The International Academy of Design & Technology is a private, nonsectarian college accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. The college offers both Associate of Applied Science and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in fashion design. The bachelor's degree program typically requires four years to complete and includes more studio design courses than the two-year associate degree course of study. Both programs include instruction in fashion styling, illustration, textile artistry and patterning. Students showcase their skills in the academy's annual fashion show. Day, evening and weekend courses are available. Eligible students can benefit from federal financial aid programs while attending the school. After graduation, students can receive job-placement assistance from the college's Career Services department.
International Academy of Design & Technology
One North State St.
Suite 500
Chicago, IL 60602
312-980-9200
iadtchicago.edu
Founded in 1890, Columbia College Chicago is a private college that specializes in visual and performing arts programs. The school hosts more than 12,500 students and offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in fashion design. Among the courses required for the program are art history, drawing, two- and three-dimensional design, photography, garment construction, patterning, draping, textiles and computer-aided drafting. Students can also take courses in subjects like menswear design, millinery, jewelry, merchandising and ethnic design. All students complete a senior design project prior to graduation. The college offers students the opportunity to spend a semester studying at the University of East London in England. The school participates in federal and state financial aid programs and has accreditation through the The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Columbia College Chicago
600 South Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60605
312-663-1600
colum.edu
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago is a private, nonsectarian institution with an enrollment of more than 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The school grants a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in fashion design that includes classes in construction, illustration and computer-aided drafting. All baccalaureate students submit a portfolio for formal review prior to graduation. Internships are available, as well as study-abroad opportunities in 20 different countries. Also offered is a Master of Design degree in fashion, body and garment, as well as a shorter post-baccalaureate certificate in the field. Notable graduates from the school's fashion programs include designers Cynthia Rowley, Roy Halston Frowick and Lawrence Steele. Approximately 70 percent of all students receive some form of financial aid, according to the "2009 Barron's Profiles of American Colleges." The college is accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
37 South Wabash Ave.
Chicago, IL 60603
312-629-6100
saic.edu