A teacher lecturing in front of a classroom.
Youth & Continuing Studies

Adult Programs

Request Info
View Brochure
Register Now

Register Now

Spring ACE Course Registration is Open

Tuesday, October 15 - Tuesday, December 31 12:00 a.m. CDT - 12:00 a.m. CST

Spring online and in-person courses for adults are open! See all courses and register now!

Adult Programs

Evening and Weekend Courses for Adults, Offered in Chicago and Online

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) invites you to be part of our diverse community of artists, designers, and scholars by enrolling in an Adult Continuing Education (ACE) course (or two) or one of our exciting certificate programs. Our adult art and design courses allow you to produce work based on your personal research, goals, and interests, while providing professional development, skill-building, and networking opportunities for both beginners and experienced artists.

You can take courses in person at our campus in Chicago’s Loop or enjoy the flexibility and convenience of learning online from wherever you are.

A person demonstrating how to use a 3D printer.

Student Benefits

ACE students enjoy access to SAIC’s world-class facilities and technology resources, including computer labs equipped with digital imaging software, use of SAIC’s Advanced Output Center (laser-cutting, 3D printing), Service Bureau (professional quality printing, binding, vinyl cutting) access to SAIC’s many research and learning databases including our Flaxman Library and Video Data Bank, free membership to LinkedIn Learning, parking discounts, and more. 

Two people conversing at a table.

Continuing Studies Faculty

Our world-renowned Continuing Studies faculty provide an environment where students can thrive and flourish while seeking personal enrichment, nurturing creative development, and learning new professional skills.

A student using a computer.

Adult Art and Design Courses

From Art History to Graphic Design, SAIC’s evening and weekend Adult Continuing Education (ACE) courses allow you to pursue your passion, learn new skills, and connect with an artistic community. 

A student using a paint brush to create a colorful picture on canvas.

Certificate Programs in Chicago

Explore a field of interest or prepare for further study in art and design with a specially-designed sequence of courses resulting in a professional credential from the nation’s most influential art and design school! 

An image of a group of people in the Art Institute of Chicago.

Degree Courses for Credit

SAIC offers hundreds of degree courses each fall and spring semester, as well as a variety of short-term courses and intensives in the summer and winter interim, many designed especially for students at large. Join our degree-seeking students, other college students, and artists and designers from Chicago and beyond in our creative, supportive community. 

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!