Graduates pursuing further education or career advancement in digital design can benefit from a variety of scholarships aimed at supporting their academic and professional development. Here are several scholarship opportunities specifically for digital design graduates:
1. Industry-Specific Scholarships:
- Adobe Design Achievement Awards (ADAA):
- Offers scholarships and recognition to students and recent graduates who demonstrate exceptional talent in digital media and design.
- AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships:
- Provides scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in graphic design, photography, and illustration. Emphasis is placed on diversity and supporting economically disadvantaged students.
2. Foundation and Organization Scholarships:
- The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF):
- Awards scholarships to students pursuing careers in graphic communications, printing, and digital design.
- The Society for Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD) Scholarships:
- Offers scholarships to students studying graphic design, interior design, architecture, industrial design, or other related fields. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in environmental graphic design.
3. University-Specific Scholarships:
- School of Visual Arts (SVA) Scholarships:
- Offers a range of scholarships for students in various design programs, including digital design. Check the specific offerings for graduate students.
- Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Scholarships:
- Provides merit-based and need-based scholarships for students pursuing degrees in digital design and related fields.
4. Professional Association Scholarships:
- American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA):
- Offers multiple scholarships for design students, including the AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships mentioned earlier. Membership may provide additional resources and opportunities.
- Interactive Design Foundation Scholarships:
- Provides scholarships for online courses and further education in digital design and UX/UI design.
5. Corporate and Private Scholarships:
- Google Scholarships:
- Google Lime Scholarship: Supports students with disabilities pursuing education in computer science and related fields, which can include digital design.
- Google Student Veterans of America Scholarship: Available for veterans pursuing a degree in computer science or a related field.
- Apple Scholars Program:
- Offers scholarships to students in various technology and design-related fields, promoting diversity and innovation.
Application Tips:
- Highlight Your Work: Provide a strong portfolio showcasing your digital design projects. Ensure your portfolio is well-organized and highlights your best work.
- Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Clearly articulate your passion for digital design, your career goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve these goals.
- Gather Strong Recommendations: Secure letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or professionals who can speak to your skills and potential in digital design.
- Tailor Each Application: Customize your application materials to align with the specific requirements and values of each scholarship program.
- Meet Deadlines: Be mindful of application deadlines and submit your materials well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
By exploring these scholarships and preparing strong applications, digital design graduates can secure financial support to further their education and advance their careers in the dynamic field of digital design.