School of Visual Concepts Seattle

Areas of Study

Since day one (which in SVC's case was more than 35 years ago), we've been helping people put together portfolios so they can land top jobs in these fields: Graphic Design, Advertising Art Direction, and Advertising Copywriting. For the past decade or so, we've also offered classes in Web Design. Our focus, as always, is to have first-rate working professionals teach you. These are people who truly know what's going on and, in many cases, are in a position to offer their best students a shot at a job.

Portfolio Development and Software Classes

These classes are what SVC has been known for over the past four decades. We bring in top-notch working professionals to show you the ropes of creating portfolio pieces or learning new design and web software. Classes are taught in the evenings so you don't have to give up your current paycheck to start getting ready for your new career.

Certificate Programs

To earn a Certificate of Completion, students can request that their portfolios be reviewed for Certification. Once each quarter a panel of top professionals is assembled to review student portfolios, and if this panel agrees that your work meets the highest standards, then SVC will issue you a certificate of completion. And, yes, it is suitable for framing.

Professional Development Workshops

For people already in the field, SVC offers an ongoing series of one-day workshops on a variety of topics, including creative firm business practices such as managing creative people, marketing basics, presenting creative work, and persuasive business speaking and writing. Other workshops touch on design software and special creative focus areas, such as package design, environmental design, and sustainability.

How to apply and register

Certificate program students are encouraged to call 206.623.1560 or email SVC to set up an introductory interview. Students taking evening classes on an a la carte basis are also welcome (but not required) to come in for an interview. In all cases, no prior art or design experience is required. Some classes do have prerequisites, however, which are listed with each course description.

To register for a class or workshop, simply click on the "Register now" button located near the course title. If you're with a company and you're interested in registering more than one person at a time, please call 206.623.1560 or email SVC and we'll guide you through the steps and let you know about special discounts for corporate customers.