Why does the Chicago Portfolio School’s program only last one year when other schools make you sign up for two years?
Our goal is simple: to help you get a job. To get a job, you need a portfolio of superior samples. Nothing less will do. (But nothing more is required.) Therefore, we believe a program with the right intensity, the right assignments, and the right instructors, can accomplish our goal in 12 months without cutting corners or sacrificing quality.
For instance, we only give the kind of assignments that will lead to good samples. We make sure concepts are truly worthwhile before we ask students to comp them into final form. We don’t believe in spending time on assignments that aren’t directly related to improving your book. In other words, we simply don’t waste time; yours or ours.
When are the classes held?
Students will have between 5 and 7 classes each quarter, including computer seminars. Some classes meet in the afternoon @ 2pm but most classes meet Monday through Thursday @ 5pm and 6:30pm.
How long have you been in business?
We have been teaching a full schedule of portfolio classes for six years. Many of our students are now working as art directors, designers, and copywriters in agencies around the country.
Do you help us get a job once we finish the Program?
Absolutely. We have an experienced, connected placement advisor that helps arrange interviews in Chicago and elsewhere around the country. (You will have friends in the business.)
Of course, students share the responsibility of getting interviews and finding a job. Students do their part (make a great book, for one thing) and we do our part. We post a version of your book online to make it easy for agencies and recruiters to see your work. But, in the end, the quality of your book is the single most important factor in landing a job.