The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has partnered with globally acclaimed musician, composer, and bandleader Jon Batiste to launch a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in vocal performance, redefining how the next generation of performers will prepare for careers in the entertainment industry. Launching this fall, SCAD’s first audition-only degree will welcome its inaugural class, with Batiste serving as the program’s founding director.
Designed for today’s multifaceted performers, the new degree reflects the evolving entertainment industry, where artists move seamlessly among music, stage, film, and television. Students will hone their vocal artistry while mastering the musicianship, storytelling, and creative versatility needed to build lasting careers.
“With Dr. Jon Batiste serving as the Founding Director of SCAD’s new vocal performance degree, students are sure to enjoy unparalleled opportunities to develop their own talents into a thriving profession,” said SCAD president and founder Paula Wallace. “Mentored by Jon and other legendary performers, SCAD students write, produce, and perform across every platform, from studio to screen to the world’s every stage. Only SCAD offers vocal artists an education as complete as the careers they—and audiences—will love.”
An Emmy, Academy Award, Golden Globe, and an eight time Grammy Award-winning artist, Batiste helped define the program’s vision and creative direction, drawing on his experience as a performer, composer, and collaborator across music, film, television, and live performance. His appointment as founding director reflects a shared commitment between SCAD and Batiste to prepare the next generation of artists for sustainable success in today’s increasingly interconnected entertainment landscape.
“My family has deep roots in the southern United States, hailing from Louisiana and Georgia. I am so excited to invite singers from all around the world to join me back home down south for this very special program that will help to hone, deepen, and celebrate the power of your one-of-a-kind voice,” said Batiste. “SCAD is a blessing for artists who want to study the craft while actively pursuing professional opportunities. President Paula Wallace has built such a positive, encouraging and rigorous educational environment that supports every facet of your artistic journey. ”
The new degree marks the next chapter in Batiste’s growing partnership with SCAD. Over the past year, he has collaborated with the university on several creative initiatives, including the development of Press Play, SCAD’s first music listening lounge. Designed as an immersive destination for discovery and critical listening, the space features a curated vinyl collection and individual listening stations that invite students to experience music as both artists and audiences. Batiste also served as SCAD’s 2025 commencement speaker, sharing his perspective on creativity before surprising graduates with an unforgettable live piano and vocal performance.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in vocal performance joins SCAD’s School of Film and Acting alongside programs in acting, film and television, production design, sound design, and music production, creating an interdisciplinary environment where performers collaborate with filmmakers, designers, composers, and producers as they prepare for careers across the entertainment industry. Students interested in learning more about the Bachelor of Fine Arts in vocal performance and the audition process can visit scad.edu/vocal-performance
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