M.A. in Interactive Design and Game Development

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. A minimum academic requirement of a 60% or above in the previous academic program is expected. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.5.

   • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 85 with no band less than 20 is expected.

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 58 is required with no band less than 53.

3. Portfolio : Applicants are required to submit a portfolio showcasing their previous creative work and experience.

SCAD is committed to supporting international students in achieving their educational and creative aspirations. The university offers a range of scholarships specifically designed to help international students pursue their studies.

1. International Student Scholarships: SCAD offers various merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, artistic talent, and the potential for creative excellence.

2. Distinguished Scholar Award: This prestigious award is given to exceptional undergraduate students, including international students, who demonstrate outstanding academic and artistic accomplishments. It provides substantial financial support.

3. Graduate Fellowships: SCAD offers graduate fellowships to international students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees. These fellowships cover tuition and other educational expenses and are awarded based on academic achievement and creative potential.

4. International Honors Scholarships: These scholarships recognize and reward the achievements of international undergraduate students. They can significantly offset the cost of tuition.

5. Regional Scholarships: SCAD offers scholarships for students from specific regions or countries. These awards aim to increase cultural diversity and foster a global community at SCAD.

6. Online Student Scholarships: International students who choose to pursue their education through SCAD's online programs can also access a range of scholarships designed to support their virtual learning journey.

7. Need-Based Scholarships: SCAD provides need-based scholarships for international students who may require financial assistance to pursue their creative education.

8. Talent-Based Scholarships: In addition to academic excellence, SCAD recognizes and rewards talent in various artistic fields, such as visual arts, performing arts, and creative writing.

9. SCAD Challenge Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who participate and excel in the SCAD Challenge, a competition that showcases creative talent.

10. International Baccalaureate (IB) Scholarships: SCAD offers scholarships to students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

11. Artistic Achievement Scholarships: These awards are designed to recognize exceptional accomplishments in various artistic disciplines and creative fields.

SCAD's commitment to supporting international students through scholarships underscores its dedication to promoting diversity, talent, and artistic excellence. These scholarship opportunities enable international students to access a world-class art and design education and contribute to a vibrant global creative community.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Interactive Design and Game Development program at SCAD - Atlanta is your gateway to an exciting career in the ever-evolving world of game design and interactive media. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic industry.  

1. Game Developer: As a game developer, you'll be responsible for creating, coding, and programming video games. Whether you work on indie projects or collaborate with major game studios, this role allows you to bring your creative ideas to life in the form of interactive experiences.

2. Game Designer: Game designers are the architects of gameplay. They conceptualize game mechanics, storylines, and user experiences. This role combines creativity with problem-solving and is crucial to the success of any game.

3. Level Designer: Level designers focus on creating the individual challenges, missions, or levels within a game. This role requires a deep understanding of game mechanics and player engagement.

4. User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers ensure that players have an intuitive and enjoyable experience. They work on the user interface (UI), game controls, and overall player interaction. UX design is not limited to games and can also be applied to various interactive media projects.

5. Virtual Reality (VR) Developer: With the growing popularity of VR and augmented reality (AR), VR developers are in high demand. They create immersive experiences for gaming, simulations, education, and more.

6. Augmented Reality (AR) Developer: AR developers design applications and games that overlay digital content onto the real world through mobile devices or AR glasses. This field has vast potential for innovation.

7. Serious Games Developer: Serious games are designed for purposes beyond entertainment, such as education, healthcare, training, and simulation. Developers in this area contribute to meaningful and impactful projects.

8. Independent Game Developer: If you're entrepreneurial, you can venture into independent game development. Create your own games or join small teams to work on innovative and experimental projects.

9. Game Writer or Narrative Designer: Game writers and narrative designers craft the storylines and dialogues that drive the narrative of a game. They play a pivotal role in creating immersive and emotionally engaging experiences.

10. Educator or Game Design Instructor: Share your expertise by teaching the next generation of game designers. Many universities and educational institutions are expanding their game design programs.

11. Game Producer: Producers oversee the development process, managing teams, budgets, and timelines. They ensure that the final product aligns with the creative vision and business objectives.

12. Quality Assurance (QA) Tester: QA testers play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and functionality of games. They identify and report bugs and issues for developers to address.

13. Video Game Journalist or Critic: Combine your passion for games with writing skills and become a game journalist or critic. You'll review and analyze games, trends, and industry developments.

14. Interactive Media Designer: Beyond games, interactive media designers work on various interactive projects, including websites, mobile apps, and interactive installations.

15. Creative Director: In this leadership role, you'll guide the artistic and creative direction of game development projects, making high-level decisions that impact the overall experience.