What is the Best Course to Learn SketchUp?

There are many different options for learning SketchUp, and it can be difficult to know which one is best. Some classes only take a few days, while others take weeks. There are also classes designed to fit a variety of experience levels, ranging from beginner to advanced. Another thing that varies widely is class content. Some classes have a narrow focus, while others are extremely comprehensive. Keep reading for more information about some of the most common class options and how they differ from one another.

What Is SketchUp?

First released in 2000, SketchUp is an application that is used to create a variety of different 3D models. It is used by professionals in many design fields including interior design, architecture, video game design, mechanical engineering, and landscaping. The application has changed ownership a number of times; in 2006 it was acquired by Google, and then in 2012 it was acquired by Trimble Inc. There is a free version of SketchUp, and also multiple paid versions.

What Can You Do With SketchUp?

When you use SketchUp, you can start with basic shapes and use the many tools included in this application to create 3D models of buildings, landscapes, furniture, and other objects. You can add details to your models, such as lighting, shadows, and textures, to make them look realistic. In addition, the application gives you access to many pre-built models that can help you create more quickly and also customize your designs.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Course

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a SketchUp course including your existing experience, your budget, how you plan to use your SketchUp training, and what type of learning format best suits your learning style.

How Much Experience Do You Have?

An important factor in choosing a SketchUp class is matching the class to your experience level. If you don’t know anything about SketchUp or 3D modeling, then it’s probably a good idea to look for a class designed for beginners. When you take a beginner class, the instructor will start with foundational skills and make sure you have mastered those before moving on to more advanced concepts. In contrast, if you already have some SketchUp experience, then an intermediate or advanced course might be a better option. With a more advanced class, you’ll be able to skip beginner concepts that you have already mastered. 

What Is Your Budget?

Most prospective students also need to consider budget. SketchUp costs can vary considerably. The most expensive way to learn this application is usually as part of a college degree, which can cost thousands of dollars a year. This learning path is also the longest. A shorter and less expensive option is to enroll in a bootcamp or certificate course. These types of classes usually take weeks or months rather than years to complete and cost significantly less than a college education. They cover a wide range of different skills and run in an accelerated format so that you can learn as quickly as possible. Overall, they are designed to get you career-ready in a relatively short amount of time. Bootcamps and certificate courses can cost anywhere from about $1,000, up to $30,000. There are also many shorter SketchUp class options. Most aren’t as comprehensive as bootcamps or certificate courses, but they can give you some basic skills and get you started, and they often only cost a few hundred dollars.

How Do You Plan to Use Your SketchUp Training?

When you’re trying to decide which SketchUp class is best, it can be a good idea to think about how you want to use your SketchUp training. If you’re just trying to get an overview of this program or you’re not sure what your goals are, then a shorter class might be a good option. Most short classes only take a few days to complete, and they typically cost a lot less than longer classes. They can be a good way to introduce yourself to the topic without committing a lot of time and money. On the other hand, if you want to use SketchUp professionally, a comprehensive, career-focused class might be a better option. A comprehensive course will start with the basics, and take you up to an advanced level. It is also likely to include a variety of projects where you can develop practical experience. In addition, many career-focused classes come with career assistance. For instance, you’re likely to get help building your portfolio. Other types of assistance might include tips on building a resume and interviewing for a job, one-on-one mentoring sessions, or access to internships. 

What Training Format Works Best For You?

A final consideration in choosing a course is the training format. You’re likely to find a number of different training options, and the decision about which one works best will depend on your personal learning needs and style. Some people prefer in-person classes because they find this to be the most engaging format. They also enjoy the fact that they can interact with their instructor and other students face-to-face. It can also be easier to stay focused on the lesson when you attend school in person because you’re in an environment that is dedicated to learning and has minimal distractions. In addition, it can be easier for the instructor to see whether or not you need additional help. However, in-person learning is also the least flexible format. You have to commute to a classroom, and you’re limited to courses that take place in your geographic area. If you’re looking for a more flexible option, then you may find that a live online class is a good choice for you. Live online classes take place in real-time, but rather than traveling to a classroom, you attend by simply logging in via computer. With a live online class, you are still able to ask questions and get immediate feedback, however, you can attend from any location that you want. A potential downside to online learning is that you’ll need your own computer equipment and software.

Learn SketchUp with Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop is based in New York City and offers a wide variety of design classes. It has both short courses that can help you quickly master the basics, and longer, more comprehensive programs that are intended to get you career-ready in a relatively short amount of time. These classes are offered in person at its Manhattan facility or in a live online format, where you can sign on from any location in the world. Noble Desktop is licensed by the New York State Education Department. All courses include a certificate of completion and the option of a free retake within one year.

If you want to learn SketchUp, you can enroll in Noble’s SketchUp Pro Bootcamp, which is a multi-day class designed to get you ready to start building 3D models. It covers a wide range of topics including interface navigation, drawing shapes, adding volume, and transforming elements. You’ll also learn to use the SketchUp Warehouse. This class includes plenty of hands-on practice. No prior experience is required, other than the ability to use a computer.

If you’re interested in 3D modeling, Noble also offers a number of live AutoCAD classes. These include Level 1, 2, and 3 classes. There is also an AutoCAD Masterclass, which covers beginner, intermediate, and advanced skills. Finally, Noble offers an AutoDesk Certification Program. This course includes three AutoCAD classes in addition to six hours of private tutoring. You’ll finish the course by taking the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design & Drafting exam. Proctoring and a free retake are included with your tuition.