B.F.A. in User Experience Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in User Experience Design at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) - Atlanta offers an innovative curriculum designed to prepare students for a career in creating effective and engaging digital experiences. This program emphasizes the design and development of user interfaces and interactions for websites, applications, and other digital platforms. Students gain hands-on experience through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in the dynamic field of user experience (UX) design.

STEM Designated: The B.F.A. in User Experience Design at SCAD - Atlanta is designated as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program. This designation reflects the program’s focus on integrating technology and design principles to solve complex user experience problems. The STEM designation allows international students to benefit from an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, providing additional opportunities for work experience in the United States after graduation.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.F.A. in User Experience Design at SCAD - Atlanta is carefully structured to provide a comprehensive education in UX principles and practices. Students engage in coursework covering a wide range of topics, including user research, interaction design, usability testing, and information architecture. The program also incorporates advanced studies in digital prototyping, UX strategy, and visual design. Hands-on projects and studio courses are integral to the curriculum, allowing students to build a professional portfolio and gain practical experience in real-world scenarios.

Research Focus: The B.F.A. in User Experience Design at SCAD - Atlanta encourages a strong focus on research and innovation within the field of UX design. Students are supported in conducting user research, analyzing user behavior, and exploring emerging trends in technology and design. Faculty members, who are experienced professionals in the UX field, guide students in developing research-driven design solutions and contribute to the advancement of UX methodologies. Research projects often involve collaboration with industry partners, providing valuable insights and practical applications.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the B.F.A. in User Experience Design program at SCAD - Atlanta. The program offers numerous opportunities for students to connect with industry professionals through internships, workshops, and networking events. Collaborations with leading companies and UX practitioners allow students to work on live projects, gain practical experience, and build a network within the UX community. These experiences are designed to enhance students' understanding of industry standards and prepare them for successful careers in user experience design.

Global Perspective: SCAD - Atlanta’s B.F.A. in User Experience Design program incorporates a global perspective, reflecting the diverse and international nature of the digital design industry. Students have the opportunity to engage with global design trends, participate in international design competitions, and collaborate with peers from various cultural backgrounds. The program’s international approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address the needs of a global audience and adapt to the evolving landscape of user experience design.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 85 or higher.

SCAD is 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

Graduates of the B.F.A. in User Experience Design from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) - Atlanta are well-equipped to enter various roles in the rapidly growing field of UX design. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and practical training prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities in the digital design industry. 

User Experience (UX) Designer: UX Designers focus on creating intuitive and engaging user experiences for websites, applications, and other digital platforms. They conduct user research, design user interfaces, and test prototypes to ensure optimal usability and satisfaction.

User Interface (UI) Designer: UI Designers specialize in designing the visual elements of digital interfaces, such as buttons, icons, and layouts. They work closely with UX designers to ensure that the visual design complements the overall user experience.

Interaction Designer: Interaction Designers concentrate on how users interact with digital products. They design workflows, navigation systems, and interactive elements to enhance user engagement and streamline interactions.

Usability Analyst: Usability Analysts evaluate the effectiveness of digital products by conducting user testing and analyzing user feedback. They identify usability issues and provide recommendations for improving the overall user experience.

Product Designer: Product Designers take a holistic approach to design, integrating user experience principles with product development. They work on the design of digital products from conception to execution, ensuring that they meet user needs and business goals.

UX Researcher: UX Researchers focus on gathering and analyzing data related to user behavior and preferences. They conduct interviews, surveys, and usability tests to provide insights that inform design decisions and improve user experiences.

Information Architect: Information Architects organize and structure content within digital products to ensure that users can easily find and navigate information. They create site maps, navigation systems, and content hierarchies that enhance usability.

Design Strategist: Design Strategists work on aligning design projects with business objectives and user needs. They develop strategies for user-centered design, ensuring that design solutions are effective and aligned with broader business goals.

Freelance UX/UI Designer: Many graduates choose to work as freelance UX/UI Designers, offering their expertise to various clients and projects. Freelancing provides flexibility and the opportunity to work on a diverse range of design challenges.

UX Design Educator: Experienced graduates may pursue careers in education, teaching UX design principles and practices to aspiring designers. They contribute to the field by sharing their knowledge and experience with the next generation of design professionals.