School of the Art Institute of Chicago

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s Youth & Continuing Studies division offers the highest quality continuing education in art and design for students of all ages, from children as young as 6 through adults seeking professional development or personal enrichment. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago at 36 South Wabash Avenue, the program provides access to world-class art education resources, renowned faculty, and the adjacent Art Institute of Chicago museum.
Children ages 6-9 can participate in Multi-Arts Camps that combine creativity with fun through week-long summer sessions featuring exciting projects and daily visits to the Art Institute of Chicago museum. These camps encourage children to discover, explore, and imagine in unique ways while experimenting with painting, drawing, mixed-media, sculpture, printmaking, performance, digital art, and more. Each camp session features a different theme, allowing enrollment in multiple weeks throughout the summer.
Middle School students ages 10-13 access specialized programs designed to focus on their interests and bring ideas to life through subjects unavailable elsewhere, including Animation, Architecture, Comics, Painting, Sustainable Practices, Video Game Design, and more. These courses provide age-appropriate challenges while introducing students to professional-level tools and techniques.
The Early College Program serves high school students ages 14-18 through both in-person Chicago classes and online courses, with juniors and seniors eligible to earn actual college credit. The program includes regular term classes during evenings and weekends, plus intensive Summer Institute options offering 1-week, 2-week, and 4-week immersive experiences. On-campus housing is available in residence halls in downtown Chicago for Summer Institute participants. The Online Summer Institute allows students from around the globe to create portfolio-quality work while earning college credit through dynamic virtual demonstrations, group critiques, and personalized faculty meetings.
The Youth & Continuing Studies division emphasizes material exploration, skill development, personal research, and individual creative vision across all age groups. Students produce work based on their interests while receiving expert guidance and constructive feedback. The programs create opportunities for portfolio development, artistic experimentation, technical skill building, and creative confidence.
With courses offered year-round including fall, winter, spring, and summer terms, SAIC Youth & Continuing Studies provides flexible options for students balancing education with other commitments. Online courses expand access beyond Chicago, connecting students globally while maintaining SAIC’s high educational standards. Financial aid and payment plans help ensure accessibility for diverse populations.