ACADEMICS
— at San Diego Institute of Technology
A New Model of Learning
At SDIT, we believe education should prepare you not only for a career, but for a meaningful life in a rapidly changing world. Our academic philosophy blends STEM, the arts, systems thinking, and creative exploration—equipping students with both technical mastery and the ability to shape culture.
We call this a Modern Scholar education: flexible, interdisciplinary, and purpose-driven.
Programs of Study
(Launching Pilot Programs 2026)
Liberal Arts & Foundations
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Modern Scholar Guidebook – A curated foundation in philosophy, literature, history, and science, designed to train the mind like a gym trains the body.
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Creative Intelligence – A core course in thinking across disciplines, blending logic, design, and creative problem-solving.
Engineering & Technology
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Unmanned Systems & Robotics – From drones to autonomous systems, hands-on courses in design, coding, and control.
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Spectrum & Signals – Wireless communications, SDR, and open hardware research for the next era of connectivity.
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Systems Engineering – Understanding complexity and building resilient, scalable technologies.
Arts & Design
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Film & Visual Storytelling – Cinematic tools for cultural impact.
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Music & Sound – Exploring composition, recording, and the future of sonic design.
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Visual Design & Branding – Creativity applied to communication, products, and experiences.
Labs & Experimentation
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DEUS (Department of Engineering & Unmanned Systems Lab) – Pioneering resilient, sovereign engineering solutions.
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Wild Card Lab – Open experimentation across art, science, and systems.
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Mental Models Lab – Exploring tools for better decision-making, creativity, and thought.
Learning Approach
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Hands-On First – We believe you learn best by building, experimenting, and creating.
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Interdisciplinary by Design – Every program blends STEM with creativity, humanities with engineering.
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Mentorship & Community – Students learn directly from innovators, creators, and practitioners.
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Accessible Pathways – Pilot courses and workshops open to all backgrounds.
Student Journey
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At SDIT, there is no single “track.” Students design their path through:
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Foundation Courses – Core knowledge and critical thinking.
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Labs & Studios – Hands-on experimentation.
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Projects – Real-world challenges that create a portfolio of impact.
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Mentorship – Guidance from faculty, advisors, and peers.
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