Looking to pursue a graphic design program in Chicago? This comprehensive list of courses is exactly what you need. Read on for a detailed review of online and on-campus programs with insights on the curriculum, intensity, and duration.
As digital media continues to dominate the online landscape, the demand for skilled graphic designers has reached unprecedented levels. Businesses, ranging from small enterprises to established corporations, increasingly rely on visual communication to engage and captivate their target audience. In such a dynamic environment, enrolling in a graphic design course can serve as your gateway to a plethora of lucrative opportunities.
While numerous institutes offer graphic design upskilling programs, navigating through the options to find the one that aligns best with your goals can be challenging. Whether you are committed to pursuing a career in the field or wish to explore and experiment, factors like preferred learning pace and the convenience of studying from home versus the benefits of a structured curriculum with ample support are crucial considerations. If you find yourself in the middle of this decision-making process, our comprehensive list of the best graphic design programs in Chicago, encompassing both online and on-campus options, is here to help you out.
Here’s a brief overview of our featured programs:
- University of Illinois
- Northeastern Illinois University
- Columbia College Chicago
- American Academy of Art College
- DePaul University
- North Central College
- Loyola University
- Roosevelt University
Intrigued? Let’s dive right in!
1. Online Courses
If you’re looking to gain some formal training in graphic design but are not keen on attending classes on campus, here are a few courses you can consider.
1. General Assembly: Visual Design Short Course
The Visual Design Short Course from General Assembly is an all-encompassing program with a comprehensive curriculum and global networking opportunities. Although the course is focused on visual design, it covers key aspects like typography, imagery, colour theory, and much more, making it suitable for those interested in graphic design. The course also equips students to create an industry-relevant portfolio.
Pros:
- A comprehensive curriculum covering web design, motion graphics, interaction design, and design ethics.
- Project-based learning that contributes to portfolio building
- Access to a global network of 97k+ alumni for professional exposure
Cons:
- Not suitable for those interested in a purely graphic design program
- Students with no background in software operation are required to take up tutorial classes simultaneously.
Duration:
The course duration is 8 weeks
Price:
The course is priced at $3500
Learn More: General Assembly Visual Design Short Course
2. Noble Desktop: Graphic Design Certificate
A leading Design and Coding school, Noble Desktop has emerged as a popular upskilling platform both in the virtual and offline modes. The company is best known for its short-term programs that cover software applications with foundational knowledge.
Ideal for beginners looking to get started in the field, the Graphic Design Certificate Course offers hands-on experience in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, equipping students with a robust portfolio. The curriculum also includes essential design concepts like colour theory, typography, composition, design theory, and more.
Pros:
- A comprehensive curriculum that includes both theory and practical training
- Classes are conducted by industry experts in a live project-based learning environment
- Students receive guidance for portfolio building
Cons:
- The batch size is limited to 8-10 students per batch
- The course duration might be insufficient to get a hang of graphic design fundamentals and theory
Duration:
The course is available in different durations, with the shortest course spanning a month.
Price:
The course is priced at $2995
Learn More: Noble Desktop Graphic Design Certificate
3. School of the Art Institute of Chicago: Graphic Design Certificate
Regarded as one of the finest art schools in the US, SAIC has established its roots as a leading art school in the international market. The institute boasts a rich legacy and is associated with the Art Institute of Chicago.
The Graphic Design Certificate course is a noncredit program under Adult Continuing Education that offers interested students a platform to explore the field with a special emphasis on print media. The program introduces students to graphic design basics while also familiarising them with Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.
Pros:
- The course provides students with a comprehensive and holistic exposure to graphic design
- Students get to create high-quality portfolios that can help further their careers in the field
- Students have the opportunity to work across disciplines for portfolio-building
Cons:
- Coursework may not always be scheduled in an online format.
- The course does not come with a Job Guarantee or Placement Support
Duration:
The course duration is approximately 150+ hours.
Price:
The course entails an estimated cost of $2600, which includes a mandatory fee of $100 along with an additional $625 per studio course. Students are required to enrol in four studio courses as part of the program.
Learn More: School of the Art Institute of Chicago
4. Ledet: Creative Design Bundle
Ledet is an authorised training provider best known for its hands-on courses in AutoDesk, Google, and Adobe. The centre primarily focuses on instructor-led classes pertaining to the marketing and advertising industry.
The Creative Design Bundle is a two-week program that includes training on non-consecutive dates in eight key graphic design software. These include Photoshop Intro, Photoshop Advanced, Acrobat, Illustrator Intro, Illustrator Advanced, Indesign Intro, Indesign Advanced, and Indesign Tablet Publishing.
Pros:
- This is a short-term course best suited for designers looking to fine-tune their software knowledge.
- The course is taught over 15 non-consecutive days and includes 8 separate 2-day classes.
Cons:
- This is a software-oriented course and does not include foundational training in design principles
- The course duration might be insufficient for a beginner to gain proficiency in the software applications covered.
- A rather expensive course given its curriculum and duration
Duration:
The course duration is 15 days; includes 8 separate 2-day classes
Price:
The course is priced at $5495
Learn More: Ledet Creative Design Bundle
5. ONLC Training Centre: Adobe On-Demand Bootcamp
A renowned training centre in North America, ONLC brings with it over 40 years of experience as a leading IT training company in the country. The centre mostly focuses on fostering a healthy classroom learning experience and has branches in various locations.
The Adobe On-Demand Bootcamp is an introductory software course that strives to equip students with a basic understanding of Creative Cloud. The curriculum also includes a dedicated Core Skills section that incorporates the important features and skills needed to operate Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.
Pros:
- A comprehensive course that provides holistic training in Creative Cloud
- The course is taught in both online and offline formats
- This is a self-taught course, allowing students the flexibility to learn at their own pace
Cons:
- The course is primarily targetted at beginners or self-taught designers looking to upskill in software skills
- The curriculum is technical and software-oriented.
Duration:
The course spans approximately 6 months
Price:
The course is priced at $995.
Learn More: ONLC Adobe On-Demand Bootcamp
2. On-Campus/Offline Courses
If you’re open to committing to 3 to 4-year-long graphic design courses in Chicago that require you to attend college, read on for some options that will suit you.
1. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): BDes in Graphic Design
Ranked 13th in the Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2024, UIC is one of the leading institutes in both Chicago and the United States. The School of Design at UIC, in particular, is known for its thriving design community, access to some of the best research, and vibrant culture.
Their Bachelor of Design is a four-year degree program that takes the learner through every aspect of graphic design. The program begins with modules on Art History, typography, images, and design for digital media. The last year takes this foundational knowledge a step further with a capstone project, entrepreneurial product development, and communication design practice.
Pros:
- The program curriculum familiarises students with key aspects like information aesthetics and world culture alongside a deep dive into graphic design as a field.
- The capstone project is an essential part of the entire program ensuring students get hands-on experience
- UIC is a leading institute that can open windows to excellent opportunities for students.
Cons:
- This is a degree program that requires long-term time and financial commitment
- Given the institute’s legacy, enrolling on a program could be quite competitive and might require some experience in the field.
Duration:
The course duration is 4 years.
Price:
Enrolment to the course proceeds with a mandatory application fee of $60 for both domestic and international students. However, for further details on the tuition, it is advisable to get in touch with the university. You can also go through their Tuition Catalog for further understanding of the fee structure.
Learn More: School of Design UIC
2. Northeastern Illinois University: BFA in Graphic Design
With its educational history dating back to 1867, Northeastern Illinois University has today established itself as a premier institute that offers over 40 undergraduate degrees and 50 graduate programs. In addition to its expansive course offerings, Northeastern University is also one of the most diverse public comprehensive universities in the Midwest.
The Graphic Design Major offered at the institute takes up an employment-oriented approach with the curriculum preparing students to excel in fields like branding, marketing, and web development along with traditional graphic design fields. The program also comes with an integrated internship aspect, ensuring a smooth entry into the industry.
Pros:
- Career-oriented course that prepares students to excel in various roles
- An integrated internship program ensures students gain relevant industry experience
- Northeastern University is an established institute, ensuring world-class education and faculty
Cons:
- The course is only available in an offline format
Duration:
The course duration is 4 years.
Price:
In-state tuition is priced at $430.95 per credit hour while out-of-state tuition costs $861.90 per credit hour.
Learn More: Northeastern Illinois University BFA in Graphic Design
3. Columbia College Chicago: BA in Graphic Design
Ranked 124 out of 167 Regional Universities Midwest, Columbia College Chicago makes an excellent choice if you wish to foster creativity and benefit from a strong curriculum. The Institute offers a range of programs in different creative fields and boasts a distinguished faculty.
The BA Graphic Design program is an expansive course that seeks to develop a strong visual response in students through intelligent use of typography, aesthetics, and research. The course structure hence relies on building a design-oriented mindset and incorporates key topics like visual culture, packaging design, web design, and experimental typography.
Pros:
- The course takes an analytical approach to teaching graphic design
- Columbia University allows students to pursue both a minor or double major
- Sessions on HTML, CSS and backend technologies are also offered for web design
Cons:
- The course does not come with any kind of career support
- The course is only available in an offline format
Duration:
The course spans 4 years and comes with 48-hour credits
Price:
The course tuition is $33,000 but overall expenses might amount to approximately $55,000.
Learn More: Columbia College Chicago Graphic Design Program
4. American Academy of Art College: BFA in Graphic Design
A private art school in Chicago, the American Academy benefits from a rich legacy and impressive alumni network with names like Kanye West, Alex Ross and Jill Thompson on their list. The institute's history with art and design ensures students benefit from industry-relevant curriculum and excellent exposure.
American Academy’s BA in Graphic Design utilises this rich history through a carefully curated project-based approach where students are encouraged to learn through hands-on application. This unique approach also allows students to master project management, ensuring they are ready for the industry.
Pros:
- The holistic curriculum also includes modules on film, psychology, anatomy, wellness and lighting technique.
- The program comes with an internship period in visual communication or interactive design for market exposure.
- The institute has a rich legacy and alumni pool which can help students network and further their career.
Cons:
- The institute has a limited enrollment seat of 112 undergraduates.
- The course is only available in an offline format.
Duration:
The course duration is 4 years
Price:
1-semester full-time program for 12-16 credits= .$19,320.00
Learn More: American Academy of Art College: BFA in Graphic Design
5. DePaul University: BFA in Graphic Design
A leading private college located in the heart of Chicago, DePaul University has today emerged as a popular choice with over 300 undergraduate and graduate program offerings. The Institute prides itself on its quality of faculty and small batch sizes that facilitate effective learning
The Graphic Design major at DePaul University follows a uniquely designed curriculum that covers the foundational, conceptual, creative, and technical design principles. Students are encouraged to apply their learnings through real-world projects and illustrations. Animation, motion graphics, production design, typography, and visual design are the key topics covered.
Pros:
- The institute is equipped with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure like an interactive design lab, as well as public exhibition and critique spaces.
- Graduates get access to work opportunities with leading companies given the institute's strong faculty.
- The course is comprehensive with an expansive curriculum
Cons:
- Only a few topics are covered online. Students are required to join in-campus to pursue the course
- Although networking opportunities are available, no dedicated career support/assistance is offered.
Duration:
The course duration is 4 years.
Price:
The annual tuition is $43,665
Learn More: DePaul University BFA in Graphic Design
6. North Central College: BFA in Graphic Design
Established in 1861, North Central College is an independent college pushing the envelope for liberal arts and science. The institute also celebrates a strong alumni network and an impressive faculty. The Graphic Design program is designed to cultivate a design-oriented mindset while equipping students with the right tools and techniques.
Pros:
- The curriculum offers exposure to allied fields like 3D design, 2D design, animation, motion graphics, and photography
- The course incorporates a cross-disciplinary approach to graphic design
- The institute provides job and internship opportunities to students upon successful completion
Cons:
- The course is only available in an offline format
Duration:
The course duration is 4 years
Price:
Students are required to pay a $100 tuition deposit to reserve a seat. However, interested learners are advised to contact the admissions team for a detailed overview of the tuition.
Learn More: North Central College BFA in Graphic Design
7. Loyola University Chicago: BA in Visual Communication
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Loyola is a private Jesuit Catholic University that has campuses in Rome and Italy in addition to its Chicago Branch. The institute offers an array of degree programs and fosters a healthy learning environment for students.
At the moment Loyola University offers an Undergraduate Program in Visual Communication that prepares students to enter the workforce through training in areas like graphic design history, theory and practice. The curriculum is expansive and incorporates topics like brand and corporate identity, advertising, web design, motion graphics, interface design, and much more.
Pros:
- Students can gain experience in various forms of visual design including the basics of visual form, colour, typography etc.
- The curriculum is designed to equip students with technical skills for both print and digital visual design
- The institute offers career support in the form of a capstone project, portfolio building, and internship experience.
Cons:
- This is a degree program that requires long-term time and financial commitment
- The program is offered in an offline mode.
Duration:
Students are required to complete a total of 45 credit hours
Price:
Full-time semester tuition for 12-21 credits is $25,135.00. Since the course requires 45-hour credits, an additional $392.00 would be charged per credit hour. This is over and above the university fees.
Learn More: Loyola University Chicago: BA in Visual Communication
8. Roosevelt University: Bachelor’s in Graphic Design
Offering over 120+ Degree Programs, Roosevelt University offers an excellent platform for learners to gain industry-relevant experience. The Graphic Design program undertakes a project-based learning approach that is designed to help students build a comprehensive portfolio. Print, digital imaging, interactive/web design, and sound production are a few key topics covered during the program.
Pros:
- Project-based curriculum offers hands-on experience to students
- Project work also allows learners to build a relevant portfolio by the end of the course
Cons:
- The course does not come with dedicated career support/assistance
- The course is only available in an offline format
Duration:
The course duration is 4 years
Price:
The price for a full-time program of 12-18 credits per semester is $21,000 per Academic Year. A part-time per credit hour rate is charged for over 18 credit hours.
Learn More: Roosevelt University Bachelor’s in Graphic Design
Next Steps:
We hope our article on the best Graphic Design Courses in Chicago was able to help you make an informed decision and kickstart your design journey. We also highly recommend checking out our student work to get a deeper insight into how upskilling programs can help in building your portfolio as a designer. This Campaign Project by AND Learner Sreya Sara Binoy could be a great starting point.
In case you need further assistance, here are some of our resources you can consider:
- Watch this session by design veteran and AND’s Academic Head, Prachi Mittal, and our Course Lead, Soumya Tiwari.
- Talk to a course advisor to discuss how you can transform your career with one of our courses.
- Pursue our Graphic Design courses - all courses are taught through live, interactive classes by industry experts, and some even offer a Job Guarantee.
- Take advantage of the scholarship and funding options that come with our courses to overcome any financial hurdle on the path of your career transformation.
Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.
