Early College Program Online Summer Institute Courses
Early College Program Online Summer Institute
Online classes take place Monday through Friday in Central Time. Times will be adjusted for international students outside of the US to ensure meeting times work for your time zone. On average, students will join their peers in a virtual classroom and will navigate the virtual resource library and work on studio projects on a schedule that works best for them. Faculty will work with each student to determine a one-on-one advising schedule and assist students as they work in a more self-driven way on their projects. Virtual classroom meetings and critiques will be complemented by visiting artist lectures, workshops, admissions presentations, and portfolio reviews. Note that faculty will have office hours and will be available to assist students during designated independent studio work time and will help students make meaningful connections with peers.
Students are required to have their own computer. If enrolled in Animation and Video Projects, Design Projects, or Visual Communication Design, you will be provided with an Adobe Creative Cloud license for the duration of the course. We recommend that you have a laptop that meets the minimum requirements for Adobe Creative Cloud.
| Title | Catalog | Instructor | Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (001) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (001) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (001) | Oona Taper | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (001) | Oona Taper | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Sculpture: Materials and Methods | 402 (001) | Laleh Motlagh | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionThis course is a rigorous exploration of contemporary sculptural practices, emphasizing critical relationships between form, material, and content. Students use research, instructor feedback, and peer support to realize their unique visions in three dimensions. Discussions of materials, processes, and hands-on practice empower students to move from concept to completed work, generating a better understanding of how sculpture is situated within the context of culture and society at large. Projects allow for investigating traditional and contemporary materials and methods, including installation, carving, casting, fabrication, mold making, and construction. Demonstrations of SAIC's digital tools, field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and artist presentations supplement the studio experience. Artwork and/or performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in sculpture is helpful, but not required. SAIC will provide basic equipment. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Sculpture: Materials and Methods | 402 (001) | Laleh Motlagh | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionThis course is a rigorous exploration of contemporary sculptural practices, emphasizing critical relationships between form, material, and content. Students use research, instructor feedback, and peer support to realize their unique visions in three dimensions. Discussions of materials, processes, and hands-on practice empower students to move from concept to completed work, generating a better understanding of how sculpture is situated within the context of culture and society at large. Projects allow for investigating traditional and contemporary materials and methods, including installation, carving, casting, fabrication, mold making, and construction. Demonstrations of SAIC's digital tools, field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and artist presentations supplement the studio experience. Artwork and/or performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in sculpture is helpful, but not required. SAIC will provide basic equipment. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Sculpture: Materials and Methods | 402 (001) | Laleh Motlagh | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionThis course is a rigorous exploration of contemporary sculptural practices, emphasizing critical relationships between form, material, and content. Students use research, instructor feedback, and peer support to realize their unique visions in three dimensions. Discussions of materials, processes, and hands-on practice empower students to move from concept to completed work, generating a better understanding of how sculpture is situated within the context of culture and society at large. Projects allow for investigating traditional and contemporary materials and methods, including installation, carving, casting, fabrication, mold making, and construction. Demonstrations of SAIC's digital tools, field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and artist presentations supplement the studio experience. Artwork and/or performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in sculpture is helpful, but not required. SAIC will provide basic equipment. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Sculpture: Materials and Methods | 402 (001) | Laleh Motlagh | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionThis course is a rigorous exploration of contemporary sculptural practices, emphasizing critical relationships between form, material, and content. Students use research, instructor feedback, and peer support to realize their unique visions in three dimensions. Discussions of materials, processes, and hands-on practice empower students to move from concept to completed work, generating a better understanding of how sculpture is situated within the context of culture and society at large. Projects allow for investigating traditional and contemporary materials and methods, including installation, carving, casting, fabrication, mold making, and construction. Demonstrations of SAIC's digital tools, field trips to the Art Institute of Chicago, and artist presentations supplement the studio experience. Artwork and/or performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and/or video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in sculpture is helpful, but not required. SAIC will provide basic equipment. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (002) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (002) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (002) | Oona Taper | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (002) | Oona Taper | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
DescriptionIn this course, students are introduced to concepts and processes utilized to produce digital 2D animation. They turn drawings into moving images using compositing, layering, and collaging. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and others. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>NOTE: Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software during class. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hour projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Advanced Projects | 403 (001) | Joseph David Belknap, Sarah Jean Belknap | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionGrounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Advanced Projects | 403 (001) | Joseph David Belknap, Sarah Jean Belknap | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionGrounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Advanced Projects | 403 (001) | Joseph David Belknap, Sarah Jean Belknap | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionGrounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Advanced Projects | 403 (001) | Joseph David Belknap, Sarah Jean Belknap | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 15, 2026 - June 26, 2026 |
DescriptionGrounded in an interdisciplinary approach, students in this advanced course explore various creative strategies contemporary artists use to develop new ideas and create strong, portfolio-quality work. This course introduces students to new media, materials, and methods to expand skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, video, sound, and performance. With extensive faculty guidance and peer support, students will develop individual projects, learn to clearly articulate their ideas, and produce work that fully represents them as artists. Artist presentations, critiques, and field trips supplement studio coursework. This course is intended for students with previous experience and a deep interest in the visual arts who want to add new work to their portfolio and are comfortable working independently from specific assignments using interdisciplinary practices. Artwork and performances that are temporary or cannot be easily transported will be documented through photography and video.<br><br>NOTE: Previous experience in art/design and the ability to work independently are required. SAIC provides basic equipment for this course. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Illustration and Motion Graphics | 403 (001) | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
|
DescriptionIn this course, students bring drawings and characters to life using digital imaging (compositing, layering, collaging), illustration, and motion graphics. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and After Effects. Projects integrating color, line, form, image, and text include digital drawings, manipulated still images, animation, and multimedia screen-based works. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>*NOTE* Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Illustration and Motion Graphics | 403 (001) | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
|
DescriptionIn this course, students bring drawings and characters to life using digital imaging (compositing, layering, collaging), illustration, and motion graphics. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and After Effects. Projects integrating color, line, form, image, and text include digital drawings, manipulated still images, animation, and multimedia screen-based works. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>*NOTE* Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Illustration and Motion Graphics | 403 (001) | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
|
DescriptionIn this course, students bring drawings and characters to life using digital imaging (compositing, layering, collaging), illustration, and motion graphics. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and After Effects. Projects integrating color, line, form, image, and text include digital drawings, manipulated still images, animation, and multimedia screen-based works. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>*NOTE* Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Illustration and Motion Graphics | 403 (001) | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM June 29, 2026 - July 10, 2026 |
|
DescriptionIn this course, students bring drawings and characters to life using digital imaging (compositing, layering, collaging), illustration, and motion graphics. Students are encouraged to experiment while building skills in software programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and After Effects. Projects integrating color, line, form, image, and text include digital drawings, manipulated still images, animation, and multimedia screen-based works. Trips to the Art Institute of Chicago and local galleries/studios, artist presentations, and group critiques supplement the studio experience. <br><br>*NOTE* Basic drawing and computer experience required. Previous experience in animation or with Adobe Creative Suite is helpful. SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring a digital camera, tablet, and/or laptop for homework and after-studio hours projects. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
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!