Savannah College vs Art Center College of Design

When it comes to art and design education, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and Art Center College of Design (ACCD) stand out as two of the most prestigious institutions in the United States. Both offer a wide range of programs, from traditional fine arts to cutting-edge digital media, but there are some key differences between the two schools. SCAD has a larger student body and a higher acceptance rate, while ACCD is known for its rigorous curriculum and strong industry connections. With SCAD's diverse student body and ACCD's focus on career preparation, prospective students should carefully consider their individual needs and aspirations before making a decision. Explore our comprehensive comparison table to discover more about these two exceptional art and design schools and find the best fit for your unique educational journey.
Art Center College of Design logo

Art Center College of Design

Savannah College of Art and Design logo

Savannah College of Art and Design

Overview

Location Pasadena, California Savannah, Georgia
Campus setting City: Midsize City: Midsize
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Semester Quarter
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 85.0% 81.0%
Common app member No Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 75.6% 80.8%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
Undergraduate: $100

Graduate: $100
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants 982 14,914
Total number of admissions given out 742 12,047
Admitted students who chose to enroll 269 2,685
Yield rate 36.3% 22.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Not required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $72,066 $57,206
Average net price $50,420 $45,163
Tuition $47,334 $38,340
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $10,752

Meal plan: $4,596
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

64.0%
Average amount $17,667
97.0%
Average amount $12,662
Students receiving federal student loan 39.0%
Average amount $5,367
44.0%
Average amount $5,046
Students taking out private loans 2.0%
Average amount $38,675
11.0%
Average amount $28,403

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 2,028
Men 41.7% Women 58.3%
12,772
Men 30.8% Women 69.2%
Graduate students 291
Men 42.6% Women 57.4%
2,864
Men 29.4% Women 70.6%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Low
Out-of-state students N/A 79.7%
International students 45.4% 24.4%
Campus local/setting City: Midsize City: Midsize
Dormitory capacity N/A 5,813
First year students are required to live on campus? N/A No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from N/A Georgia Florida Texas New Jersey New York

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Engineering Technologies
  • Communications Technology
  • Architecture
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Family and Consumer Sciences
  • Architecture
  • Multidisciplinary Studies
  • Communications Technology
Students to faculty ratio 8:1 20:1
Institutional accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 75.9% 71.5%
Dropout rate 9.8% 13.2%
Transferred out 8.6% 14.5%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Design and Applied Arts (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $40,017
  • Year 2: $50,856
  • Year 3: $57,513
Fine and Studio Arts (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $24,536
  • Year 2: $20,140
  • Year 3: $27,282
Architectural Sciences and Technology (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,380
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Graphic Communications (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,126
  • Year 2: $38,289
  • Year 3: N/A
Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,973
  • Year 2: $81,702
  • Year 3: N/A
Engineering-Related Fields (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,061
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Film/Video and Photographic Arts (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $21,685
  • Year 2: $20,824
  • Year 3: N/A
Film/Video and Photographic Arts (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $11,851
  • Year 3: N/A
Fine and Studio Arts (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $17,249
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,213
  • Year 2: $75,518
  • Year 3: $89,877
Radio, Television, and Digital Communication (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,772
  • Year 2: $56,544
  • Year 3: $60,070
Architectural Sciences and Technology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,166
  • Year 2: $53,894
  • Year 3: $58,292
Apparel and Textiles (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $30,532
  • Year 2: $46,087
  • Year 3: $50,094
Radio, Television, and Digital Communication (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,934
  • Year 2: $44,817
  • Year 3: $50,056
Historic Preservation and Conservation (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,327
  • Year 2: $44,468
  • Year 3: $48,513
Architectural Sciences and Technology (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,117
  • Year 2: $39,369
  • Year 3: $48,074
Design and Applied Arts (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,941
  • Year 2: $44,858
  • Year 3: $46,479
Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $28,603
  • Year 2: $38,721
  • Year 3: $44,614
Apparel and Textiles (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $28,839
  • Year 2: $33,993
  • Year 3: $44,342

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary differences in location between SCAD and ArtCenter?

    SCAD has a global presence with campuses in Savannah, Atlanta, and Lacoste, France, offering students diverse environments. ArtCenter is located in Pasadena, California, providing a strong connection to the Los Angeles design and entertainment industries.

  • How do the academic programs at SCAD and ArtCenter compare?

    SCAD offers a broader range of programs, including architecture, design, and liberal arts, with a focus on practical application. ArtCenter is more specialized, concentrating on design disciplines with a strong emphasis on industry-relevant skills and a project-based curriculum.

  • Which school is better for someone interested in animation or visual effects?

    Both schools have strong programs. SCAD has a well-established animation program with extensive resources and industry connections. ArtCenter's entertainment design programs are highly regarded, providing excellent preparation for visual effects and concept art roles.

  • What is the typical student body like at SCAD versus ArtCenter?

    SCAD has a larger and more diverse student body, attracting students from around the world. ArtCenter has a smaller, more selective student body, often composed of highly driven individuals with a strong portfolio focus.

  • How does the cost of attendance compare between SCAD and ArtCenter?

    Tuition and fees at both institutions are relatively high. However, the specific costs can vary depending on the program and location. It's recommended to check the official websites for the most up-to-date financial information and explore scholarship opportunities.

  • What are the career services and industry connections like at each school?

    Both schools have robust career services. SCAD boasts extensive industry connections and hosts numerous events, including career fairs and guest lectures. ArtCenter has strong ties to the entertainment and design industries in Los Angeles, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and internships.

  • Which school is better for someone who wants a more traditional college experience?

    SCAD, with its larger campuses and broader range of programs, may offer a more traditional college experience, including a wider variety of extracurricular activities and social events. ArtCenter's focus is more intensely on studio work and professional development.

  • How do the facilities and resources compare at SCAD and ArtCenter?

    Both schools invest heavily in their facilities. SCAD provides state-of-the-art equipment and studios across its multiple campuses. ArtCenter offers cutting-edge facilities, including advanced labs and studios, designed to support its project-based curriculum.

  • What is the application process like for SCAD and ArtCenter?

    Both schools require a portfolio submission as a key component of the application. SCAD's application process is generally considered less selective than ArtCenter's, which has a highly competitive admissions process. Both schools require transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation.

  • Which school is better for someone who is unsure of their specific area of design interest?

    SCAD, with its wider range of programs and more flexible curriculum, might be a better choice for students still exploring their interests. ArtCenter's more specialized programs require a clearer focus from the outset.

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