Illinois Design Schools and Colleges

Degree Programs: Graphic Design, Game Design, Computer Art & Design, Web Design, Fashion Design, Animation, Interior Design, Architectural Design...
Major Cities: Aurora, Berwyn, Bloomington, Bolingbrook, Buffalo Grove, Burbank, Chicago, Cicero, Elgin, Joliet, Naperville, Peoria, Rockford, Springfield, Waukegan...

Looking for an exciting career in fashion design, interior design, graphic design, or game design? Put your creative ideas to work today by pursuing a degree program in the developing areas of web design, animation and special effects, or visual design at one of Illinois’ design schools. Through 2018, careers in the art and design industries are projected to increase by 13.0% as demand for design services continues to increase from advertisers and design firms. Exciting news for any aspiring designer!

The best restaurants. Shopping for magnificent miles. Illinois is the perfect locale for the budding design student! Illinois’ schools for design and art offer an array of educational programs and degrees. Popular majors include industrial design, architecture, interior design, graphic design, photography, and fashion design. As the field continues to grow and expand, graduates in the design field will find increasing opportunities in entertainment, education, and other creative industries in and around the Chicago region.

Illinois has long been known for its deep passion for the arts and there are multitudes of world class museums from which design students can draw inspiration. The state of the art Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield is the largest presidential library in the country and numerous museums in the city of Chicago are considered some of the best in the world. These include the John G. Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. Beyond the city limits, the Chicago art scene continues with galleries and university spaces, many of which can be found in the nearby suburbs.

Whether you are looking for a degree in graphic design, commercial art and illustration, drafting, or photography, get creative with your career at Designschools.com.

National Programs: The following schools are accepting students from across the country.

The Art Institutes

The Art Institutes

Bachelor's | Associate's | Certificate | Diploma

The Art Institutes offers associate, bachelor and certificate programs that specialize in the creative arts and design. With over 40 locations in major cities throughout North America, you'll get the competitive edge to succeed as a creative professional - in your field of interest!

Select a Campus: Arlington, VA | Atlanta, GA | Austin, TX | Boston, MA | Charleston, NC | Charlotte, NC | Chicago, IL | Cincinnati, OH | Dallas, TX | Decatur, GA | Denver, CO | Detroit, MI | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Fort Worth, TX | Houston, TX | Indianapolis, IN | Jacksonville, FL | Kansas City, KS | Las Vegas, NV | Los Angeles, CA | Miami, FL | Milwaukee, WI | Minneapolis, MN | New York, NY | Nashville, TN | Orange County, CA | Philadelphia, PA | Phoenix, AZ | Pittsburgh, PA | Portland, OR | Raleigh, NC | Salt Lake City | San Bernadino, CA | San Diego | San Francisco, CA | Schaumburg, IL | Seattle, WA | Sunnyvale, CA | Tampa, FL | Tucson, AZ | Vancouver, BC | York, PA

» Also learn about The Art Institutes ONLINE PROGRAMS





About: Welcome to The Illinois Institute of Art - Chicago. Whether you are looking for a career in fashion, culinary arts, media arts, interior design or visual communications, we offer creative education in one of the world's premier cities. Our faculty provides instruction based on their expertise working in their fields. And the city of Chicago provides a unique backdrop. With two locations downtown, our college offers the opportunity not only to learn in the classroom, but also through the many events and experiences that come with immersing yourself right in the middle of downtown Chicago. Request Information



About: At The Illinois Institute of Art - Schaumburg we provide quality higher education for students seeking careers in applied arts, media, and design professions. With a balanced focus in the intellectual and creative elements of studies, our programs provide a comprehensive art and design education that can prepare our students with the tools and experiences to begin their creative careers. Request Information



American Academy of Art

Chicago, IL US

About: The American Academy of Art continues to build on it's excellent reputation of educating successful, professional artists. The Academy believes an artist must develop mastery of materials and understand how to depict the world in a realistic style. Since 1923, the American Academy of art has prepared students to enter leading galleries, advertising agencies and design and animation studios. The Academy is located at 332 S. Michigan Avenue in the heart of Chicago's education and museum district. The campus includes the Bill L. Parks Gallery with revolving exhibitions and the Irving Shapiro Library collection of specialized art resources. The American Academy of Art maintains a Career Services office to assist students and graduates with their job search. Request Information



About: The International Academy of Design and Technology in Chicago offers a career-oriented curriculum and enthusiastic staff with professional experience in your field. The Academy is equipped with today's industry standards, which can provide you with the skills you need to succeed. We also offer career-planning services for graduates to help you find the right job. Request Information



About: Since our founding almost 70 years ago, our sole objective has been to prepare graduates for an active interior design role in today's industry - while keeping an eye on tomorrow's human needs for responsible interior environments. We are focused on professional education in the process of creating interiors in all concentrations and institutional interior design. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle.
Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle.
Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle.
Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



About: Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. And with day, night and online schedules*, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle.
Based in Denver, Colorado, since 1953, Westwood has 17 campuses across six states, plus our online campus. Key to our success is a faculty of working professionals. Drawing on personal experience and insights, they give students real-world perspectives to empower them to meet the workforce needs in in-demand employment fields.

*Online programs not available in all states, e.g. TX, MA, MN, and IL. All programs not available at all campuses. Request Information



Tribeca Flashpoint

Chicago, IL US

About: Flashpoint, The Academy of Media Arts and Sciences, offers two-year programs in Film & Broadcast, Recording Arts, Game & Interactive Media, and Animation & Visual Effects.
Designed and taught by industry professionals, our hands-on, immersive courses erase the boundaries between classroom and real-world, teaching students the latest tools and techniques while developing high professional standards. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



About: Since 1969, ITT Technical Institutes have provided career-oriented degree programs to more than 33,000 students in 29 states. Boasting more than 75 locations, ITT Technical Institutes offer associate and bachelor degrees in top-notch technology fields such as computer engineering, computer drafting, network systems, web development, multimedia, software, and security. ITT Technical Institutes also offer online bachelor degree programs as well as an online MBA program. While rooted in technical instruction, programs also develop students¿ skills in communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Flexible class scheduling and year round classes provide convenient options for students, while a considerable amount of lab time give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment to complement traditional learning. Extensive career services help students prepare for great jobs long before graduation. Request Information



Drawing Workshop

Chicago, IL US



Hinton's Industrial Arts School

Chicago, IL US



About: The Institute of Design (ID) at Illinois Institute of Technology is an international leader in teaching systemic, human-centered design. Graduate studies at ID focus on the development of advanced design methods and theories, and on the practical demonstration of their utility. ID offers two professional degrees: the Master of Design and the Master of Design Methods, as well as a research degree, the PhD, which was the first doctoral program in design in the United States. Admission to both the professional education and the research programs is highly competitive. Request Information