </p>
<p>c. Liberal arts? You can look at the curriculum and decide for yourself if there are enough courses. Also, students can use free electives to take extra liberal arts classes including art history classes.</p>
<p>d. Savannah is not a "safe" city. All cities have crime, so what city is safe? Some student housing is on the fringes of ghetto areas. Yes a student was raped off campus in the city. and this would be a matter for the Savannah Police. The student went to a location known to be dangerous. The college takes great precautions to protect students. My advice is to use common sense during the evening hours. I have lived in the area for more than 12 years and have never been victimized by any crime. </p>
<p>Visit this page: <a href="http://www.scad.edu/about/security/index.cfm%5B/url%5D">http://www.scad.edu/about/security/index.cfm</a> and you can even call the Director of Security. The number is listed. </p>
<p>e. During my experience as a student and staff member I have never met a less-cliquish and more relaxed and friendly body of students. Maybe this student lacked social skills. The school does provide significant support for the students; perhaps the student should have taken advantage of it.</p>
<p>f. 1991 was a long time ago. The school did experience serious growing pains at that time. The college grew at a phenomenal rate and had trouble keeping up with itself I would guess. I entered the college shortly after, and it was irrelevant at that time already. It's done, it's over, it's in the past, and it has no effect on the present as far as I could tell.</p>
<p>g. The "fraudulent degree" was documented online by an "irate" professor whose prof. wife was dismissed for a serious offense - a fact he always hid. I don't know exactly what happened, but he was obviously looking for some kind of revenge in his accusations. This is my opinion.</p>
<p>h. I too recommend going to a liberal arts college to take liberal arts classes especially at a state college where the cost of English 101 is cheaper. Why pay more for an English class at an art college? Makes no sense to me, but work with a SCAD admissions rep to be certain the college courses will transfer in appropriately.</p>
<p>i. Contact an admissions rep at the college or visit the school. Ask to speak to a faculty member; do more than rely on the opinion of the other poster or even myself.</p>
<p>Honeypi, please post the details of your trip. Love to hear about it!</p>
<p>soleseek, if you do manage to find some time, it would be interesting to read about the "other things" you could write.</p>
<p>Thanks. I am not relying on one poster's opinion. We visited SCAD and talked to many people and plan on talking to more before we make the final decision. Thanks for your post.
Moominmama, I will try and post about our visit to Savannah within the next few days.</p>
<p>hmm it upsets me to read soleseek's post. i know it's one person's perspective but i take it as a view of someone who has experienced SCAD personally. Is it true that they basically accept anyone? Back to the original question, what's SCAD's reputation in general? How is SCAD viewed in the business world? (by companies, hiring ppl, etc)</p>
<p>//Is it true that they basically accept anyone?//</p>
<p>It is not true.</p>