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Graphic Design Classes Chicago

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Unlock your creativity and design skills with a wide range of graphic design classes in Chicago. From learning the basics of Photoshop to mastering the art of typography, these courses will help you develop your artistic abilities and create stunning visual content for professional or personal use.

19 classes have spots left

Graphic Design Certificate

Noble Desktop - Virtually Online

Learn the Adobe Creative Cloud apps used by professionals and master graphic design concepts to create stunning modern designs and build an impressive portfolio that showcases your skills to prospective clients or employers.

(372) All levels 18 and older
$2,995

14 sessions

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Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

Noble Desktop - Virtually Online

Enhance your photos and create stunning graphics with this comprehensive Photoshop course. From removing unwanted elements to making precise selections, you'll master essential techniques to transform your images. Unleash your creativity and learn from industry experts at Noble Desktop.

(372) All levels 18 and older
$975

3 sessions

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Adobe InDesign Bootcamp

Noble Desktop - Virtually Online

Master the art of page layout and design with Adobe InDesign at Noble Desktop. Create stunning books, magazines, and advertisements while learning essential techniques for professional typesetting. Elevate your design skills and unleash your creativity with this comprehensive InDesign course.

(372) All levels 18 and older
$975

3 sessions

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Explore Graphic Design Private Group Events

Explore private group events and team building activities ranging from cooking to art, escape rooms, trivia, and more

Explore Graphic Design Private Group Events
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Adobe Illustrator Bootcamp

Noble Desktop - Virtually Online

Unlock your creativity with industry-standard design software. Master the tools and techniques of Adobe Illustrator to create stunning graphics, logos, and more. Elevate your design skills with Noble Desktop's Illustrator Bootcamp.

(372) All levels 18 and older
$975

3 sessions

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Photoshop Part 1

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 420 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL

Learn the basics of image manipulation and the Photoshop work area in this comprehensive course. Discover how to retouch images, create layered images, and use masks to enhance your design skills. Join us at Computer Training Source, Inc. to take your Photoshop skills to the next level.

(21) Beginner 18 and older

Photoshop Part 2

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 420 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL

Learn advanced techniques in Photoshop to create stunning montages, colorize images, add special effects, and automate tasks. Enhance your skills in raster and vector images, layer techniques, video editing, and project management. Level up your Photoshop abilities with this comprehensive course.

(21) Intermediate 18 and older

Web Professional Program

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 420 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL

Master the art of web design and development with a comprehensive program covering essential tools like WordPress, HTML, CSS, and more. Earn industry-recognized certifications and refine your skills through project-based learning, with live classes available both in-person and remotely.

(21) All levels 18 and older
$16,445
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Adobe Illustrator Core Skills: Level 1

ONLC Training Centers @ Midwest Plaza South, Oak Brook, IL

Master the essential skills of Adobe Illustrator with this comprehensive course at ONLC Training Centers. Learn how to navigate the interface, create illustrations using shapes and paths, enhance your artwork with color and type, and organize your designs with layers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user looking to fill in the gaps, this class will take your Illustrator skills to the next level.

(7) Beginner 18 and older
$795

2 sessions

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Photoshop Part 3

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 420 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL

Learn advanced techniques in Photoshop for print production and web design. Discover how to retouch images, correct lens distortion, and create stunning composites. Master the art of color management and prepare your images for professional printing. Unleash your creativity with 3D printing capabilities.

(21) Advanced 18 and older

Adobe Photoshop Core Skills: Level 1

ONLC Training Centers @ 1320 Tower Rd, Chicago, IL

Master the essential skills of Adobe Photoshop with this comprehensive course. Learn how to navigate the interface, retouch photos, adjust color and tone, work with selection tools, use layers and masks, and create stunning typography. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this course will help you elevate your Photoshop skills to the next level.

(7) All levels 18 and older
$795

2 sessions

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InDesign Part 1

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 1821 Walden Office Sq, Schaumburg, IL

Learn how to create professional page layouts and designs with InDesign in this comprehensive course by Computer Training Source, Inc. Develop the skills to customize documents with color, swatches, and styles, manage page elements, add tables, and prepare documents for deployment. Master the essential tools and features needed to deliver stunning printed and interactive documents.

(21) Beginner 18 and older

Adobe InDesign Core Skills: Level 1

ONLC Training Centers @ 1320 Tower Rd, Chicago, IL

Master the essential skills of Adobe InDesign and create professional layouts with this comprehensive course from ONLC Training Centers. Learn how to navigate the interface, set up documents, work with text and images, apply styles, and export your projects. Whether you're a beginner or looking to fill in knowledge gaps, this course is designed for you.

(7) Beginner 18 and older
$795

2 sessions

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Illustrator Part 1

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 1821 Walden Office Sq, Schaumburg, IL

Learn the fundamentals of Adobe Illustrator and gain the skills needed to create stunning vector graphics. This comprehensive course covers everything from manipulating paths and applying color to working with text and preparing your designs for print and web. Take your design skills to the next level with Illustrator Part 1.

(21) Beginner 18 and older

InDesign Part 2

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 1821 Walden Office Sq, Schaumburg, IL

Expand your knowledge of Adobe InDesign with advanced features and collaboration tools in this comprehensive course from Computer Training Source, Inc. Learn how to prepare documents for multiple formats, manage advanced page layouts, build complex paths, and create dynamic documents. Take your InDesign skills to the next level and enhance your professional design abilities.

(21) Intermediate 18 and older

InDesign Part 3

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 1821 Walden Office Sq, Schaumburg, IL

Enhance your graphic design skills with our advanced InDesign course, covering everything from modifying graphics and creating interactive elements, to working with advanced text techniques and managing complex documents. Join us at Computer Training Source, Inc. to take your InDesign skills to the next level.

(21) Intermediate 18 and older

Illustrator Part 2

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 1821 Walden Office Sq, Schaumburg, IL

Take your Illustrator skills to the next level with advanced path manipulation, appearance controls, and creative effects. Learn how to create complex illustrations, manipulate colors and swatches, format text, and prepare your artwork for deployment. Elevate your design game with this comprehensive course.

(21) Intermediate 18 and older

Adobe InDesign Core Skills: Level 2

ONLC Training Centers @ 1320 Tower Rd, Chicago, IL

Enhance your Adobe InDesign skills with Level 2 training from ONLC Training Centers. Learn advanced techniques, shortcuts, and valuable tips and tricks to improve your workflow. Gain expertise in working with objects, text, typography, color, styles, graphics, tables, transparency, and more.

(7) Intermediate 18 and older
$795

2 sessions

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Photoshop 3

Chicago Botanic Garden @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Chicago, IL

Elevate your Photoshop skills to new heights with our project-focused advanced class. Delve into HDR, abstract art, displacement mapping, and focus stacking as you refine your digital artistry. Prerequisite: Photoshop 1 and 2 or instructor approval.

(122) Advanced 18 and older
$312

4 sessions

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Illustrator Part 3

Computer Training Source, Inc. @ 1821 Walden Office Sq, Schaumburg, IL

Learn advanced Illustrator techniques and streamline your workflow with Illustrator Part 3 at Computer Training Source, Inc. This course focuses on content management, real-world design techniques, and creative uses of effects and graphic styles. Elevate your design skills and create stunning illustrations.

(21) All levels 18 and older
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Magicavoxel: From Modelling to Rendering

Evanston Art Center @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Are you looking to learn 3D modeling but don’t know where to begin? Are you a fan of the 8-bit aesthetic of Minecraft? Do you find full-on industrial CG programs too overwhelming, and wish for a workflow that is more suitable for one-person operation? This 12-week introductory studio class is made for you! I will teach you how to create your own voxel models and environments from scratch and to effectively render in MagicaVoxel to create your...

(83) Beginner 16 and older
No upcoming schedules
$500

12 sessions

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Reviews for Graphic Design Classes in Chicago

Graphic Design Classes in Chicago are rated 4.5 stars based on 605 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

    Reviewed by Anh T. on 11/21/2019
    Very enthusiastic instructor. Class was fun!
  • Illustrator Part 2

    Reviewed by Evan W. on 8/26/2019
    Great instructor and Phenomenal class, I'd take part 3 but only Thursday dates and i need a weekend!
  • Adobe Illustrator Bootcamp

    Reviewed by Chelsea M. on 9/6/2018
    This class was great! It was great to learn 3 lessons per session. The instructors were very sweet and helpful!
  • Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

    Reviewed by Matthew J J. on 6/14/2018
    The class gave a clear and concise overview of all Photoshop functions along with hands-on exercises to experience them in real time. The course is smartly put together and Michele (our instructor) was a delight!
  • Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

    Reviewed by Blair H. on 4/13/2018
    Absolutely love Ethan! He was an excellent professor and I am so happy to have had the opportunity to learn from him.
  • Adobe InDesign Bootcamp

    Reviewed by drucie Belman on 1/25/2014
    I really liked this class. The teacher kept it interesting (even amusing!), he was very organized and up beat. I really liked the way the class was structured, the course book is great, the exercises are clear and varied. I would definitely take another class at Noble Desktop.

Discover the Best Graphic Design Classes in Chicago

Graphic design is a unique and fascinating field that is defined as “planning and projecting ideas” using visual graphics, text, and other design elements. This skill can be used in a myriad of different careers. For example, Rasmussen University states that graphic design helps when producing items like professional ads, book covers, logos, signs, business cards, software interfaces, posters, infographics, web layouts, and even product labels. 

The goal behind all graphic design projects is to communicate a message directly to the consumer, such as a business’ professionalism when providing services or products. Skilled graphic designers are often in high demand and can make a consistent and rewarding salary. Thankfully, many graphic design classes are available in Chicago, a city that also features some of the biggest and most successful advertising and graphic design firms in the nation.

Best Graphic Design Classes & Schools in Chicago

While many people learn graphic design on their own, it’s best to take a professional training program to streamline your education. Why? First, these programs can teach you the basics and slowly progress your skills until you’re ready to start looking for jobs. Furthermore, they often provide completion certificates or college degrees to make your job hunt easier. 

On that note, here are the best Chicago-based graphic design schools and classes in the area.

DePaul University

DePaul University is a popular university in Chicago that provides graphic design bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Their courses cover advertising, book covers, web layout, motion graphics, photography, title design, visual design, and general art creation. Consistently rated as one of the best colleges in Chicago, DePaul is a good choice if you want a hands-on education in a religious environment, as DePaul is a Catholic university that includes faith-based learning.

University of Illinois Chicago 

The University of Illinois Chicago is acclaimed for strong programs in multiple fields, including graphic design. Their graphic design bachelor’s program focuses on teaching students the fundamentals of this skill, including the importance of communicating abstract ideas using concrete images, symbols, and text. When finished, you can pursue a master’s degree or start looking for jobs in this field, depending on how far you want to advance in your career.

Computer Training Source, Inc.

Computer Training Source, Inc. is a Chicago school that focuses on inexpensive and effective tech-based bootcamps. You can book their classes on CourseHorse, a Noble Desktop affiliate that provides a diverse platform that lets you book learning programs quickly and inexpensively. In this way, you can get an immersive graphic design experience, build a portfolio, and start looking for jobs. Here are a few of their most popular graphic design training options.

Photoshop Part 1 

Photoshop Part 1 is a Computer Training Source, Inc. class in the popular Chicago suburb of Schaumburg. This class includes six lessons, including basic Photoshop operation and more advanced subjects, like layering art and managing files effectively. Suitable for beginners, this program also includes Photoshop Part 2 and Photoshop Part 3. Complete these courses to further your Photoshop understanding and receive completion degrees that confirm your skills.

Illustrator Part 1

Illustrator Part 1 is a Computer Training Source, Inc. class that focuses on teaching Illustrator, an important graphic design software used by many designers. This course includes seven lessons that gradually immerse you in this program and its many diverse uses. The first lesson includes basic design principles, while later ones introduce more advanced skills. When finished, you can take Illustrator Part 2 and Illustrator Part 3 to complete your training.

ONLC Training Centers 

ONLC Training Centers is a national tech-training company that provides IT education using a hands-on teaching method with in-person professors who improve your learning experience. Their Chicago location includes Adobe InDesign Core Skills: Level 1, a beginner-level program on the West Loop in Chicago that teaches Adobe’s popular InDesign program. With a small class size of about seven, you should get more personalized support with this program.

Noble Desktop 

Noble Desktop is a NYC-based training firm that also provides online courses for learners across the nation. Their program includes support from a skilled professor with years of experience in graphic design, as well as benefits like a free course retake if you fail your certification exam or just want to learn more. Noble Desktop also provides one-on-one mentoring to help you progress further and master graphic design skills even more effectively. They offer an immersive Graphic Design Certificate program for students looking to start a new career as digital artists.

Chicago Industries That Use Graphic Design

Chicago has a diverse array of different high-quality industries where graphic designers can find jobs. These include many tech-based markets that often use digital programs to produce intricate graphics, animations, and even advertisements. Here are a few of the best options to consider for your first graphic designer job, as well as potential employers in market:

  • Video Game Production: While Chicago isn’t necessarily well known for its gaming studios, companies like Jackbox Games, Lightstream, Phenix, Babaroga, and Wishbone Club all operate out of the city. These smaller firms often employ graphic designers to produce high-quality and attractive game graphics, marketing materials, and much more.
  • Social Media Marketing: Like many major cities, Chicago has multiple social media marketing firms that need graphic designers. These firms include Fresh Content Society, Evergreen, Sybmiont Group, The Music Group, and Bright Bright Great. Businesses like these employ graphic designers to produce eye-catching social media posts. 
  • Printing: Chicago is a major nexus for printing, including firms like Chicago Print Group, Forest Printing, Urban Imaging, Allied Print & Copy, The Printing Store, and M&G Graphics. These businesses all need skilled graphic designers who can create attractive designs for customers, including logo, clothing, and branding materials. 
  • Animation: Animation firms like The Studio Bridge, Dogstudio, Kelxfy, Microdeft, Attack Studios, Eon Eden, UO Solutions, Band Landgraf Consulting Group in Chicago hire graphic designers to produce attractive graphics for movies, training films, and television shows. Start your career at one of these companies before moving to a bigger employer.
  • Web Design: The Chicago area has multiple companies focused on web design projects, like high-quality websites and attractive digital designs. Firms like TechAvidus, Plego Technologies, Digital Silk, and Unico Connect employ graphic designers alongside software engineers to create high-quality and effective sites that convert sales.

Graphic Design Jobs & Salaries in Chicago

Here are a handful of graphic designer jobs and salaries you might find in Chicago, including a listing of their job duties:

  • Photo Editor: Photo editors carefully update and edit photos to make sure that they’re attractive and engaging for the user. In Chicago, they make a base salary of about $45,000 every year on average, though they may make closer to $50,000, depending on the employer.
  • Senior Graphic Designer: Senior graphic designers are professionals with more experience who often lead design teams to produce better and more effective results. They make about $85,000 per year in Chicago, which is an excellent wage for this profession.
  • Packaging Designer: As a packaging designer, you’ll create graphics that ensure a company’s branding matches its packages. You can earn about $63,000 per year on average in this profession, which is a good salary for someone living in the Windy City.
  • Web Designer: A web designer carefully creates websites by integrating photos, text, and other content for their clients. In Chicago, a web designer makes an average yearly salary of $57,000, though some earn up to $75,000 with more experience.
  • Art Director: Art directors help manage a firm’s art design, including their marketing materials, though some may also work in art galleries and photo firms. They make an average yearly salary of $64,000 in Chicago, though may earn as high as $89,000 in some markets.
  • UX Designer: A user-experience or UX designer focuses on user interfaces and other interactive elements on websites, software, and mobile apps. They can make about $77,000 annually on average in Chicago, though higher-earning designers make closer to $112,000.

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