Noncredit Courses

Upcoming Sessions

Spring Registration Opens October 15th

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.

Winter Intensive Courses this January

Adult Continuing Education offers 1-Weeklong and Weekend Intensives that provide artists, designers, and travelers opportunities to advance their practice in one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world: Chicago. Emerging and established artists will enjoy the kinship and camaraderie that is quickly established when working with their peers. Travel to Chicago for an art intensive this January! 

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

Interested in furthering your artistic development? Learn more about combining ACE courses to earn a Certificate.

Title Catalog Instructor Schedule

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

2389

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 819

Description

Explore the illustration process as your instructor guides you from ideation to freehand sketching and ultimately creating a final illustration. Experiment with a variety of materials and styles, including traditional and digital illustration techniques. As you begin to craft your illustrative point of view throughout the course, you will also learn more about the landscape of contemporary illustration. This course will not focus on the development of observational drawing skills. All levels are welcome, even those with no prior drawing experience.

Class Number

2397

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Illustration

Location

Sharp 1214

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

2399

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Sullivan Center 1241

Description

Exploring the galleries of the Art Institute of Chicago museum, this course takes advantage of one of the largest and most significant collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Gauguin, Manet, Monet, Renoir, Seurat, Toulouse-Lautrec, and van Gogh, among others. Through lectures and discussions, students will develop the ability to look closely at, analyze, and discuss the works presented as they learn about the period in which it was created.

This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue.

Art Survey at the AIC: Impressionism and Post-Impressionism fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates.

Class Number

2368

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

2390

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

2400

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Online

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.

This course meets outside the gift shop at the benches, entering the museum from Michigan Avenue.

Art Survey at the AIC: Ancient to PreModern fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates.

Class Number

2369

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

AIC Front Desk

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

2401

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

Location

Sullivan Center 1241

Description

Students in this course create, manipulate, and sew patterns that cover the lower half of the female form. Students learn to draft a basic skirt and pant to develop professional slopers, build waistbands, and pattern pockets and fly fronts. Prerequisite(s): Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals or equivalent experience.

Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online.

Class Number

2383

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 702

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

2379

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 124

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

2392

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

MacLean 819

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) or mirrorless camera with manual functions; no point and shoot cameras.

Class Number

2408

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Photography

Location

280 Building Rm 120

Description

Students will develop an understanding of software interfaces as they learn to translate 2D drawings into 3D models, working with digital drawing tools including Autodesk AutoCAD and SketchUp, and a rendering solution.

Students are responsible for their software when this course is offered online.

Class Number

2374

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

MacLean 917

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

2380

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 315

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

2375

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Sharp 402

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

2376

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

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

2388

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fiber and Material Studies

Location

Sharp 1217

Description

During her short life, Paula Modersohn-Becker (1876-1907) charted her path in a bold style that foreshadowed Expressionism. Today, she is a posthumous feminist icon, and her place in art history is being recognized. The course will consider her figurative work, self-portraits, landscapes, and still lives in the context of her biography and art history. Sessions will take place in the exhibition and the Art Institute's modern galleries.

Class Number

2456

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

MacLean 818

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

2394

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

Students explore traditional and contemporary approaches to the watercolor medium, including gouache. A variety of techniques, papers and alternative painting surfaces, as well as mixed media processes are introduced. Intended for students with basic drawing skills as well as those with previous painting experience, the course is structured to encourage experimentation with scale, subject matter and formats. Critiques and discussions will support and encourage each student's personal direction.

Class Number

2403

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

Online

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

2377

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Design

Location

Sharp 1216

Description

This course is designed for artists who are interested in learning printmedia techniques, but do not necessarily have access to a print studio. Technical processes covered may include transfers, monoprinting, linoleum stamps, digital and handmade repeat patterns, and digital printing on fabric. These processes can be transferred easily from the classroom to the artist¿s workspace. Class discussions will focus on how repetition or manipulation of an image affects its meaning. The processes addressed will allow students to experiment with their existing drawings, photographs, or designs. This class is suitable for artists of all disciplines, both
with and without prior printmaking experience.

Class Number

2409

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Printmedia

Location

280 Building Rm 308

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

2384

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 705

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

2385

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 705

Description

In this course, students learn to assemble garments that cover the upper half of the female form. Industry standard techniques and tips are presented for sewing together a pattern for a button-down shirt with sleeves and a lined, zippered shell. Students leave with the ability to transfer their skills to commercial patterns or their own designs. Prerequisite(s): Sewing Techniques: Fundamentals or equivalent experience.

Note: A sewing machine is required if taking this course online.

Class Number

2386

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 706

Description

Whether penning the Next Great American Novel (poetry collection, or memoir), or preparing a writing sample for a fellowship, grant, or MFA application, you will gain insightful feedback workshopping new or existing projects. Each class will provide you the opportunity to receive and provide personalized critique with an eye towards revision. Weekly readings will consist of students work, supplemented by essays on craft and excerpts from Kamau Brathwaite, Sloane Crosley, Joan Didion, Maggie Nelson, and Rebecca Solnit, among others.

Class Number

2410

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Writing

Location

Sharp 1217

Description

Working from the nude model, students will learn to draw the human figure from direct observation. The essential elements of life drawing, including anatomy, proportion, volume, composition, gesture, and the accurate and expressive use of line and tone will be addressed. While the primary focus will be on representational drawing skills, students will also investigate figurative abstraction and conceptual approaches. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Drawing or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2381

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

280 Building Rm 124

Description

In this course students are introduced to traditional and non-traditional materials and methods used in water-based painting. Projects include painting from observation and the imagination, using current artist practices and historical examples. Working from a variety of subjects, students may use ink, acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media within their works while building skills in color, tone, volume, contrast, and temperature. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago provide inspiration. Students should have previous drawing experience, but no painting experience is necessary.

Class Number

2404

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

Sharp 1216

Description

Create eye-popping, high-quality artwork. You'll start with traditional media and then translate your ideas digitally in Procreate. Instruction will focus on learning the software and concept development as you create original characters and environments. This course will not focus on the development of observational drawing skills. All levels are welcome, even those with no prior drawing experience. Students will need an iPad to run Procreate.

Class Number

2382

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Drawing

Location

Online

Description

Create eye-popping, high-quality artwork. You'll start with traditional media and then translate your ideas digitally in Procreate. Instruction will focus on learning the software and concept development as you create original characters and environments. This course will not focus on the development of observational drawing skills. All levels are welcome, even those with no prior drawing experience. Students will need an iPad to run Procreate.

Class Number

2398

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Illustration

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

2378

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

2402

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interior Architecture

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

2367

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interdisciplinary

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

2493

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Interdisciplinary

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. In this asynchronous course, there are no set meeting times¿you learn when it's convenient for you. Weekly activities include readings, video demonstrations, tutorials, online discussions, assignments, and critiques. Receive personalized feedback from your instructor on each assignment and throughout the creative process, as needed.

Class Number

2395

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

Learn to identify, develop, and produce an integrated brand identity system that goes beyond the traditional logo. From rough sketches to final digital files, you will develop the practical components to create a public-facing brand while exploring the role of visual metaphor and styling in creating its personality. Analysis of effective identity systems through written and video case studies from master designers will provide insight into the myriad approaches to creating a strong visual brand identity that stands out in the crowd. Prior knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite is recommended.

Class Number

2396

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Graphic Design

Location

Online

Description

Students are introduced to both traditional and contemporary painting materials and methods through demonstrations and in class projects. Methods of transferring drawing ideas to painting; preparation of grounds and supports; traditional and non-traditional tools for painting, mediums and application techniques; and the connection between concept or subject matter to material choice are covered. Lectures, individual instruction, and group critiques will be used to develop insight into the relation between form and content. Prerequisite(s): Introduction to Drawing or equivalent experience.

Class Number

2405

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 320

Description

Contemporary Art in Chicago is a hands-on initiation into Chicago's vibrant visual art scene. You will visit museums and galleries throughout the city and get the unique opportunity to step behind the scenes into artists' studios and collectors' homes, where you will see works in progress, ask questions, and get to know the real people who make up Chicago's art world. Discussions and conversations with artists and curators provide context and intimacy to this exploration of the creative fabric of our city.

NOTE: This course meets outside of a classroom setting and will travel to different locations throughout Chicago. Students should know that some class sessions will require physical activity, including walking up to three blocks, taking public transportation, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods.

This course fulfills the Art History requirement for the Drawing and Painting certificates.

Class Number

2370

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

MacLean 501

Description

This course introduces the materials, methods, and tools of oil painting while students develop observational skills. Demonstrations on stretching canvas, laying out a palette, working with various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide students with the fundamentals of the medium and a strong foundation for future work.

Class Number

2406

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 320

Description

This course introduces the materials, methods, and tools of oil painting while students develop observational skills. Demonstrations on stretching canvas, laying out a palette, working with various paint application techniques, and color mixing provide students with the fundamentals of the medium and a strong foundation for future work.

Class Number

2407

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Painting

Location

280 Building Rm 321, 280 Building Rm 323

Description

This course examines the fundamentals of designing a fashion collection. Students will explore a fusion of conceptual inspiration and technical apparel design and apply real-world practices of marketing plans, competitive research, and costing. Students will develop critical tools to appreciate and contextualize fashion design and better comprehend issues such as labor practices, size inclusivity, and sustainability.

Class Number

2387

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Fashion

Location

Sullivan Center 701

Description

From cave paintings to contemporary art, this speed-date with a complex discipline will consider the history of art and its missing narratives. The course will also try to answer the age-old question about an artwork: 'What does it mean?'

Week 1: Thinking globally, looking locally
Week 2: Why is it called The Canon?
Week 3: How we discuss race, class, and gender - and how we don't
Week 4: Modernism and Contemporary Art
Week 5: Your Art History

Class Number

2371

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

Online

Description

While contemporary art reflects the current moment, its concepts and processes often merit further examination. This course will consider the differences between modern and contemporary art and discuss the impact of works made in the recent past, as well as those being made today.

SAIC Continuing Studies¿ ¿Art History from the Ground Up¿ can provide a foundation for some of the issues raised in this class, but is not required.

Class Number

2372

Credits

1

Department

Adult Continuing Education

Subject

CS Art History

Location

Online

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!