SCAD Rising Star Savannah course descriptions 2025
Credentialed SCAD faculty members teach all SCAD Rising Star courses. Each studio course is capped at 20 students and each lecture course is capped at 30 students to ensure a personalized learning environment.
Upon successful completion of their courses, students gain credits toward a SCAD degree or may transfer credits to another complying institution. The course offerings below are subject to change
8 a.m. (ET) course offerings
ACCE 110: Sewing Technology for Accessory Design
This course introduces students to the industry practices involved in producing accessories. Students also are introduced to decorative ornamentation techniques while applying these techniques to accessory design. Basic patternmaking skills are taught and provide the foundation for future courses in accessory design.
Applicable majors: accessory design or elective credit
ACT 199: Acting for the Camera: Fundamentals
In this introductory course, students learn the terminology for on‐camera acting and practice the precise and subtle techniques for film and television performance. They analyze characters and scene structure to create believable characters within a specific dramatic or comedic context. Through exposure to a variety of genres, students gain confidence in modulating performance styles for the camera.
Applicable majors: performing arts, dramatic writing, or elective credit
ANIM 190: Survey of Animation: Professional Pathways
Unlocking the pathways of animation, students begin their journeys toward a professional career. Immersed in the animation process, students gain an overview of both 2D and 3D production workflows, resulting in the creation of their first film.
Due to the intensity of this course, prior approval is required to enroll. Students should submit a portfolio of five to 10 works that show a technical understanding of the basic art and design principles such as line weight, balance, perspective, and depth. Portfolios should be submitted to SAVsummer@scad.edu (Savannah) or ATLsummer@scad.edu (Atlanta).
Applicable majors: animation or elective credit
ARCH 101: Introduction to Architecture
This course introduces students to the theories and profession of architecture and encourages creative and analytical thought. By considering the entire scope of the discipline and the profession, the course focuses on developing an ability to ask appropriate questions in relation to decision making regarding the built environment. Students explore the abstract, spatial, socio-cultural, environmental, and tectonic concepts that affect the built environment.
Applicable majors: architecture or elective credit
BUSI 110: Business I: Fundamentals
Knowledge of business fundamentals is essential for careers in creative industries. Covering topics such as business research, accounting, finance, organizational structure, human resources, intellectual property, and marketing, this course introduces students to the terminology and basic tenets of business and finance through case studies and real‐world applications.
Applicable majors: accessory design, advertising and branding, business of beauty and fragrance, equestrian studies, fashion marketing and management, furniture design, graphic design, illustration, industrial design, interactive design and game development, interior design, jewelry, motion media design, performing arts, photography, preservation design, sequential art, sculpture, service design, social strategy and management, user experience design (UX), visual effects, writing, or elective credit
COMM 105: Speaking of Ideas
Societies flourish when citizens engage in thoughtful public discourse and communication about ideas that shape the human experience. From history, religion, and identity to innovation, creative expression, and beyond, students study rhetorical concepts and exemplars to make informed contributions and enrich their skills in authentic self‐presentation.
Applicable majors: all majors
CTXT 121: Visual Culture in Context: Pre-Modern Global Perspectives
The study of human culture and experience is grounded in the investigation of creativity, continuity, and invention. Through a close examination of artifacts from across the globe within key historical moments, students build a language that allows them to describe and contextualize global visual productions by a range of cultures. Critical readings inform analytical thinking and writing as students explore significant contributions to the development of cultural expression from the Paleolithic to the late Medieval period.
Applicable majors: all majors
DRAW 100: Drawing I: Form and Space
Students learn basic skills and techniques for drawing from direct observation using subjects such as still life, landscape, and architecture. The depiction of form, light, and spatial depth is emphasized along with accurate proportion and scale. Research tools such as thumbnail sketches, quick studies, sketchbooks, and digital resources are used to develop ideas. Analysis of drawings, critiques, and classroom discussions build vocabulary and enrich the students’ understanding of drawing.
Applicable majors: all majors
DSGN 100: Design I: Elements and Organization
Students develop an understanding of the organizational methods used in 2D work. They utilize the elements and principles of design while working in black‐and‐white and color media. Problem‐solving processes and research are integrated into the development, refinement, and evaluation of images. The work of professionals in a variety of art and design fields is analyzed to understand the application of 2D design. The importance of presentation and craftsmanship is emphasized.
Applicable majors: all majors
EQST 110: Equine Care, Behavior, and Handling
Equine behavior is emphasized as it relates to the care, handling, and health of the competitive sport horse. Students experience opportunities for hands‐on practical application that are essential to the budding equestrian professional. Fundamental skills, proper use of equipment, and common preventive measures for equine ailments are introduced.
Applicable majors: equestrian studies or elective credit
Special Note: EQST 110 requires students to have barn boots, long pants, and submit a signed liability waiver.
FASH 105: Intro to Textiles
This lecture/studio course introduces students to the qualities and properties of fashion fabrics. By investigating the fibers, quality, construction, care, and finishing of textiles, students learn the basics of fabric identification and specific uses in the fashion industry. The course requires studio projects and provides demonstrations of basic methods of textile design development, weaving, printing, and dyeing.
Applicable majors: fashion or elective credit
FASM 215: Fashion Aesthetics and Style
This course introduces students to the theories of dress, aesthetic norms, color, perceptions, body concerns, personality expression, and context. Students demonstrate the ability to effectively combine design elements and principles through creative design projects.
Applicable majors: fashion marketing and management or elective credit
FIBR 102: Introduction to Fibers for Non‐majors
Fibers, an inherently interdisciplinary practice, is grounded in exploration and research of material, process, culture, tradition, sustainability, and innovation. Students are exposed to the facilities, equipment, and opportunities within the department. A broad overview of surface, structure, and color techniques and applications is explored.
Applicable majors: elective credit
FILM 100: Digital Film Production: Story to Screen
Through the collaborative stages of digital film production, students acquire the terminology, skills, and techniques to visually tell stories. As they create their first film, students take on a variety of roles, learning the fundamentals of script development and preproduction, camera, lighting and sound techniques, and editing.
Applicable majors: dramatic writing, film and television, production design, or elective credit
ILLU 100: Intro to Illustration Strategies
Professional illustrators strategically solve visual problems to engage clients and markets. While discovering strategies for effective visual communication, students explore the illustration process through creative application of distinct materials and techniques. Students conceptualize the framework of their portfolios within the context of professional expectations.
Applicable majors: illustration or elective credit
INDS 101: Introduction to Interior Design
An introduction to the profession of interior design, this course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of the interior designer and the scope of the profession. Lectures, discussions, problem‐solving, and design application allow the student to explore interior design as both a creative process and a profession.
Applicable majors: interior design or elective credit
MOME 120: Concepts and Storyboards
Creating concepts and explaining ideas, style, and technique though storyboards are essential skills for the motion media designer. In this course, students learn how to conceptualize and visualize motion graphic storyboards with digital techniques as required in the professional world.
Applicable majors: motion media design or elective credit
PHOT 113: Camera Exploration and Technique
Digital photography is a powerful communication tool central to a variety of creative careers. While experimenting with manual camera controls and digital workflow in the context of professional conventions, students explore imaginative visual communication applications and dynamic career trajectories within fine art, advertising, and editorial photography.
Applicable majors: photography or elective credit
PNTG 101: Painting Basics for the Non‐major
This course provides a foundation in the practices and materials associated with painting and prepares students to work in oil‐ and water‐based media. Working from direct observation, students develop an understanding of formal concerns as well as paint manipulation to produce strong representational paintings.
Applicable majors: elective credit
SNDS 101: Sound for Film and Television
This course introduces sound designers and filmmakers to the unique contributions that dialogue, sound effects, and music bring to film and television. Students develop an applied understanding of the workflow and practices associated with soundtrack development. This course promotes effective collaboration between audio and video professionals. Students apply their knowledge and skills in the development of a basic soundtrack for live action film or television.
Applicable majors: film and television, sound design, or elective credit
VSFX 101: Survey of Visual Effects
This course introduces students to the history and development of visual effects through lectures, readings, and screenings of important work. Students examine the various ways in which artistic and technological tools have been used to create convincing visual effects for film, television, and games. Studies focus on the variety of ways in which visual effects techniques have evolved to keep up with increasingly discerning audiences.
Applicable majors: visual effects or elective credit
2 p.m. (ET) course offerings
ACT 199: Acting for the Camera: Fundamentals
In this introductory course, students learn the terminology for on‐camera acting and practice the precise and subtle techniques for film and television performance. They analyze characters and scene structure to create believable characters within a specific dramatic or comedic context. Through exposure to a variety of genres, students gain confidence in modulating performance styles for the camera.
Applicable majors: performing arts, dramatic writing, or elective credit
ADBR 150: Introduction to Advertising: Concept to Content
Every great campaign begins with an idea that sparks the creative process. Equipped with a clear understanding of strategy, audience, and brand purpose, students leverage industry trends and begin to conceptualize these big ideas. Guided by the brand brief, students practice skills of copywriting and art direction to execute original solutions to brand problems.
Applicable majors: advertising and branding, social strategy and management, or elective credit
ANIM 190: Survey of Animation: Professional Pathways
Unlocking the pathways of animation, students begin their journeys toward a professional career. Immersed in the animation process, students gain an overview of both 2D and 3D production workflows, resulting in the creation of their first film.
Due to the intensity of this course, prior approval is required to enroll. Students should submit a portfolio of five to 10 works that show a technical understanding of the basic art and design principles such as line weight, balance, perspective, and depth. Portfolios should be submitted to SAVsummer@scad.edu (Savannah) or ATLsummer@scad.edu (Atlanta).
Applicable majors: animation, or elective credit
BEAU 210: Beauty and Fragrance Through the Ages
Used to enhance, alter, conceal, or even disguise, the application of make‐up and fragrance is one of the world's oldest social practices. From war paint and rouge to perfume and Venetian ceruse, the history of beauty and fragrance as well as the rise of this global industry are intricately tied to political, cultural, and historical contexts. In this course, students learn how cultural and historical beauty rituals and conventions continue to influence and drive contemporary business practices and social norms.
Applicable majors: business of beauty and fragrance
COMM 105: Speaking of Ideas
Societies flourish when citizens engage in thoughtful public discourse and communication about ideas that shape the human experience. From history, religion, and identity to innovation, creative expression, and beyond, students study rhetorical concepts and exemplars to make informed contributions and enrich their skills in authentic self‐presentation.
Applicable majors: all majors
CTXT 121: Visual Culture in Context: Pre-Modern Global Perspectives
The study of human culture and experience is grounded in the investigation of creativity, continuity, and invention. Through a close examination of artifacts from across the globe within key historical moments, students build a language that allows them to describe and contextualize global visual productions by a range of cultures. Critical readings inform analytical thinking and writing as students explore significant contributions to the development of cultural expression from the Paleolithic to the late Medieval period.
Applicable majors: all majors
DRAW 100: Drawing I: Form and Space
Students learn basic skills and techniques for drawing from direct observation using subjects such as still life, landscape, and architecture. The depiction of form, light, and spatial depth is emphasized along with accurate proportion and scale. Research tools such as thumbnail sketches, quick studies, sketchbooks, and digital resources are used to develop ideas. Analysis of drawings, critiques, and classroom discussions build vocabulary and enrich the students’ understanding of drawing.
Applicable majors: all majors
DSGN 100: Design I: Elements and Organization
Students develop an understanding of the organizational methods used in 2D work. They utilize the elements and principles of design while working in black‐and‐white and color media. Problem‐solving processes and research are integrated into the development, refinement, and evaluation of images. The work of professionals in a variety of art and design fields is analyzed to understand the application of 2D design. The importance of presentation and craftsmanship is emphasized.
Applicable majors: all majors
ENGL 142: Foundations of Story
Humans are storytelling animals. This course helps students answer questions about how stories work across genres and mediums – and what universal qualities all good stories share. Students read classic fairy tales, ancient epics, fiction, plays, and the writings of Aristotle and Joseph Campbell, and apply classical narrative conventions to produce an original "myth" of their own making.
Applicable majors: animation, dramatic writing, film and television, performing arts, production design, sound design, visual effects, writing, or general education elective
FASH 105: Intro to Textiles
This lecture/studio course introduces students to the qualities and properties of fashion fabrics. By investigating the fibers, quality, construction, care, and finishing of textiles, students learn the basics of fabric identification and specific uses in the fashion industry. The course requires studio projects and provides demonstrations of basic methods of textile design development, weaving, printing, and dyeing.
Applicable majors: fashion or elective credit
FILM 100: Digital Film Production: Story to Screen
Through the collaborative stages of digital film production, students acquire the terminology, skills, and techniques to visually tell stories. As they create their first film, students take on a variety of roles, learning the fundamentals of script development and preproduction, camera, lighting and sound techniques, and editing.
Applicable majors: dramatic writing, film and television, production design, or elective credit
GAME 130: Digital Design Aesthetics
This course provides the foundation for visualizing and understanding the essential vocabularies, principles, and concepts of design, color, and visual literacy as applied to interactive digital work.
Applicable majors: interactive design and game development or elective credit
GRDS 201: Intro to Graphic Design
This course combines studio work with classroom instruction. Fundamental components of design theory and typography are incorporated with problem definition to provide students with valuable experience in the ideation, research, execution, and presentation of projects. Lectures and visual media provide a broad introduction to the visual communication professional field.
Applicable majors: graphic design, user experience research, or elective credit
IDUS 100: Introduction to Industrial Design
This course introduces students to the industrial design profession. Lectures, discussions, and problem‐solving exercises explore industrial design as a creative process, examine its history, and provide insight into professional opportunities in the field.
Applicable majors: industrial design or elective credit
MOME 105: Principles of Motion Media Design
From advertisements to film, motion media plays a vital role in the appearance of branding and imagery in media. In this course, students explore the key aspects of motion media, including the historical application of typography and design principles, basic compositing, animation principles, keyframing, and vector and raster asset integration.
Applicable majors: motion media design or elective credit
PROD 103: Intro to Entertainment Design
Students examine the fundamentals of production design, including costume, set, and lighting. Emphasis is placed on the importance of these elements to the communication of story in film, television, theater, and themed entertainment productions.
Applicable majors: production design or elective credit
SEQA 100: Intro to Sequential Art
Introducing the components of sequential art, this course explores visual narrative theories and techniques. Students become familiar with the discipline of sequential art and the various standard tools and techniques involved.
Applicable majors: sequential art or elective credit