For those looking to break into the field, video editing bootcamps in Chicago offer an efficient and practical way to gain the necessary skills. But how much do these bootcamps cost in Chicago? This article explores the average cost, key factors affecting tuition, and the benefits of attending one. Readers should take a deep dive into this skill to know what they’re getting into here.
Average Cost of Video Editing Bootcamps in Chicago
The top video editing bootcamps in Chicago teach many subjects to help learners prepare for a rewarding and exciting career in this market. Students here not only learn how to edit raw footage but also practice with actual editing software to create attractive and unforgettable work.
These programs often include Chicago-area training facilities where learners get access to high-powered equipment, further improving their education. However, all these materials cost money, and schools that use them typically have to charge high rates to make money.
Overview of Typical Price Range
People signing up for Windy City video editing bootcamps need to know how much they’re going to pay for their course. Put simply, they’re likely to pay anywhere from about $900 to over $5,000, depending on many different factors, most of which will be discussed later in depth.
Typically, though, courses generally cost around $2,000 to $3,000, with a few providers offering courses lower or higher. These expenses aren’t considerable but may not be affordable for everyone. Thankfully, readers will learn about financial aid offerings in a later section here.
Comparison of Average Costs Between Different Bootcamps
Researching Chicago video editing bootcamp costs will reveal some pretty surprising price variances. Some courses will be well under $1,000, while others cost nearly $6,000. Those differences can be very confusing for many students to understand. On that note, it’s worth pointing out four popular bootcamps and their typical expenses for potential learners:
- Noble Desktop: As New York City’s most popular training team, Noble provides multiple workshops and bootcamps for people interested in video editing and other topics. Online Chicago courses cost between $3,000 and $5,000, depending on their scope.
- Cerstaffix Training: With live and online classes for group and corporate training in Chicago, Cerstaffix can help people interested in video editing master these skills. Their Adobe Premiere courses take three days and cost about $1,300 to complete.
- Computer Training Source: This team provides short and cost-efficient classes on a variety of subjects, including video editing. Most cost about $350 or so, though prices go up as learners progress into more advanced and challenging learning programs.
- Ledet Training: Ledet offers graphics and mobile training courses on-site and digitally to various locations nationwide, including in Chicago. Their video editing courses typically focus on Adobe Video and other programs and cost around $900 to $2,200 or so.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Video Editing Bootcamps
Anyone looking to jump into a video editing bootcamp must understand why their courses cost a specific amount. These variables will change heavily based on the classes themselves, as they’re surprisingly diverse despite teaching the same basic subjects. Here are some of the biggest cost elements that will significantly impact a video editing course’s overall expenses.
Duration of the Program
Longer video editing programs that last several months offer a more immersive experience. Naturally, they tend to cost more than shorter, intensive workshops. After all, students get far more access to teachers and learning materials. They must also complete more intensive coursework to graduate, making these classes a costlier (but often better) learning investment.
Curriculum and Specializations Offered
Course depth can also impact costs, particularly if they cover advanced editing techniques, color correction, audio mixing, motion graphics, and 3D editing. Further specializations, like post-production for film, video effects, or working with particular software (like Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve) may further drive up prices and impact course affordability.
Reputation and Ranking of the Bootcamp
Nobody wants to go to a bad school, so the reputation of any video editing bootcamp plays a role in what the school charges. Typically, well-known bootcamps with high job placement rates, strong alumni networks, and connections with top video production companies tend to charge more. Their perceived value and benefits give them the edge over lower-quality offerings.
Location and Facilities
Bootcamps with physical locations in prime areas of Chicago often have to charge more due to higher rent and other expenses. This is true especially for those with high-end video editing facilities and equipment. In contrast, online or hybrid bootcamps that don’t require costly overhead for space and equipment may have affordable options, depending on the school.
Instructor Qualifications
The best bootcamps often have the money to employ highly experienced instructors or industry professionals with years of real-world experience. These schools tend to charge more because learners will benefit from the expertise, industry connections, and insights these teachers bring. They’ll also discuss all the latest video editing trends and techniques to help students thrive.
Benefits of Attending Video Editing Bootcamps
While the cost of video editing bootcamps may seem high, they offer significant advantages to students looking to enter the field of video production quickly. In fact, since there are so many financial aid options for people looking to jump into these programs, their bonuses are even bigger and simply shouldn’t be ignored. Here are a few reasons why they’re a great investment.
Structured Learning Environment
High-quality bootcamps are set up to provide a focused, structured environment for students looking to quickly and efficiently learn. In these courses, they concentrate on learning new video skills without distractions. This setup allows students to progress rapidly and build foundational skills in a short amount of time. Even better, skills are built in a logical and meaningful way.
Access to Experienced Instructors and Mentors
Bootcamps typically offer access to industry professionals who have extensive experience in video production and editing. Other types of programs do too, of course, but bootcamp schools often have more money to spend on their professors. These skilled and innovative instructors can then provide valuable insights and mentorship for students throughout the program.
Networking Opportunities with Peers and Industry Professionals
Video editing bootcamps often focus heavily on introducing students to not only new peers but potential employers and other specialists. They will host networking events, guest speakers, and collaborations for their graduates to help them meet industry professionals and peers. These connections can lead to internships, job opportunities, and lots of personal growth.
Career Services and Job Placement Assistance
Many bootcamps include career services as part of their tuition. Not all schools offer this support, with many universities wishing graduates the best of luck. Bootcamps focus on helping students with resume building, portfolio creation, interview preparation, and connecting with hiring companies to increase their chances of finding a job. That’s a huge benefit for students.
Why Paying for a Video Editing Bootcamp is Better Than Learning for Free
A quick Google or Bing search for “free video editing courses in Chicago” will reveal a handful of resources such as free seminars, that students might feel tempted to use to master this skill set. That’s an understandable choice but not a smart one. While applicable as supplemental courses, these free tools simply can’t replace a paid bootcamp. Here are some reasons why.
Accountability and Motivation
Free programs typically lack the kind of “push” that paid programs provide learners. After all, paid bootcamps offer a structured timeline, deadlines, and projects that reinforce accountability. Furthermore, students who’ve spent thousands of dollars are far less likely to drop out of a class due to the investment. That can help keep students on track compared to self-paced learning.
Hands-On Projects and Real-World Experience
Free courses focus on theoretical video editing concepts and tools and don’t have the resources to provide hands-on work for students. By contrast, paid bootcamps emphasize practical learning, allowing students to work on real-world projects that demonstrate their skills to future employers. As they work on these projects, they’ll build a high-quality, professional portfolio.
Immediate Feedback and Personalized Support
People who sign up for free classes typically don’t get access to great teachers. They simply get some learning materials and must fend for themselves. Paid bootcamps don’t work that way. Instructors provide immediate feedback on assignments and projects to help students improve their skills quickly and effectively. That personalized mentorship gives students tailored support.
Community and Collaborative Learning
Trying to learn without the help of a teacher can make a student feel trapped and lost. In video editing, that’s especially true because techniques and software tools are often so complex. Learning alongside peers in a bootcamp fosters a sense of community and collaboration, which enhances the overall learning experience and reinforces a graduate’s overall knowledge base.
Financing Options for Video Editing Bootcamps
The price of a bootcamp can be a significant investment, but many schools offer financing options to help students manage the expense. These fantastic resources help to take the edge off paying for a class or even cover all the costs. That’s huge for anyone who’s trying to avoid falling into debt while taking their career to the next level. Here are four options to try.
Scholarships and Grants
Whenever they’re available, grants and scholarships are the best options for people trying to pay for a video editing education. They don’t have to be paid back and cover some, or even all, of a course’s expenses. In fact, some bootcamps offer scholarships for underrepresented groups in media and tech or for students who demonstrate financial need or exceptional talent.
Income Share Agreements (ISAs)
An income share agreement is a popular financing option that allows students to attend a video editing bootcamp in Chicago without upfront payment. Instead, the school lets them pay some of their video editing income after they find a related job. It’s a clever idea because it inspires the school to promote the students and ensure that they find a job after completing a course.
Payment Plans and Deferred Tuition
Many bootcamps offer payment plans for students who don’t qualify for other financing tools. These allow students to spread out the cost of tuition over several months, usually between three to six or so. By contrast, deferred tuition plans let students begin paying after they graduate and find employment in a video editing job. Both require full repayment of tuition.
Loans and Financial Aid
Lastly, students can try signing up for loans and financial aid from private institutions. Most bootcamps don’t take federal financial funding, though that varies based on the school. Instead, most either work with private teams or offer personalized options directly from their coffers. Note that loans include interest rates that accrue over time and cost an individual good money.
Available Video Editing Bootcamps in Chicago
Preparing for a video editing career in a Chicago bootcamp requires students to identify the best class option for their needs. Typically, the most appropriate courses focus heavily on not only teaching important skills but preparing learners for a career after graduationl. Anyone not sure about their options should check out these three classes to get the inside scoop they deserve.
Noble Desktop
Noble Desktop is New York City’s best and most acclaimed training team. With online courses available in Chicago and beyond, this school provides hands-on education from trusted professors. Learners not only get top-notch career support in these programs but create a portfolio of video editing work that will help them stand out compared to other graduates.
Video Editing & Motion Graphics Certificate
Video Editing & Motion Graphics Certificate is a 126-hour course that costs $5,000. In this innovative and exciting class, learners will study video editing, motion graphics, audio editing, and much more. As they learn Adobe programs like Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Audition, they’ll enhance their abilities and walk away ready to master just about any career they want.
Ledet Training
Ledet Training offers training courses across the nation with in-person and online courses in cities like Denver, Atlanta, Chicago, Portland, and Houston. Their classes focus on fast-paced learning, with completion times of around five days. Learners should walk away with a basic understanding of a subject and feel comfortable working in a variety of different subjects.
Adobe Video 501—Adobe Video Professional Bootcamp
Adobe Video 501—Adobe Video Professional Bootcamp takes about five days and costs $2,200 to introduce students to a variety of different subjects. It focuses heavily on Adobe Video, an important editing software that includes After Effects and Premiere. By using industry-standard tools and techniques, learners will create motion graphics and post-filming video effects.
Cerstaffix Training
Cerstaffic Training is a training school that provides onsite and online education on a variety of subjects, including online marketing, general business skills, programming, and IT support. Their courses typically last a few days and are usually more affordable. Students interested in Adobe Premiere, in particular, will find at least one program to master these unique skills.
Adobe Premiere Pro CC (2020)
Adobe Premiere Pro CC (2020) takes three days to complete and requires an investment of $1,330. Throughout the course, learners will practice many tips and tricks with this software, including animating clips, organizing media, editing multi-camera work, importing media, and balancing sound. When handled properly, this tool helps video editors truly stand out.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Video editing bootcamps in Chicago don’t require very strict prerequisites and typically stay open to students from all walks of life. For example, people with no experience can usually apply to a school. Often, individuals with some knowledge may find it even easier to learn.
That said, more advanced courses typically ask individuals to pass beginner-level courses first before taking them. A little research can help anyone confused about these requirements get the help that they need to find a program that makes sense for their specific learning needs.
Skills Learned in Video Editing Bootcamps
People balancing their life’s expenses with a video editing bootcamp might be on the fence about whether these courses are worth their time or not. Thankfully, these programs provide far more benefits than downsides thanks to their unique skills-centered approach. Here are a few things that students will learn when they sign up for and complete a video editing bootcamp.
Core Editing Concepts
Early in their learning, students will practice things like editing workflows and post-production techniques to add a little pizazz to their work. Then, they’ll practice color correction, sound design, and audio mixing to really produce great work. Once they have this background, it should be a lot easier for them to transition into an exciting and rewarding career professionally.
Software Understanding
Modern video editing requires mastering various types of software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve) to produce great results. These tools aren’t necessarily complex (most are user-friendly), but mastering their processes is a bit trickier. Thankfully, most bootcamps will focus on one or more programs to make this educational process a little easier.
Storytelling Concepts
Video editing isn’t just the process of carefully stitching together footage to make it look great; it also involves storytelling through visual media. For example, learners need to know how to communicate movement, changes in scenery, drama, and suspense in their work, even when creating marketing materials. Mastering these concepts helps them stand out professionally.
Motion Graphics and Visual Effects
Motion graphics and video effects (VFX) form the background of all special effects in various markets. For example, VFX artists might create effects for television shows, YouTube channels, and much more. Or they might work directly with film studios, making the latest blockbusters. Whatever the case, these skills help learners improve their chances of finding work.
Jobs Available After Video Editing Bootcamps
After completing an in-person or live online video editing bootcamp, learners have many job opportunities to consider. These include some industry-leading positions that provide very rewarding career experiences for people fascinated by the creative possibilities of video editing. Here are a few opportunities for learners to consider after they graduate their bootcamp:
- 2D Animator: As a 2D Animator, people will develop storyboards, backgrounds, and characters to create unique and personalized stories. They make an average of $56,000 nationally and around $61,000 in Chicago, which is over 8% higher than the US median.
- Video Editor: A Video Editor typically works on films, advertisements, and television shows to carefully edit footage to meet the director’s specific vision. Expect average salaries of $61,000 in the US, and $70,000 in Chicago or nearly 14% higher.
- Video Manager: A career as a Video Manager includes tracking projects from beginning to end, including storyboarding, scripting, filming, and editing. Nationally, they make around $69,000 and $62,000 in Chicago, though higher-earning positions are available.
- 3D Animator: As one of the highest-earning video jobs on the market, a 3D Animator will create 3D footage and images for various projects. It’s particularly high-paying in Chicago with a $173,000 average or 146% higher than the US average of $70,000.
Why Learning Video Editing in Chicago is Rewarding
Creative jobs like video editing provide people with the chance to do some exciting work. But why is learning video editing better than mastering something like graphic design? For the right person, it offers a wealth of creative and professional opportunities that can take their lives to the next stage on all levels. Here are some reasons why it’s rewarding for many people.
High Demand for Tech Skills in the Job Market
With the rise of digital content, there is increasing demand for skilled video editors across industries such as entertainment, marketing, social media, and advertising. As a result, editors have almost unlimited opportunities for work in many thrilling and engaging markets. Even in a world with AI content creation, there’s a huge need for video editors to make that work better.
Opportunities for Creativity and Innovation
Video editing is a highly creative field in which professionals shape the narrative and aesthetic of a story, video, or campaign. In fact, editing is often more important than shooting raw footage when it comes to making films. Think of if this way: raw footage is the marble and editing is the sculpting. As a result, editors play a critical role in producing engaging and successful work.
Potential for Remote Work and Flexible Hours
VIdeo editors may work directly on film sites to plan edits with directors and camera operators. However, many video editing jobs, especially freelance positions, offer the flexibility to work from home or anywhere with a computer and editing software. Some editors simply get the footage shipped to them with instructions and carefully cut it to make sure it makes sense for viewers.
Personal Satisfaction and Continuous Learning
Video editing is a field where continuous learning is essential. New trends pop up in the market every day, as does new software tools and techniques. These changes help the work fresh and exciting and minimize boredom. Just as importantly, editing is a fast-paced job, so people who want to work hard on big projects often love this field, particularly if they’re innately creative.
How Easy is It to Learn Video Editing?
People learning video editing may find it relatively challenging due to the unique scope of this skill set and its technical demands. Knowing when to use various editing techniques will be tricky, as will mastering the software and understanding storytelling principles and visual effects.
However, with dedication and the proper training, students can become proficient in a matter of months. That said, it’s only through regular practice that most learners will walk away confident of their skills and ready to tackle just about any professional video editing project successfully.
How Long Will It Take to Learn Video Editing?
Mastering video editing isn’t going to take a few days or even the length of a bootcamp. Yes, a few weeks in a course will solidify a learner’s understanding of this process and make it easier to use. However, it’s only through continued practice that complete mastery can be achieved.
Most estimate that video editing should take about 4-5 months to understand profoundly and about a year to perform professionally. That said, these are just rough estimates. With regular practice, these times can be decreased significantly and improve a learner’s experience.