Noncredit Courses

Upcoming Sessions

Summer Courses: May 28–August 9

Engage in material exploration and learn new skills or refresh existing ones in our state-of-the-art facilities and studios. Investigate new modes of creative production, including laser cutting and 3D printing, or find inspiration with access to the Art Institute of Chicago museum, the Fashion Resource Center, Joan Flasch Artists' Book Collection, the Roger Brown Study Collection, and Video Data Bank. As a member of our community, one defined by practice and inquiry, you will cultivate creative confidence, learning with and from your instructors and peers as you produce work based on your personal research and interests.

See All Upcoming Courses and Register Online

What does online learning look like?

Synchronous online courses will use the Zoom video conferencing platform, Canvas learning management system, and SAIC.edu email addresses to deliver course content and facilitate communication between the instructor and students. These courses meet at a specific time of day and are scheduled in Central Time.

Asynchronous online courses are project-based with no set meeting times and 24/7 access to course materials. Weekly activities may include readings, video demonstrations, tutorials, online discussions, assignments, and critiques.

Students enrolled in asynchronous courses will have weekly deadlines encouraged to promote interaction with the instructor and peers. Some instructors may also offer optional video conferencing opportunities through Zoom.

Register online

View current and past brochures including course listings. 
Interested in furthering your artistic development? Learn more about combining ACE courses to earn a Certificate.

Title Catalog Instructor Schedule

Description

Passionate about clothing design and want to illustrate a collection of your own? Working from clothed models and couture garments, you will learn the skills needed to create evocative and effective illustrations. You will explore fabric texture and draping, along with drawing principles including body proportions, movement and position, perspective, and how to apply appropriate exaggeration and stylization. Influential fashion illustrators will be showcased to provide inspiration and context. Previous drawing experience is helpful.

Class Number

2406

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 734

Description

This course examines the fundamentals of two-dimensional design in the digital age. Students will explore principle elements of design including composition, color, and typography through a series of projects that introduce Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as primary graphic design tools. The importance of effective visual communication in both commercial and experimental design is stressed as students gain an understanding of the professional design process from the client brief to the finished digital project. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems, a basic design vocabulary, and an understanding of the specific role that Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop play in creating professional work. Before starting this course, students should be comfortable creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.

Class Number

2412

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 908

Description

This course introduces the skills and insights needed to be a successful interior designer and examines why some designs are more successful than others. More than a style-selection course, you will learn what is required to design and build an interior space, gain a general knowledge of how interior designers work, and examine what it takes to move creative designs from idea to reality. Included is a survey of important and innovative designs happening today.

Class Number

2421

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Sharp 1215

Description

This course examines a selection of seminal works in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Classes meet in the galleries and observe, discuss, and find connections between works in different points of history. Students learn how to analyze a work of art, as well as gain insights into the context of specific periods, the lives of the artists, and range of expression as a basis for further inquiry. This course, part of a three course series, begins with Ancient Greece and Rome and continues through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and 17th and 18th century Romantic periods, ending with the late 19th century and the dawn of Impressionism. Such renowned artists as El Greco, Rembrandt, Rubens and Turner are included, as well as lesser-known artists.

Class Number

2390

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

AIC Front Desk

Description

This course examines the fundamentals of two-dimensional design in the digital age. Students will explore principle elements of design including composition, color, and typography through a series of projects that introduce Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop as primary graphic design tools. The importance of effective visual communication in both commercial and experimental design is stressed as students gain an understanding of the professional design process from the client brief to the finished digital project. Students will leave this course with a solid foundation in strategies for solving design problems, a basic design vocabulary, and an understanding of the specific role that Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop play in creating professional work. Before starting this course, students should be comfortable creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.

Class Number

2413

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

This course introduces the skills and insights needed to be a successful interior designer and examines why some designs are more successful than others. More than a style-selection course, you will learn what is required to design and build an interior space, gain a general knowledge of how interior designers work, and examine what it takes to move creative designs from idea to reality. Included is a survey of important and innovative designs happening today.

Class Number

2422

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Online

Description

Meeting in the galleries of the Art Institute of Chicago museum, this course investigates American art from the Prairie School, Tiffany, the Aesthetic movement, and American Impressionists, among others. Additionally, students will examine Luminist landscapes and the work of modern and contemporary American artists, including, but not limited to: Ivan Albright, Edward Hopper, Barbara Kruger, Georgia O'Keefe, Cindy Sherman, Andy Warhol, and Grant Wood. Students will develop the ability to look closely at, analyze, and discuss the works presented as they learn about the history, literature, music, and theater of the period in which it was created.

Class Number

2391

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

AIC Front Desk

Description

Learn how to think, plan, and draw like an architect in this engaging course focused on the design process and investigating the impact of built environments. Explore architectural design and historical and contemporary architecture as you develop the skills and knowledge to advance your studies in our noncredit certificate program or at another institution. Field trips, readings, and class projects provide an overview of both the science and art of designing buildings. All levels of experience are welcome.

Class Number

2389

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Architecture

Location

Online

Description

Want to use Adobe Illustrator to create sophisticated and complex designs and illustrations while you hone your skills? Learn the basics of the program before moving on to master transparency, feathering, masking, compound paths, gradients, layering techniques, and the specifics of the pen tool. This course will feature dynamic class demonstrations, and group critiques, as well as personalized feedback from your instructor on each assignment and throughout the creative process. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course.

Class Number

2414

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 908

Description

Focus your interests, refine your skills, and learn to create a compelling and personally meaningful body of work. In-class exercises and individual painting assignments will act as the catalyst for you to discover your point of view through painting. You’ll learn to communicate your vision and receive feedback and support from your instructor and peers in one-on-one meetings, group critiques, and discussions. You may work in the painting media (acrylic, oils, tempera, watercolor) of your choosing. Prior painting is helpful but not necessary. Introductory painting skills will not be addressed in this course.

Class Number

2425

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 318

Description

Share your raw and polished literary efforts with our supportive and dynamic community. Explore different poetic, non-fictional, and fictional forms of writing as you learn to find, build, and develop your own stories. Each class is the ideal blend of writing exercises and experiments, peer critique and feedback, and discussion of curated readings hand-picked by your instructor. All levels are welcome; no prior experience is necessary.

Class Number

2431

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Writing

Location

Sharp 402

Description

This course emphasizes the development of observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. The learning sequence progresses from simple forms and skill levels toward more complex compositions. Basic drawing elements such as line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade are investigated through various perceptual and conceptual approaches. Open to beginning students as well as those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.

Class Number

2400

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

Description

In this course, students create, manipulate, and sew patterns that cover the upper half of the female form. Students learn to draft a basic bodice from their personal measurements or by measuring off a dress form, to create a professional sloper, as well as sleeves and collars. They will also manipulate darts, add fullness, and contour. These principles will be used to create a bodice of the student's own design. Previous sewing experience is required. The SAIC ACE course that would provide you with introductory experience is Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals

Class Number

2407

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Online

Description

Learn the skills you need to manipulate and enhance photographs and digital images. Explore the principal elements of design including composition, color, and typography, as you develop strategies for solving design problems, a design vocabulary, and an understanding of the key role Photoshop can play in creating professional work. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course.

Class Number

2415

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

This course focuses on the foundations of photography and the various ways to use a digital camera. Students examine how to choose and shoot subjects that are both personally meaningful in content and contemporary in context. Instruction includes capturing and printing images in both black and white and color, and investigating digital photo editing. Discussions on the history of photography and individual and group critiques are included. Students must supply their own digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera with manual functions; no point and shoot cameras.

Class Number

2429

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Photography

Location

280 Building Rm 120

Description

This course emphasizes the development of observational drawing skills and hand-eye coordination. The learning sequence progresses from simple forms and skill levels toward more complex compositions. Basic drawing elements such as line, proportion, perspective, composition, texture, and the study of light and shade are investigated through various perceptual and conceptual approaches. Open to beginning students as well as those who want to refresh their skills before moving on to more advanced studio courses.

Class Number

2566

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 305

Description

Learn the skills you need to format layout projects in InDesign. Explore the principal elements of the software including paragraph and character styles, object styles, layers, and master pages, as well as how to import graphics. Develop strategies for solving design problems, a design vocabulary, and an understanding of the key role InDesign can play in creating professional work. Students should have basic computer skills before signing up for this course, experience with Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop is recommended.

Class Number

2416

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

This course emphasizes the artist's role in children's picture book illustration and focuses on the world of visual storytelling. Through demonstrations and in-class assignments, students working at a variety of skill levels explore materials and techniques used to create children's book illustrations; images that guide children into a whole new imaginative universe through a sequence of memorable visual images. Creating book dummies to organize their ideas, students learn to balance text and image on the page. Students should have basic drawing skills.

Class Number

2420

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Illustration

Location

Sharp 1214

Description

Gain a competitive edge as a designer, artist, or maker by advancing your understanding of color theory. Learn about the variety of ways that color is considered and used as a design element. Working with current color theory principles and models, develop color plans and concepts in relationship to individual and group projects. This research is compiled in sketchbook/notebook format and is used as reference for independent projects. Studies and hands-on studio work reveal the multiple ways that color can transform concepts with cohesive and expressive results.

Class Number

2394

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Sharp 407

Description

Explore the principles and elements of motion applied to text and image using Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Learn to design with time, becoming familiar with basic principles of character animation and how they apply to motion design. Students are encouraged to realize their own vision, and not just replicate tutorials. This course is ideal for those looking to expand their skills from the land of print into the world of motion design. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Graphic Design or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2399

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Digital

Location

Online

Description

Learn to weave in this beginner's course, exploring traditional tapestry approaches such as interlocking, inlay, and shape-building alongside basket weave, twill, soumak, pile, rya, and twining techniques. Don’t have a frame loom? No problem. Your instructor will walk you through building your own. Through faculty guided discussion and presentations, you’ll also deepen your understanding of weaving's relevance in relation to material production, fine art, and craft. Presentations on contemporary handweavers supplement this studio experience. No experience is necessary.

Class Number

2411

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fiber and Material Studies

Location

Sharp 1213

Description

Art collectors and patrons play a major but often unseen role in art history and cultural heritage. From monarchs, and the Church, to anthropologists, and the mega donors of today’s museums, art has long been defined and supported through expansive webs of patronage and private funding. Making use of the Art Institute of Chicago’s collections and Chicago’s vibrant art community, this course explores the roots of art collecting and patronage, as well as investigating larger issues within collecting, including its ethical implications, repatriation, finance, psychology, and the personal perspectives of artists, curators, dealers, and collectors. Through lectures, discussions, and visits to museums, galleries, collections, studios, and EXPO Chicago: Chicago’s International Exposition of Modern and Contemporary Art, this course will provide not only an introduction to art history’s relationship to patronage but consider its present and future role, as well as how we can all be patrons of the arts.

Class Number

2392

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

280 Building Rm 106

Description

We tend to think that a work of art is a unique object. However, throughout history, artists have created works with the intention of reproducing them in limited quantities. These editioned artworks are crafted in a variety of media—prints, photographs, video, and artists’ books. This hybrid course will take advantage of collections generally not available to the public to study editions of these different art forms. Sample Schedule Week One: Introduction to Editions (remote) Weeks Two to Four: Jean and Steven Goldman Study Collection of Prints and Drawings (in-person), Prints and Drawings Then and Now (two remote sessions) Week Five: Joan Flasch Artists’ Book Collection (in-person) Weeks Six to Eight: Photography at AIC (in-person), Museum of Contemporary Photography (in-person), Photography Then and Now (remote) Week Nine: Video at SAIC and Beyond (remote) Week Ten: Summary of the Course (remote) This hybrid course will meet both in-person and online and includes a visit to the Jean and Steven Goldman Study Collection of Prints and Drawings scheduled outside the regular class meeting time.

Class Number

2393

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

280 Building Rm 106

Description

This introduction to typography is recommended for those pursuing a career in art and design fields, and those interested in the history and development of analog and digital type. The course functions as a working lab with multiple projects guaranteed to build confidence and knowledge in typographic usage. Students learn about typographic history, type dos and don?ts, type terminology, setting copy and display text, using style sheets, type styles, and handwriting and illustrative calligraphy. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Graphic Design or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2417

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 908

Description

How do we form an opinion about what we see around us? How do we make decisions that are relevant in the design world? In this course, students discuss, analyze, and discover the principles of design through a comprehensive exploration of successful projects envisioned by artists, architects, theorists, and authors. This course examines problem solving through the principles of design for a variety of project types, and will include lectures, readings, and individual assignments. Class discussions will explore new aesthetic trends and examine how ideas have evolved to address new issues.

Class Number

2395

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Sharp 1114

Description

In today's interconnected world, effective communication transcends cultural boundaries. Visual language has emerged as a universal tool for conveying information and captivating diverse audiences. Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of shapes, symbols, and icons, tracing their evolution through history. Investigate brand identity, the art of crafting logos, and how to harness the psychology of color to evoke emotions and convey messages. You'll also gain the skills to create compelling infographics and understand practical applications of Adobe Illustrator and stock images. Cultivate the ability to engage in formal critiques, enabling you to confidently present your ideas and projects and receive constructive feedback from peers and your instructor to refine your work and fuel your artistic growth. No previous design experience is needed. Bring your passion for creative expression and explore the dynamic world of visual communication.

Class Number

2419

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

This class is designed for students with prior drawing experience interested in investigating new subjects and themes while developing technical and conceptual skills through experimentation with a variety of methods and materials. Creative exploration will include exercises addressing scale, mixed-media processes, drawing formats, and series. Individual and group critique and discussions will support each student's personal direction. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Drawing or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2401

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

Online

Description

Joining fabrics to cover the body and create shelter has been a prized skill in the progress of civilization. Students will build on that tradition by learning fundamental seams and finishes used in modern day garment construction. Industry standards of sewing are emphasized and all techniques are taught and practiced. In addition to creating a personal library of seam samples, students will apply the techniques in two basic projects. The class will also discuss fabric characteristics and the proper copying and cutting of patterns. Once mastered, these techniques can be used to sew together garments from patterns, create original designs, or explore fabric as a medium for soft sculpture. No previous sewing experience is necessary. Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online.

Class Number

2408

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Online

Description

This course is designed for intermediate and advanced students with a desire to explore concept development and production skills in interior design. Do you want to learn how to remodel a kitchen or bath? Develop and refine the critical thinking skills necessary to find design solutions for existing spaces. Students will have the opportunity to work in analog and digital formats to produce work that is inspired by a broad range of artists and designers. Prerequisite(s): Digital Drawing: Objects and Space or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2423

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Online

Description

Explore an overview of printmaking techniques that don't require a dedicated print studio. This course is designed to give a brief overview of basic printmaking processes, such as monotype, relief, image transfer, and basic screen printing. Each technique will be explored through an introductory project, culminating in one final personalized project at the end of the course. Experiment with a variety of approaches to techniques and materials, and discover the creative and critical potential of the multiple within the broader field of contemporary art and visual culture. Artists of all disciplines, both with and without prior printmaking experience, are encouraged to join.

Class Number

2430

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Printmedia

Location

280 Building Rm 203

Description

This class is for students who want to learn how to use 3D modeling software specifically for a career in Interior Design. Learn how Autodesk AutoCAD, SketchUp, and SU Podium can help you bring your ideas into the digital space for potential clients and colleagues to view. We will explore how to create a workflow for your interior design projects which will include space planning, furniture modeling, and applying materials for viewing and rendering. This class will also include how to draw 2D floor plans; using 3D warehouse; customizing furniture and fixtures; and setting up views and rendering. Prerequisite(s): Digital Drawing: Objects and Space or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2396

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Online

Description

Students will focus on the proportional relationships of the human head and face to achieve naturalistic resemblance in their drawings. Instruction in the use of line, shape, light, and shadow will be explored to achieve believable volumetric form. Black and white as well as color materials will be investigated. A model will be present during each class session and a variety of drawing approaches will be demonstrated. Discussion and presentations on contemporary portraiture and group and individual reviews of work are also included.

Class Number

2402

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 124

Description

This course will provoke students to convey a compelling narrative through painting. We will experiment with various acrylic paints, mediums, surfaces, and techniques to develop a personal approach to image making. Through individual dialogue, class discussions, and critiques, students will receive feedback and direction on how to challenge their practice. We will investigate the works of artists like Mickalene Thomas, David Hockney, Christina Ramberg, Alex Katz and many others. Basic drawing and/or painting skills are useful, and non-representational artists welcome.

Class Number

2426

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

Online

Description

This course is an introduction to using SketchUp, a 3D modeling and visualization tool, for interior design. Learn how to model and modify rooms, furniture, cabinets, and other elements related to interiors. Any version of SketchUp can be used for the class, including Free, Shop, Pro, and Studio. Subscription information is available at sketchup.com/plans-and-pricing.

Class Number

2397

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Online

Description

This course is an introduction to using SketchUp, a 3D modeling and visualization tool, for interior design. Learn how to model and modify rooms, furniture, cabinets, and other elements related to interiors. Any version of SketchUp can be used for the class, including Free, Shop, Pro, and Studio. Subscription information is available at sketchup.com/plans-and-pricing.

Class Number

2398

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Online

Description

Through handwork and machine stitching, this course will cover a variety of traditional and experimental techniques for fabric embellishment and manipulation. Technical processes to be explored may include embroidery, cording, applique, trapunto, pleating, tucking, smocking, gathering, darting, and ribbon work. This course will reference historical and contemporary examples of these processes as research for inspiration. Students will create a sample book of foundation techniques and experiments, and produce a final project of their own design. Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online.

Class Number

2409

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Online

Description

Learn to paint form, space and atmospheric effects by focusing on depicting light with color. This course provides instruction in color theory as it pertains to painting practices with an emphasis on using color expressively. Paint application techniques are demonstrated and considerations for color effects, schemes, and properties are investigated in their practical application to each student's work. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Oil Painting or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2427

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

Online

Description

Open to students of all disciplines, this course will help you craft a portfolio that combines imagery, composition, text, and narrative to most successfully showcase your creativity, skills and passions. Perfect for certificate students preparing for Portfolio Review Day, as well as anyone interested in refining their portfolio for their website, residency or grant applications, or graduate admissions.

Class Number

2424

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interdisciplinary

Location

Online

Description

Investigate visual storytelling and drawing strategies through the contemporary art forms of comics and graphic novels. Explore a variety of illustrative approaches, such as writing, storyboarding, penciling, and inking/coloring. Building on this foundation, students learn research methods to develop ideas and produce projects that examine narrative structures, material choices, and the integration of text and image. Regular critiques, virtual visits to the Art Institute of Chicago, and exposure to contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers supplement the studio experience. Previous drawing experience is helpful but not required.

Class Number

2403

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

Sharp 1213

Description

Investigate visual storytelling and drawing strategies through the contemporary art forms of comics and graphic novels. Explore a variety of illustrative approaches, such as writing, storyboarding, penciling, and inking/coloring. Building on this foundation, students learn research methods to develop ideas and produce projects that examine narrative structures, material choices, and the integration of text and image. Regular critiques, virtual visits to the Art Institute of Chicago, and exposure to contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers supplement the studio experience. Previous drawing experience is helpful but not required.

Class Number

2404

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Illustration

Location

Sharp 1213

Contact Us

Continuing Studies staff members are available Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. –4:30 p.m. CT at 312.629.6170 or cs@saic.edu to answer your questions. We are here to help!