Pre-College Art & Design Classes for High School Students, Offered In Chicago & Online

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago offers high school students multiple ways to engage their creative interests and explore a variety of media. Our programs for high school students include residential summer art programs in Chicago, commuter courses for local students, and online courses that investigate a wide variety of disciplines. 

A student with a sketchpad inside a museum.

Early College Program Summer Institute (ECPSI)

Available on-campus and online, our intensive pre-college summer arts programs bring together an extraordinary array of high school students from all over the world for the opportunity to create portfolio-quality work. Students will make connections with our world-renowned faculty, experience SAIC’s amazing facilities, and earn college credit. For on-campus students, housing is available in our state-of-the-art residence halls in the heart of downtown Chicago, and evening programming and skill-building workshops help you gain new skills and explore new ideas.

Two Asian students looking at an artwork

Early College Program (ECP) Courses

Taking place during fall, spring, and summer, our ECP courses investigate drawing, animation, fashion, and more. Students who have completed their sophomore year have the option to enroll for college credit. 

Students view and discss artwork.

College Arts Access Program (CAAP)

CAAP is a three-year college bridge program for Chicago Public Schools students who apply during their first year in high school and participate from sophomore through senior year. Students apply for admission to the program, and accepted participants receive full financial support, covering course tuition, meals, transportation, and art supplies.

Contact Us

Office Hours
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

 

Phone: 312.629.6170