Early College Program Summer Institute Courses
Early College Program Summer Institute Courses
Registration opens November 1.
Merit scholarships and financial aid are offered!
Summer 2026 Session Dates
Session 1: June 15–26, (no class June 19)
Session 2: June 29–July 10, (no class July 4)
Session 3: July 13–24
Session 4: June 29–July 24, (no class July 4)
Session 5: July 27–31
ECPSI classes are Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. providing you with an immersive studio experience. On Tuesday/Thursday evenings from 6:00–8:00 p.m. you will participate in exciting workshops designed to help you gain new skills and explore new ideas. Exhibition of student work will take place on the final day of each session. Note: Figure Drawing, Figure Painting, Painting, and Drawing courses may use nude models hired by SAIC.
| Title | Catalog | Instructor | Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (001) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM June 16, 2025 - June 27, 2025 |
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 16, 2025 - June 27, 2025 |
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 16, 2025 - June 27, 2025 |
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 16, 2025 - June 27, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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: Digital Photography | 402 (001) | L Koo | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
DescriptionThis course introduces students to basic photography skills while developing a personal, creative vision. Students study manual camera functions, exposure, lighting, digital workflow and output, and the creation of high quality prints using Adobe Bridge and Photoshop software, Canon inkjet printers, and high resolution laser printers. Contemporary art concepts and issues are examined as students explore the work of significant photographic artists, and consider the ideas and obstacles of communication through lens-based images. Presentations and discussions on contemporary and historical photography, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago's world-renowned photographic print study room, and regular critiques supplement the studio experience. This is a great course for students who have little experience in photography or experience making photographs using the auto functions on their camera, and want to gain a deeper understanding of the technical and conceptual forces behind lens-based imagery. <br>*NOTE* Students must provide their own digital SLR camera with manual functions (no point-and-shoot). SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring their own laptop with Adobe Bridge/Photoshop for after-studio hours and homework. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Photography | 402 (001) | L Koo | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
DescriptionThis course introduces students to basic photography skills while developing a personal, creative vision. Students study manual camera functions, exposure, lighting, digital workflow and output, and the creation of high quality prints using Adobe Bridge and Photoshop software, Canon inkjet printers, and high resolution laser printers. Contemporary art concepts and issues are examined as students explore the work of significant photographic artists, and consider the ideas and obstacles of communication through lens-based images. Presentations and discussions on contemporary and historical photography, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago's world-renowned photographic print study room, and regular critiques supplement the studio experience. This is a great course for students who have little experience in photography or experience making photographs using the auto functions on their camera, and want to gain a deeper understanding of the technical and conceptual forces behind lens-based imagery. <br>*NOTE* Students must provide their own digital SLR camera with manual functions (no point-and-shoot). SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring their own laptop with Adobe Bridge/Photoshop for after-studio hours and homework. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Photography | 402 (001) | L Koo | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
DescriptionThis course introduces students to basic photography skills while developing a personal, creative vision. Students study manual camera functions, exposure, lighting, digital workflow and output, and the creation of high quality prints using Adobe Bridge and Photoshop software, Canon inkjet printers, and high resolution laser printers. Contemporary art concepts and issues are examined as students explore the work of significant photographic artists, and consider the ideas and obstacles of communication through lens-based images. Presentations and discussions on contemporary and historical photography, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago's world-renowned photographic print study room, and regular critiques supplement the studio experience. This is a great course for students who have little experience in photography or experience making photographs using the auto functions on their camera, and want to gain a deeper understanding of the technical and conceptual forces behind lens-based imagery. <br>*NOTE* Students must provide their own digital SLR camera with manual functions (no point-and-shoot). SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring their own laptop with Adobe Bridge/Photoshop for after-studio hours and homework. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| Summer Institute: Digital Photography | 402 (001) | L Koo | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
DescriptionThis course introduces students to basic photography skills while developing a personal, creative vision. Students study manual camera functions, exposure, lighting, digital workflow and output, and the creation of high quality prints using Adobe Bridge and Photoshop software, Canon inkjet printers, and high resolution laser printers. Contemporary art concepts and issues are examined as students explore the work of significant photographic artists, and consider the ideas and obstacles of communication through lens-based images. Presentations and discussions on contemporary and historical photography, visits to the Art Institute of Chicago's world-renowned photographic print study room, and regular critiques supplement the studio experience. This is a great course for students who have little experience in photography or experience making photographs using the auto functions on their camera, and want to gain a deeper understanding of the technical and conceptual forces behind lens-based imagery. <br>*NOTE* Students must provide their own digital SLR camera with manual functions (no point-and-shoot). SAIC provides computers with the appropriate software, but students are also encouraged to bring their own laptop with Adobe Bridge/Photoshop for after-studio hours and homework. |
Class Number |
Credits |
DepartmentSubjectLocation |
| SI: 2D Animation | 402 (002) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 July 07, 2025 - July 18, 2025 |
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 (003) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
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 (003) | Oona Taper | Monday through Friday
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
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 (003) | Oona Taper | Tues/Thurs
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
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 (003) | Oona Taper | Tues/Thurs
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM July 21, 2025 - August 01, 2025 |
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 |
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!