Graduate portfolios

Applicants should prepare two contrasting monologues or one monologue and one song (must provide sheet music for an in-person audition), 4-minutes total audition length. Submissions through Slideroom are acceptable. Headshots are accepted but not required.

Portfolios should emphasize the applicant's ability to develop original advertising ideas, demonstrate the ability to carry a design through multiple pieces (campaign), and represent the applicant's proficiency with design software. Examples of work should show sensible use of composition, typography, and coordination of words and images. Examples may be augmented by other relevant work that reflects the applicant's interests and abilities such as graphic design, photography, and illustration.

When applying to the M.A. or M.F.A. program, applicants should clarify their area(s) and medium(s) of interest within the animation production pipeline (i.e. 2D character animation or 3D character animation). Stated interests should be consistent between both application and portfolio components.

The M.A. program suits candidates who seek to develop and expand their existing skills. Applicants must have prior experience within the areas taught by the SCAD School of Animation Motion and/or the SCAD School of Creative Technology.

Candidates looking to pair skill development and expansion with an emphasis on research should pursue the M.F.A. program. Applicants may have undergraduate degrees and experience within the areas taught by the SCAD School of Animation Motion and/or the SCAD School of Creative Technology, as well as experience with or interest in other disciplines and industries.

M.A. students:

• A clear and organized résumé.
• Drawings (at least 10 full pages) that demonstrate creativity and observation from life with well-captured perspectives and anatomy. Candidates must submit the drawing portfolio as a single PDF file.
• A two-minute demo reel of three to five best works (five pieces maximum). The reel can include schoolwork, passion projects, and work for clients. Candidates should be sure to demonstrate cinematic language and provide clear documentation of their creative process (can be presented in a separate PDF file format) and/or breakdown of the development and execution for each project (included in demo reel). The candidate’s role and contribution to each work should be clearly defined.
• A statement of purpose addressing the following:
  • Introduce your work, a body of work, or a specific project. What drives you to create?
  • Discuss an animation-related project that has inspired you (an example outside of mainstream animation is encouraged).
  • Detail other artists and fields of study that inspire your work. How might they influence the animations you create?
  • If any, discuss any collaborative experience you have and the role(s) you have played in a team environment.
• In addition to the written statement of purpose, a two to three-minute video discussing the following:
  • Describe the transformative moment when you decided to pursue a higher education in the field of animation.
  • Discuss your area(s) of interest and what led you to pursue an M.A. in animation.
  • Note: For all videos, the file format should be a .MP4 with h.264 compression at 1920x1080p. The candidate must speak to the camera.

M.F.A. students:

• A clear and organized résumé.
• Drawings (at least 10 full pages) that demonstrate creativity and observation from life with well-captured perspectives and anatomy. Candidates must submit the drawing portfolio as a single PDF file.
• A portfolio of three to five best works (maximum of five) from any discipline. The portfolio can include schoolwork, passion projects, and work for clients. Candidates should preferably demonstrate cinematic language (visualized through photography, film, design, etc.) and provide clear documentation of their creative process. Documentation can be presented in a separate PDF file of no more than 250 words (can use bullet points) using one page per project. If presenting a demo reel, include a breakdown of the development and execution for each project within the reel. The candidate’s role and contribution to each work should be clearly defined. List any programs and software used.
• A statement of purpose addressing the following:
  • Introduce your work, a body of work, or a specific project. What drives you to create?
  • Discuss an animation-related project that has inspired you (an example outside of mainstream animation is encouraged).
  • Detail other artists and fields of study that inspire your work. How might they influence the animations you create?
  • If any, discuss any collaborative experience you have and the role(s) you have played in a team environment.
• In addition to the written statement of purpose, a two to three-minute video discussing the area(s) of research and creative exploration the candidate is interested in pursuing at SCAD. Visual examples may be incorporated as needed.
  • Note: For all videos, the file format should be a .MP4 with h.264 compression at 1920x1080p. The candidate must speak to the camera.

A university-level research paper with a minimum of 10 pages that demonstrates critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. The paper should include illustrations, if appropriate.

Portfolios should include examples of work completed in architectural and other creative studios, independently, or in a professional office. A brief description of design intent should be submitted with each project, clearly indicating when and in what studio the project was completed and the applicant's role. Portfolios should demonstrate creative abilities and development of a personal architectural and design language, application of concepts to architectonic solutions, and free-hand, analog, and digital drawing and graphics abilities.

A university-level research paper with a minimum of 10 pages that demonstrates critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills. The paper should include footnotes and a bibliography. The paper should include illustrations, if appropriate.

Portfolios should include writing samples with at least one sample of university-level research writing (minimum 10 pages); at least one sample of professional writing demonstrating critical and analytical thinking as well as advanced research and writing skills; and at least one other writing sample, such as business documents, essays, grant proposals, promotional writing, press releases, planning documents, or journalistic work. As part of the portfolio, applicants should select an inspiring existing business (for-profit, nonprofit, or hybrid) in their field of interest, which they consider to have an innovative business model. They should answer the following questions, in no more than two pages: What is the business model innovation? What spurred adoption of the innovative business model? How was it implemented? What were the results? What could be done differently to improve upon those results?

The Statement of Purpose must clearly articulate how the creative business leadership degree is relevant and how it will enable the student to attain their professional and career goals.

Prospective students should submit the following materials:

• A two- to three-minute video self-introduction that responds to the following questions: What do you want your future SCAD classmates and faculty to know about you? What drives you? Describe what you would be doing on a Wednesday at 5 p.m. in 10 years?
• An 800–1,000-word essay on a specific opportunity facing an organization where you can make a positive impact. Please address: What do you seek to improve? What would be your strategy to attain your goal? How will an M.A. or M.B.I. degree in design management from SCAD enable your success?
• A portfolio with three academic and/or professional projects that showcase your critical thinking skills and creativity. These can be business plans, design projects, project briefs, presentations, or even spreadsheets. Explain how you identified the problem, explored alternative options, defined the opportunity, considered and executed the solution(s), and what results were achieved.

Based on the materials submitted, students may be assigned graduate-intensive coursework during the admission review process. Students may submit additional materials prior to enrollment to be considered for a waiver of those courses.

Portfolios should include academic and/or professional projects that clearly present purpose, scope of work, research methodology, and accomplishments. The portfolio should demonstrate the ability to define and process problems demonstrating conceptual thinking skills, reveal interest or experience in sustainability, and should demonstrate a high level of creativity and attention to detail. It should consist of five to eight samples of work, including short narratives of design processes and project development, and may contain written material in addition to a strong visual or graphic elements.

Portfolios should include at least five individual writing samples, which must include a minimum of three scripts demonstrating an understanding of dramatic structure and the fundamentals of narrative, script-based storytelling. Short screenplays, one-act plays, a full or partially completed feature screenplay, a full or partially completed stage play, TV pilot scripts,TV spec scripts, webisodes, or comedy sketches are all acceptable. Please use proper screenplay, teleplay, or stage play format.

The portfolio should consist of the following:

• A designed professional résumé.
• 2-3 fashion design projects, fully documented from initial inspiration to final realization, demonstrating the ideation, visualization, and execution of original concepts. Each project must include inspiration or mood boards, fabric and materials, color, consumer profile, pages from sketchbook and process development, evidence of original material exploration, fashion sketching, draping and 3D experimentation, mock-ups, illustrations and flats, and photographic and/or video documentation of realization (muslin development and final garments).
• A passion project. The submission must include documentation of the design process (ideation, research, sketches, development, and final execution). Everyone is uniquely passionate about something — this should be based on addressing both the applicant’s unique area of interest, as well as a current challenge affecting the fashion industry. Choose a subject that you are passionate about and design a three-look collection from which one look will be executed as a final 3D, industry-ready prototype. The work presented must clearly address both the applicant’s chosen focus area and the identified industry challenge. Documentation of the passion project must include all elements listed above, as well as a 2-minute video presentation in which the applicant discusses the work, its inspiration, the challenges encountered, and the learning gained from it. Video presentations can be recorded in languages other than English, in which case the applicant may use a translator, or add English-language subtitles to their video file.
• All work shown in the portfolio must be fully realized and documented. Template-based work is not acceptable.
• All work shown in the portfolio must have a design narrative (a short description of the project concept and intention) with the role the applicant played in the design and execution of the work. Any instance of collaboration, outsourcing, or contracting must be clearly and specifically identified.
• Portfolio must evidence working knowledge of appropriate application of industry-standard design software as well as traditional techniques of visual communication and apparel realization.
• In addition to the specifications for the statement of purpose outlined in the admission requirements, the statement of purpose for all graduate applicants for fashion must include a clear discussion of the specific intended area of interest for thesis or final project work.

Portfolios should demonstrate a well-developed personal aesthetic vision and the ability to develop work around a theme or concept as evidenced by one or more series of related works accompanied by an artist/designer statement. A minimum of 20 pieces should be submitted. Applicants also are encouraged to submit a selection of sketchbook/process/research work.

Submit one or multiple pieces in various formats, examples include the following:

1. Video work: Short narrative or documentary films, music videos, video essays, or any other video projects. Maximum length of 10 minutes.
2. Mixed media projects: Animations, interactive installations, or other mixed media creations. Maximum length of five minutes.
3. Written works: Poetry, short stories, essays, scripts, creative non-fiction, or any other literary compositions. Maximum length of 10 pages.
4. Performance arts: Music compositions, recorded performances, theatrical pieces, dance routines, or any other performance art. Maximum length of five minutes or five pages.
5. Visual arts: Paintings, drawings, sculptures, digital artwork, photography, graphic design, or any other visual medium. Maximum length of five pages.
If an applicant has prior film experience, we encourage them to submit materials that demonstrate their knowledge of script development, producing, directing, cinematography, and/or postproduction.

M.F.A. students:
• A high-quality film or video piece for which the student is credited as a cinematographer wherein film lights are utilized. (FILM 501)
• A properly-formatted short screenplay (10 pages or less) that demonstrates visual storytelling, subtext, character arc, and engaging plot. (FILM 502)
• Pre-production materials from a produced film or video project wherein the student is credited as a producer, co-producer, or associate producer including budget, schedule, and call sheets created using industry-standard software such as Movie Magic. (FILM 503)
• A high-quality film or video piece for which the student is credited as a director. (FILM 504)
• The final edit and accompanying screenshot of NLE timeline from a film or video project for which the student is credited as an editor or assistant editor. (FILM 505)

Cinematography M.A. students:
• A high-quality film or video piece for which the student is credited as a cinematographer wherein film lights are utilized. (FILM 501)
• A high-quality film or video piece for which the student is credited as a director. (FILM 504)

Editing M.A. students:
• A properly-formatted short screenplay (10 pages or less) that demonstrates visual storytelling, subtext, character arc, and engaging plot. (FILM 502)
• The final edit and accompanying screenshot of NLE timeline from a film or video project for which the student is credited as an editor or assistant editor. (FILM 505)

Portfolios should include six to 10 distinct design projects and show competency in the full breadth of the design process, including research, inspiration, or motivation that informed the work. Additionally, examples of visual creative thinking, informative sketching, 3-D visualization/problem-solving such as models, studies, or mock ups, as well as digital visual communication, including technical drawing, modeling, and presentation, should be included. Work may originate from a range of design disciplines and does not need to be limited to furniture design.

For consideration to either the M.F.A. or M.A. program candidates should submit the following:

• A two- to three-minute video self-introduction that responds to the following questions:
• What do you want your future SCAD classmates and faculty to know about you?
• If you were teaching design at SCAD, what are the two top things you would most want your students to know to be successful designers. Why?
• Elucidate your love of graphic design for us. Highlight the key aspects of the discipline that resonate with you.
• A well-designed résumé that articulates your design experience and competencies. Describe your unique set of experiences, skills, and your "wizard-level, absolutely insane design traits."
• Submit a portfolio of a minimum of six examples of professional and/or academic work.
• Projects should exhibit a variety of channels, media, systems, and applications and demonstrate all phases of design, from research and exploration to execution of final work and everything in between.
• Submitted work should be well-documented and include a concise written overview of research conducted, clearly stated goals for each piece, and how each work accomplishes the outlined goals. Featured work should be well-designed, multi-page PDFs (not long, scrolling presentation boards).
• At least one of the six projects must include editorial-length typographic design (min. of 2,000 words) that demonstrates typographic and multi-page layout and structure. This project should include headlines, subheadings, and body copy and must evidence an understanding and application of Western typographic rules and expression.
• Be sure to submit all required materials outlined above. If your current portfolio lacks one or more of the criteria listed, you are invited to create a project for the purposes of this submission.

Based on the materials submitted, students may be assigned graduate-intensive coursework during the admission review process. However, students may submit additional materials prior to enrollment to be considered for a waiver of those courses.

A portfolio of 12-16 pieces must demonstrate a proficiency in a range of mediums. It must be composed of six to eight finished pieces (full color and black-and-white), which demonstrate an interest in, and a commitment to, illustrative problem-solving; these finished pieces must reflect real industry assignments. In addition to the finished pieces, the portfolio must include three to four pieces of illustration process work (preliminary work, such as conceptual/formal studies, which resulted in the final work in the portfolio). The portfolio must include three to four drawings from life-drawing classes and/or direct observation, as well as work from a personal sketchbook or journal. Work should be submitted in digital format using SlideRoom.

Portfolios should demonstrate your skill sets, problem-solving abilities, and the design process through an array of media to include: research, sketching, CAD renderings, and model making. Portfolios may include no more than three writing samples with at least one sample of scholarly writing. Work should be submitted in digital format and writings should follow academic paper format.

Video requirement
In addition to the portfolio submission (guidelines below), graduate students applying for the program are required to submit a talking-head (you are in front of the camera) video describing one project that you have submitted in your portfolio. Make sure to:

1. describe the situation or context of the project (i.e., was it a class, a job, contract work)
2. the tasks that you performed
3. the accomplishments you are proud of (i.e., deployed product on time)
4. the software and tools you used such as AI
5. the results and impact of the work (i.e., number of downloads, views, awards,)

Video guidelines:

• No longer than three minutes
• The prospective student must be speaking in front of the camera
• Can include images of work only if it doesn’t cover the face of the prospective student
• Must describe at least one project
• Max 10 megabytes (.mov)

Portfolios should demonstrate either a focus in interactive design OR game development with a body of work demonstrating focus and intention in mastery of subject. Traditional art and design skills are acceptable as well as digital designs. Applicants must show proficiency in Photoshop or Illustrator and demonstrate presentation polish. Annotations of mental map to solutions are appreciated. A strong portfolio includes presentation of process in addition to final solutions such as design documentation, model breakdowns, concept sketches, or relevant research.

Applicants who intend to focus on Interactive Design should show interactive work, including interactive or physical computing installations, experience designs, websites, software, and other user interface designs, and showcase ability to apply typographic rules, layout, and composition to Web applications. Ideally, the portfolio or résuméshould note skills in basic HTML, web design, or scripting abilities in addition to research documentation. Research documentation should be succinct to relevant design decisions. Links to live examples can be included in documentation to review websites or working apps.

Applicants who intend to focus on Game Art (Character and Environment art) should show work that demonstrates strong traditional art and design skills, through still life, figure drawing, concept art and page layout. 3D models can be presented in model sheets or video turnarounds showing various angles, wireframes, UVs, texture, and material work. Environments can also be submitted in video format or as rendered stills. All work should show proficiency in 3D modeling and material workflows in Maya, 3DS Max, Blender, or ZBrush and Substance. A good game art portfolio should also demonstrate workflow from concept to final implementation.

Applicants who intend to focus on Game Design, which includes areas such as gameplay scripting or level design, should show playable game levels, examples of visual or traditional scripting, original designs in digital or non-digital formats (paper-prototypes) including rule sets (if applicable), and samples of design documentation (including, where applicable, systems design, narrative design, mission design, core features, USPs, etc). Playtest descriptions, change logs and system evaluations will show the applicant’s iterative design process. A good design portfolio will demonstrate page layout skills that highlight your ability to communicate your ideas clearly and succinctly. Video voice-over of walkthroughs for game designs are more than welcomed as a submission format in addition to those outlined above.

If you are submitting any work from a group project, your contributions must be clearly identified and labeled. All applicants must clearly identify their intended area of focus within the fields of Interactive Design and Game Development. A well-rounded Game Development portfolio may show work in all areas outlined above.

For applicants to the M.F.A. program, portfolios should include work from all phases of design: conceptual and process drawings, sketches, perspectives, and technical drawings. Work should demonstrate proficiency in the technical requirements of interior design projects, including codes, interior building systems and construction, lighting, interior materials, and sustainability as fundamental components of the interior built environment. In addition, portfolio work should show proficiency in graphic communication, hand and digital representation skills, and techniques utilized within the advanced study of interior design. Drawings should include floor plans, elevations, sections, and lighting/power plans and perspective renderings.

Applicants to the M.A. program must submit a university-level research paper with a minimum of 10 pages. Topics should be contemporary, impacting the future of the interior design profession and demonstrate the applicant's critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.

All applicants must submit a portfolio of work consisting of a maximum of 20 images and a writing sample that addresses a contemporary issue in the field. A strong portfolio demonstrates conceptual ability, strong design methodology, and confident handling of diverse materials and processes.

Portfolios should include a professional development plan. The portfolio should demonstrate the ability to define and process problems and to plan or diagram strategies, as well as show confidence in innovation and an emphasis on a high level of creative problem-solving. Project summaries such as business plans, proposals, project briefs, or presentations may be included. The portfolio should also include a visual component that demonstrates the applicant's understanding of the power of visual representation of a luxury brand and graphics. Work should be submitted in digital format, research paper, or writing format, as applicable.

Portfolios should include at least three motion pieces, each 30 seconds to 2 minutes in length, as well as five to 10 examples of graphic/visual work accompanied by a concept statement. Portfolios should exhibit a strong understanding of visual problem-solving and process, including evidence and understanding of design, typographic motion, and animation skills. In addition, portfolios should show knowledge and effective use of industry software and tools to support the aesthetic. Applicants should also submit a writing sample that addresses the role of motion media design in popular culture.

Portfolios should include 20 examples of work that demonstrate artistic maturity, as well as the capacity to develop an idea through a series of works. Applicants should include a related series of their most recent work that indicates their current artistic direction and demonstrates a committed studio practice.

Portfolios should exhibit a coherence of vision and an excellence in craft. Images should demonstrate significant experience in making photographs, a mature aesthetic awareness, and strong technical skills. A successful portfolio should demonstrate the applicant’s capacity to develop an in-depth and consistent investigation into a particular subject matter, aesthetic, or genre with an outcome that shows artistic insight as well as visual continuity. Work should be submitted in digital format as a portfolio of 20 images. The inventory sheet should include brief technical notes regarding the nature of the images such as capture method, post production manipulations, print materials. Applicant's statement of purpose should be no more than two pages and include references to the applicant's reasons for seeking the degree, post-degree career goals, and any relevant experience in the discipline that does not appear on their transcripts.

Portfolios should exhibit an advanced understanding of visual problem-solving and process, including evidence and understanding of contextual research, perspective, and orthographic sketching, manual or CAD proficiency, rendering in different media (including digital), and model-making principles; and may be augmented by additional work that represents interest and ability in visual and creative professions, with an emphasis on visual problem-solving. Portfolios may include no more than three writing samples. Work should be submitted in digital and research paper/writing format.

Portfolios should demonstrate research and creative problem-solving skills applied, but not limited to, brands, services, products, processes, spaces, communications, and/or user experiences. Showcase five professional and/or academic projects by providing a visual and verbal explanation of your role in the design process in terms of uncovered insights, framed problems, team-developed ideas, and proposed solutions.

Students whose academic or professional background is in business or another field may choose to submit GMAT or GRE scores in lieu of a portfolio. Students admitted on the basis of test scores will be assigned graduate intensive course work during the admission review process. Students wishing to be exempted from assigned intensive course work may submit portfolio materials prior to enrollment to be considered for a waiver of those courses.

Portfolios should show a concentration in visual narrative through sequential art and should demonstrate exceptional skill in both visual and narrative composition, placement of figures within environments, storytelling, and figure drawing. A strong personal direction should be evident in the portfolio and substantiated in the written statement of purpose. While digital or traditional coloring is not essential in every piece, the applicant should submit at least three images that demonstrate an ability to work with color. Work should be submitted in digital format.

Portfolio submissions should demonstrate the applicant’s understanding of sneaker culture and the intricacies of design that weave together fashion, performance, pop culture, and lifestyle into a comprehensive and compelling body of work.

The portfolio should incorporate elements of conceptual exploration that merges analog and digital worlds through meticulous technical drawings. These drawings must cover a wide spectrum, from hand-drawn sketches to sophisticated digital renderings, and should also include vivid explorations of colorways, prints, and texture designs arranged on boards.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate a mastery of computer design, 3D product rendering, and technical knowledge of the production and manufacturing process. Concepts in the portfolio should illustrate the applicant’s fashion sensibility and understanding of style, aesthetics, and design, as well as innovation when engineering complete products. A strong foundation in 3D design and keen business acumen are significant advantages.

As applicants compile their work, remember that submissions should be meticulously curated and presented in digital format to ensure visually captivating presentations that underscore your proficiency as one of tomorrow’s leaders in sneaker design.

Portfolios should demonstrate ability in one or more of the following: sound design for visual media (film, video, computer animation or games), sound design for theater, production of music recording (but not composition,) or sound art compositions. If possible, film and game sound designers should include screen shots of their work sessions. Work should be submitted as short (2 minutes or less) QuickTime files.

Themed entertainment is a multidisciplinary field of study and a wide range of portfolio content will be considered. Portfolios may include writing samples, design work for props, special effects, costumes, scenic paint, lighting, scenic models, graphics, sculpture, storyboard illustrations, technical drawings, thematic and/or architectural renderings, industrial design prototypes, and any work from a field related to themed entertainment, and should exhibit an understanding of environmental storytelling and process.

A vital component of the application process for aspiring candidates seeking admission to an M.F.A. program in UX design is the indispensable UX design portfolio. This portfolio serves as a testament to the applicant's adeptness, creativity, and proficiency in the field of UX design, showcasing their capability to analyze user requirements, develop user-centric solutions, and evaluate design efficacy. It stands as a testament to their competence and readiness for the rigorous M.F.A. program.

Outlined below are the essential prerequisites for crafting a comprehensive UX design portfolio for M.F.A. degree applicants:

• Résumé and statement of purpose: A meticulously designed professional résumé should accentuate the candidate's UX design experience and competencies. The candidate's statement of purpose should not only outline their intended thesis focus but also align with admission requirements.
• UX design projects: The portfolio must feature detailed case studies of three to four UX design projects, each exemplifying the candidate's prowess in applying UX design principles to real-world problems. These case studies should encompass the complete UX design process, from user research to testing phases.

Within each UX design project, the following key components should be addressed:

• User research: Provide compelling evidence of the applicant's adeptness in conducting comprehensive user research and sophisticated analysis. Explain methodologies used and how insights guided design decisions.
• Design process: Offer a comprehensive exposition of the design process, including wireframing, prototyping, and user testing. Emphasize iterative refinement using user feedback.
• Design solution: Showcase creativity and innovation, encouraging candidates to produce portfolio pieces that impress and inspire, reflecting their unique design perspective.
• Accessibility and communication skills: Highlight a deep understanding of accessibility principles and effective communication, reflecting the capacity to present designs and articulate design rationale.

Portfolio format and realization: The presentation should exemplify professionalism and user-friendliness, facilitating easy navigation. It should encapsulate concise yet in-depth portrayals of user research, design concepts, processes, and innovative solutions. Individual contributions to each project should be highlighted.

Documentation and application of software:Artifacts must be meticulously realized and documented. Print-based works require tangible documentation, while web-based projects need accessible URLs. Interactive examples should include functional prototypes and well-structured code. Proficiency in industry standard UX design software, tools, and techniques should be demonstrated.

In conclusion, the UX design portfolio reflects the candidate's ability to devise user-centric solutions, communicate effectively, and collaborate seamlessly. Meeting these stringent requirements not only demonstrates readiness but also attests to preparedness for the demanding M.F.A. program in UX design.

Portfolios should include work that demonstrates familiarity with 3-D and 2-D image creation and manipulation techniques, fluency with software, and resource collection appropriate to these techniques. Each piece submitted should incorporate before-and-after material. Work demonstrating programming skills should be accompanied by documentation explaining the nature and scope of the applicant's contribution. The portfolio may also include traditional media-drawing and painting, photography, sculpture, and design to indicate creative direction and aesthetic awareness.

Portfolios should include at least four individual pieces (10 to 30 pages) from a variety of nonfiction genres, such as personal essay, memoir, literary journalism, promotional writing, writing for the Web, business document, proposal, or scholarly essay. Fiction is also accepted. Applicants should submit no more than two pieces from one genre.