Where to Find SketchUp Classes

If you’ve decided that you want to learn SketchUp, your next step is probably going to be finding a class. You can find SketchUp classes in a variety of places; some college degree programs include SketchUp training, many professional training centers run SketchUp classes, on-demand platforms have courses, and you can also find a number of free resources online. In choosing a class you’ll need to consider a number of different factors such as how much time you can devote to learning, your budget, and your schedule. Keep reading for more information about some of the different types of SketchUp class options that exist.

What Is SketchUp?

SketchUp is an application that is used to create and manipulate different types of 3D and 2D models. Architectural engineer Brad Schell and software developer Joe Esch created SketchUp because they saw the need for a more accessible 3D modeling program that was easier to use than the software that existed at that time. Since it was released in 2000, SketchUp has gained many new features. Its most recent version includes a new graphics engine, with increased responsiveness. This application is owned by Trimble Inc.

SketchUp Design Class Options

There are multiple options for learning SketchUp, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. They include colleges, professional training centers, and on-demand websites. There are also free online training resources.

Colleges

Many colleges offer programs that include SketchUp training. This application is often used in design fields like architecture, interior design, and landscape design, so if you pursue a degree in one of these fields, your education may include learning to use SketchUp. One of the advantages of learning SketchUp as part of a college degree is that you’ll receive a very comprehensive education. In addition, most employers value college degrees. A downside is that earning a college degree is expensive and time-consuming. Some colleges also offer stand-alone SketchUp classes, either in-person or in a live online format. You’ll find these classes at both four-year colleges and community colleges.

Noble Desktop and Other Professional Training Centers

Professional training centers like Noble Desktop have become a popular way to learn both single applications like SketchUp and more comprehensive skills like design. These types of schools are typically focused on getting students career-ready, by covering all the skills that they’ll need, and including plenty of hands-on practice. Unlike college programs, the courses offered by these types of schools don’t include general education classes. Instead, students focus on learning the concepts and tools that they will actually use in a professional job. Classes usually take a number of weeks or months to complete, rather than the years required for a college degree. Many schools offer a variety of scheduling options, to accommodate a variety of schedules. For instance, you’re likely to find both full-time and part-time options, in addition to weeknight and weekend classes. Many schools offer both in-person and live online classes too. When you learn at a professional training center, you may also get access to a range of different types of career support. For instance, some schools--like Noble Desktop--include one-on-one mentoring sessions where you can get help building your resume and portfolio. You might also get help preparing for interviews, or even get access to internships and professional networks.

Coursera, Udemy, and Other On-Demand Platforms

On-demand platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Skillshare also provide SketchUp training. Offerings range from short courses that can be finished in a few hours or less, to longer paid options that take multiple days to complete. One of the biggest benefits of learning on-demand is that you’ll get a tremendous amount of flexibility. Since classes are pre-recorded, you can work through the material at your own pace, progressing as quickly or slowly as you choose. Another benefit is cost; these courses are usually significantly cheaper than live ones. However, on-demand classes lack a live instructor and that means you won’t be able to ask questions or get immediate feedback. Many students also find that without the accountability of a live instructor and a group of fellow students, it can be more difficult to stay focused and motivated. Some research shows that on-demand classes also tend to have a lower rate of completion than live classes.

Free Resources

There are also many free Sketchup learning resources online. YouTube has a long list of tutorials for this application. Some schools, like Noble Desktop, also provide free learning resources so that students can gain a better understanding of a particular topic before they commit to a paid class. SketchUp’s website offers free resources for users, including a number of resources on how to set up this application and how to get started using it. Another free learning option is to visit online forums, where expert users are often happy to share their insights and expertise. Free resources like these can be a great way to troubleshoot a problem, get an overview of how SketchUp works, or learn some basic skills, but if you’re serious about learning this application, you’ll probably want to invest in a formal class. With a formal class, you can follow a comprehensive curriculum under the guidance of an expert. A class also gives you the ability to ask questions and get feedback, which can make the learning process a lot easier.

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.