Best SketchUp Classes NYC: Find Courses & Onsite Training

Learn More About NYC SketchUp Courses

Over the years, digital design software has expanded to provide unprecedented power to skilled experts, including architects, building planners, manufacturing companies, and even auto manufacturers. In particular, 3D modeling tools have become the gold standard for producing, manipulating, and editing high-detail models that showcase designs effectively. For example, Trimble’s popular SketchUp software helps designers across various markets produce attractive work.

Initially released in 2000, SketchUp has received many updates and improvements, reaching the current version 22.0.1, released in 2019. Available on Windows and macOS operating systems in English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and Brazilian, this 3D modeling software integrates well with tools like Google Earth. It offers a Pro model that gives users complete control over this powerful and beneficial software.

While design professionals might feel comfortable learning this software without educational support, New York City offers many popular courses and bootcamps that make learning it quicker and easier. These include private institutions as well as public universities that may offer SketchUp certification! In fact, most large cities include in-person or online SketchUp courses, with NYC, in particular, offering many rewarding learning programs in this subject.

What Can You Do with SketchUp Training?

While most people who learn SketchUp use it professionally, others might not. For example, some might simply want to learn a fun, intuitive software tool to create intricate online artwork or even personal video games. Others learn it simply to expand their portfolio and highlight unique skills. No matter what their interests, there are likely a few ways that learners can use SketchUp in their lives. Here are a few reasons why people learn SketchUp:

Create Fun 3D Models: SketchUp’s powerful tools let students draw unique three-dimensional artwork and models that they can use in various ways. For example, they could produce an accurate 3D rendering of faces, design the interior of homes down to the last detail, or even create fun fantasy worlds for kids to explore.
Handle 3D Printing: Those who master 3D printing can make just about anything, including furniture, replacement car parts, and even workable mechanical devices. If they’re serious about this creative process or want to transition into professional 3D printing, learning SketchUp can help them produce fantastic designs for their printers.
Expand Their Creativity: Some students are always looking for new and exciting ways to show off their creative sides. Well, mastering SketchUp gives them one more medium in which to work! Knowing how to produce attractive, engaging, and detailed 3D models can provide complete control over fun and unforgettable art styles and projects.
Start a Side Hustle: If students have some free time after work or on the weekends and want to make more money, learning SketchUp can help! For instance, students could master this software tool well enough to take on design gigs. They can charge what they want, set up their clientele, and potentially expand this hustle into a full-time gig!

In these ways, earning a SketchUp certification or certificate can provide real long-term advantages! For instance, even if they don’t become full-time graphic artists or designers, knowing this software can help learners start a part-time side hustle in web design and artwork or become renowned digital artists producing realistic and appealing art. As a result, it’s worth knowing SketchUp skills and how to implement them effectively in design.

What Will I Learn in a SketchUp Class?

New York City residents curious about SketchUp might wonder what they’ll learn in their classes and how SketchUp stacks up compared to similar subjects. Those are important things to know because they can help learners choose sessions that feel right to them without spending too much money. In the following section, readers will learn what skills they’ll master in SketchUp courses and why they matter. They should then feel comfortable deciding on a program to take.

Creating Shapes and Lines

At its core, SketchUp is a digital graphic design software that focuses primarily on 3D models. Learners will study and create lines and shapes using various tools and programs. As they master SketchUp and its unique capabilities, they’ll continue to fall back on these basic steps to produce complex and attractive work. These basic and even primitive techniques are essential to master as they lay the foundation for more complicated and advanced uses.

Basic Design Principles

Most people who learn SketchUp probably have a design background or may have studied it professionally or in college. That said, most courses still cover basic design concepts to reinforce these ideas and help learners with little experience in this area. These include some fundamental geometric ideas, as well as interior design and architectural skills. Those without a related degree might want to pursue one before looking for more intricate jobs.

3D Modeling

There are many huge differences between two-dimensional and three-dimensional modeling. In fact, they’re often so large that even skilled 2D designers might find themselves struggling to transition to 3D work. Thankfully, SketchUp can help beginners, as well as more experienced designers, understand these differences and how to overcome them. Basic, intermediate, and advanced 3D modeling will take time and energy but is more than worth mastering for most.

Animation Basics

SketchUp offers a handful of animation tools that can help people interested in this particular market. For example, they’ll learn how to move their 3D models while maintaining consistency in shape, fluidity in design, and coherency in movement between each frame. By mastering animation or at least understanding its basics, learners lay the foundation for a career in modeling, marketing, and even producing high-quality animated television shows or films.

Texturing and Detailing

Creating basic 3D models isn’t too challenging, especially for those with experience in this market. However, these projects are pretty dull without intricate detailing and texturing work. SketchUp includes many powerful tools that can add depth and beauty to these projects, including different colors, shading concepts, and pastable textures. Students who master these concepts should find it pretty easy to utilize them in their day-to-day production tasks.

Time Management

In SketchUp bootcamps in New York City, students will also study many soft skills that can be used in both their careers and other parts of their lives. For example, they’ll learn proper time management techniques such as how to track all their design work and the time it took to produce it. All these abilities make it simpler for students to create appealing work without going overboard, which is critical in gig-based jobs where production time is strictly rationed.

How Hard is It to Learn SketchUp?

Most people who learn SketchUp say that it’s surprisingly easy to understand, particularly its various tools and apps. They claim the user interface is intuitive, the tools smooth and efficient, and the overall experience streamlined. However, people with minimal design experience may find it tricky to produce strong and accurate models. So, while learning the software itself probably won’t challenge most people, using it effectively may be a bit tougher.

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning SketchUp?

While most people can easily jump into SketchUp’s basic controls, knowing all the apps and how to use them effectively will be a real challenge. Furthermore, integrating design concepts into these 3D models will take some time to master. Others might have difficulty perceiving three-dimensional objects in a 2D space and need extra support mastering this process. That’s nothing that practice and a great bootcamp can’t help a learner overcome with time.

How Long Does It Take to Learn SketchUp?

The great thing about SketchUp is that it shouldn’t take students years to master. Those with design experience who have worked with similar software before will likely learn SketchUp in a few days or a week. Even beginners might find it easy to handle SketchUp in a couple of weeks or months. Now, that doesn’t mean they’re ready to use it professionally. True expert-level comprehension could take six months or longer, depending on a user’s previous experience.

Should I Learn SketchUp in Person or Online?

New York City residents are spoiled with many unique educational opportunities. In-person colleges and even online universities can teach them all they need to know about SketchUp. But is in-person or online learning better for a student? That all depends on many factors. For example, some people simply feel more comfortable in a physical classroom and can master various subjects more easily by spending time with their teacher practicing and perfecting them.

Physical classes also offer computers and software tools that make education easier, opportunities to interact with fellow students, and other huge benefits. By contrast, though, they cost more than online classes, are limited geographically, and may have stricter attendance policies. While there are many great in-person programs in New York City for SketchUp, it’s worth taking a look at some online courses to see what they have to offer a learner.

Virtual courses are split into two types: live and asynchronous options. Both include affordable rates and multiple activities and exercises reinforcing a student’s SketchUp skills. However, live programs offer real-time teacher interaction, high-quality 1-on-1 mentoring, and easier error correction. Asynchronous programs don’t offer those benefits but provide diverse learning suites that users can study whenever they want. The best option varies based on a student’s needs.

Can I Learn SketchUp Free Online?

While New York City offers plenty of fantastic SketchUp learning opportunities, it also has free learning programs that might tempt students to skip bootcamps entirely. For example, free seminars can reinforce many essential career skills, while YouTube channels can provide answers to complex questions. Sure, these tools are helpful for career edification, but they should serve as supplements to an advanced educational program, not as replacements.

What Should I Learn Alongside SketchUp?

Anyone looking for SketchUp classes near them in New York City must understand that this software isn’t the only thing worth learning in this field. Yes, SketchUp is by far the most popular 3D modeling program, and knowing it will exponentially improve their ability to find a design-related job. However, there are other tools available that can expand their capabilities even further and help them transition professionally. Other things worth learning include:

Alternate 3D Design Software: While SketchUp is a great tool that New York City designers can easily use in many different fields, mastering other software tools isn’t a bad idea. For example, options like Blender, FreeCAD, Sweet Home 3D, and Wings 3D may help SketchUp experts expand their skills and produce even better work.
Adobe Applications: Over the years, Adobe Creative Cloud suite of design tools has expanded to include a truly staggering number of products. Therefore, those who learn SketchUp might find it helpful to understand these programs. Software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign can expand a learner’s knowledge and make them a great hire.
Web Design: SketchUp isn’t necessarily used in web design all that often. However, companies that want to integrate 3D models and other visuals into their websites may need SketchUp experts who can produce this work for them. As a result, knowing some HTML, CSS, and JavaScript basics can help graduates produce truly effective results.
Digital Publishing: Digital magazines, zines, and other publications have become very popular in recent years because they provide plenty of unique design opportunities that users can’t get with paper-based work. For example, SketchUp experts could easily integrate models and animations into their digital work to make it more appealing.

These are just some of the things that learners should study either concurrently with SketchUp or after they graduate from their courses. Mastering these concepts and tools will make it easier for them to find work later or to use SketchUp more effectively. Just as importantly, they can give them the confidence that they need to fully understand design and use it comprehensively in projects as diverse as interior design, architectural projects, and even product manufacturing.

Industries That Use SketchUp

New York City has the largest economy in the nation, one that’s filled with many tech-related jobs that could use SketchUp. Publishing and design are massive in the city, as are various architectural firms, nonprofit organizations, and even cybersecurity companies. Businesses within these industries might need experts who understand SketchUp and are more than ready to tackle creative ideas. Here are a few potential fields worth exploring after graduation.

Architecture

Most SketchUp designers probably end up in the architecture field. After all, this software lets them create intensive three-dimensional designs that they can share with teammates, clients, and buyers. Just as importantly, they can use these abilities when handling interior design and other related skills. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a potential job market growth of 5% over the next 10 years, which is just a little over the American economic growth average.

Interior Design

Related to but separate from architecture, interior design focuses on creating gorgeous styles inside a person’s home, office, or industrial facility. Experts within this market may utilize SketchUp to produce accurate models to show their designs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 4% growth in this industry or nearly 10,000 new positions yearly. Expect lots of opportunities in New York City, thanks to its heavy population of high-earning individuals.

Video Game Design

Though video game design companies in America are often centered on the West Coast, New York City has many big-name developers in this market. Take-Two Interactive Software, Rockstar Games, Arkadium, and Tilting Point all operate out of the Big Apple. They produce 3D games that require experts who understand SketchUp and other similar software. Growth within this industry could reach or even exceed 8%, especially in populated cities like NYC.

Marketing

New York City is filled to the brim with start-up and big-name marketing companies appealing to a broad range of different industries. Thankfully, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a growth of around 8% in many positions in this industry, including advertising, promotions, and marketing managers. These many companies in New York might need SketchUp specialists who can produce appealing three-dimensional graphics for video-based and online advertisements.

Civil Engineering

Civil and mechanical engineers should know SketchUp intimately to produce high-quality, detailed, and efficient designs for projects like dams, water line installation, and more. Within this industry, the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates 5% growth. That’s not as big as some other markets but still faster than the national average. As a result, learners who master SketchUp might find it an advantageous industry, especially if they want to make good cash.

SketchUp Job Titles and Salaries

Within the NYC industries listed above, SketchUp jobs might fall into graphic design, marketing, video and motion, and even business-related fields. As a result, graduates need to study their options carefully and choose something that fits their needs. Just as critically, they must know what they’ll make in these markets and what kind of job duties they might fill. Here are a few job opportunities for SketchUp specialists that might fit into their specific experiences and interests.

Digital Designer

As a Digital Designer, learners will make graphics, animations, and visual effects in two- and three-dimensions. They’ll likely use SketchUp and similar tools to produce attractive, intricate, and unforgettable projects that look great. Expect to use them when making applications, advertisements, publications, and even websites. Salaries in this field trend high, with the national average around $102,000. The NYC median is a little lower at $90,000.

3D Animator

Anyone working as a 3D Animator will likely use SketchUp regularly to produce fun and unforgettable characters, backgrounds, and scenes. They’ll model human and animal movement realistically, produce intricate and dynamic visuals, and make the user feel immersed in a story. People in this job often work for amusement parks, like Walt Disney World, website production firms, or even filmmakers. US median salaries hit $94,000 and $131,000 in NYC.

Digital Strategist

A Digital Strategist works heavily on virtual projects and may integrate SketchUp when handling three-dimensional elements in their designs. For example, they may create websites, social media posts, digital marketing campaigns, online books, and SEO content that uses 3D graphics and animations. People in this market can make about $81,000 on average in America. Thankfully, New York City digital strategists earn a median of around $95,000.

Video Manager

A Video Manager works heavily with all aspects of film production, including creating fun ideas, producing storyboards and scripts, and handling post-production steps. Within specific industries, they may use SketchUp to make 3D models of scenes for brainstorming or special effects. They make around $69,000 on average in America, with higher-earning options in bigger cities. For instance, NYC video managers earn a median of around $87,000 annually.

SketchUp Classes Near Me

New York City residents are spoiled for learning opportunities. There are likely dozens of high-quality schools, private institutions, and bootcamps teaching SketchUp in the area. How can they choose a program that makes sense for them? Well, the following three schools and courses offer a hands-on approach that ensures graduates walk away confident in their skills. They’re some of the best available in the city and should help learners feel genuinely engaged.

Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop is an award-winning training team that provides in-person courses in New York City that residents will love. These classes feature hands-on exercises, high-quality professors, a proven curriculum, and learning tools that make education fun and engaging. They also offer online programs that students may prefer if they want to avoid New York City traffic.

SketchUp Pro Bootcamp

SketchUp Pro Bootcamp teaches students how to create 3D models using this software. They’ll watch videos, build great artwork, master texturing, transform their projects with excellent tools, and even add volume to their work. Costing only $700 and taking just 12 hours, this fast-paced and innovative class will give students the best chances of mastering SketchUp effectively.

VCDI

VCDI is a learning team that provides hands-on, online training across the nation for anyone who needs it. Devoted to professional development, this team offers expansive and exciting training with skilled professors and detailed curricula. With nationally accredited courses on a variety of subjects, VCDI is a good solution for people interested in learning SketchUp quickly.

SKP 101—Introduction to SketchUp Pro

SKP 101—Introduction to SketchUp Pro is a 30-hour course that takes place over about three weeks. Costing just $580, it offers a low-cost alternative to live education. It includes 5.5 hours of on-demand videos and training exercises that help learners master SketchUp. Subjects include 3D modeling, design technology, 3D design, and rendering expansive projects efficiently.

SketchUp Trainer

SketchUp Trainer is a specialized school that provides exactly what its name implies: classes to teach people how to use this software. Their New York City offices provide two-day courses that focus on reinforcing a student’s skills in various ways. Classes typically last all day and provide learners with ample opportunities to learn SketchUp and its powerful tools.

New York City: 2 Day Beginner SketchUp Class

The New York City: 2 Day Beginner SketchUp Class is a two-day course that costs $800. Students can work on-site with SketchUp Trainer to learn important lessons, like SketchUp’s specific interface and how to create designs like living rooms from scratch. This class focuses mostly on interior design subjects, so students should keep that in mind when selecting it.

ONLC Training

ONLC Training offers in-person and live courses in various locations nationwide, including New York City. They typically focus on a variety of visual design subjects, including SketchUp. Classes usually move quickly through a few days to help students master subjects efficiently. Often, there are multiple levels, meaning learners can take several courses to solidify their knowledge.

SketchUp Level 1—Essentials Course Outline

SketchUp Level 1—Essentials Course Outline is a three-day class that covers multiple elements of SketchUp quickly and efficiently. This beginner-friendly course focuses on the basic SketchUp interface, as well as advanced modeling, grouping, and importing steps. Students will learn layout, plugins, and material libraries. Costs are around $1,200 for in-person programs.

SketchUp Corporate Training

Anyone who runs a graphic design firm or similar company might need large-scale training teams to reinforce their crew’s SketchUp knowledge. Thankfully, SketchUp training and corporate courses focus on large group sizes to teach as many people as possible. In particular, New York City residents can receive in-person education with skilled experts who provide 1-on-1 mentorship and support for students struggling with the basics of this program’s UI.

Even better, online courses provide a similar experience so that a team can learn from work in the comfort of their own desks. This makes virtual training a little cheaper and easier for large companies that might not want to relocate their whole team to a training facility. With discounted bulk vouchers and in-depth training, Noble Desktop’s courses provide a truly engaging experience for companies. Email them at corporate@nobledesktop.com to learn more.

Eric Benac

Eric Benac is a copywriter, marketing content producer, researcher, and AI specialist for Noble Desktop. He earned a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in Writing from Northern Michigan University. Before working with Noble Desktop, Eric worked for over 15 years as a copywriter, project manager, and marketer. Since graduating, he's continually expanded his knowledge base by completing project management courses, digital marketing classes, artificial intelligence programs, and programming certifications. Currently, he works full-time as a project manager for an AI firm. Eric’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Digital Marketing & E-Commerce, and Generative AI Fundamentals.

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Key Insights

Learn More About NYC SketchUp Courses

What Can You Do with SketchUp Training?

What Will I Learn in a SketchUp Class?

Creating Shapes and Lines

Basic Design Principles

3D Modeling

Animation Basics

Texturing and Detailing

Time Management

How Hard is It to Learn SketchUp?

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning SketchUp?

How Long Does It Take to Learn SketchUp?

Should I Learn SketchUp in Person or Online?

Can I Learn SketchUp Free Online?

What Should I Learn Alongside SketchUp?

Industries That Use SketchUp

Architecture

Interior Design

Video Game Design

Marketing

Civil Engineering

SketchUp Job Titles and Salaries

Digital Designer

3D Animator

Digital Strategist

Video Manager

SketchUp Classes Near Me

Noble Desktop

SketchUp Pro Bootcamp

VCDI

SKP 101—Introduction to SketchUp Pro

SketchUp Trainer

New York City: 2 Day Beginner SketchUp Class

ONLC Training

SketchUp Level 1—Essentials Course Outline

SketchUp Corporate Training

NYC SketchUp Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

SketchUp Training Locations in or Near NYC

NYC Careers & Salaries Related to SketchUp

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Virtual Design & Construction Institute SketchUp Pro Course Online (Self-Paced)
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NYC SketchUp
Corporate & Onsite Training