International Academy of Design and Technology

The International Academy of Design and Technology in Chicago, now merged with Sanford-Brown College, was celebrated for its fashion design programs. Recognised for its small class sizes and industry-driven curriculum, it offered students personalised attention and exposure to real-world fashion challenges. The academy’s connections with Chicago’s fashion community provided students with invaluable networking opportunities, helping them transition seamlessly into the professional world.

The International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT) Chicago is part of a larger network of for-profit colleges focused on providing education in creative arts, design, and technology. It was established with the aim of offering practical, industry-oriented programs in fields such as graphic design, fashion, interior design, multimedia, and digital arts. 

The campus was founded as part of the broader IADT system, which expanded across cities in the United States to meet the growing demand for specialized training in creative industries. Its curriculum emphasized hands-on learning, industry standards, and portfolio development to prepare students for careers in their chosen fields.

IADT Chicago was owned by Career Education Corporation (CEC), a prominent organization in for-profit higher education. The institution was accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), although like many for-profit colleges, it faced scrutiny regarding accreditation standards and regulatory oversight over the years. Around 2014, due to various challenges faced by for-profit institutions—the IADT brand was phased out. Many campuses, including Chicago, either closed or underwent rebranding, with students often transitioning to other institutions.

Today, the IADT brand no longer exists as an independent entity, and the Chicago campus has been  absorbed into other educational organizations. Its legacy persists through its alumni and the programs it offered, but the institution itself has ceased operations. 

The institute’s fashion programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical training, focusing on areas such as fashion design, fashion merchandising, and fashion marketing. Students are taught essential techniques in garment construction, pattern-making, and textile selection with insights into market trends, consumer behavior, and branding strategies. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members, students receive a comprehensive education that bridges the gap between creativity and business acumen.

The school’s fashion programs also emphasize hands-on experience, encouraging students to showcase their creativity through fashion shows, portfolio projects, and internships. The academy fosters a collaborative environment, allowing students to work alongside peers and mentors. Moreover, the curriculum incorporates the latest technological advancements, such as computer-aided design software, to prepare students for the evolving demands of the fashion industry.

The International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT) Chicago did not appear in global MBA rankings such as those published by the Financial Times, QS World University Rankings, or U.S. News and World Report. This is because IADT primarily focused on design, multimedia, and creative arts programs rather than traditional business or MBA programs. Additionally, IADT was a for-profit institution known mainly for its programs in design, fashion, multimedia, and related fields, and it did not have a strong emphasis on or recognition for traditional MBA or business degrees on a global scale.

The International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT) Chicago aimed to prepare students for careers in creative fields through a combination of practical training, industry-focused curricula, and portfolio development. IADT’s approach involved career counseling, resume workshops, portfolio reviews, and partnerships with industry employers to facilitate job placement. 

The goal was to equip students with the skills and experience needed to secure employment in fields such as graphic design, fashion, multimedia, interior design, and digital arts. However, as a for-profit institution, the effectiveness of job integration depended on individual effort, industry demand, and regional employment opportunities. Since IADT Chicago has since been absorbed into other institutions, current data on job placement rates or career outcomes specific to that campus are limited. 

The International Academy of Design and Technology has produced alumni who have significantly contributed to fashion. A prominent graduate is Elda De La Rosa, a bridal and eveningwear designer based in Chicago. Her designs have been praised for their intricate craftsmanship and elegance. Elda’s success underscores the academy’s role in nurturing talent with emphasis on quality and innovation.

1. "History of IADT". International Academy of Design and Technology. 
2. "The International Academy of Design & Technology". OVGuide.
3. "For-Profit College: Costly Lesson". CBS News. 
4. "IADT = Waste of money. CBS 60 minutes report. – TRIBE – tribe.ca". Tribemagazine.com. 
5. "Rojas et al. v. Career Education Corporation No. 10 – cv – 05260" (PDF). 
6. "Career Education Announces New College Network; Brings the International Academy of Design & Technology and Brown College under the Sanford-Brown Name" (Press release). 
7. "IADT Accreditation & Licensure". Iadt.edu. 
8. "Black female characters, artists fight for place in comic book world". Chicago Tribune.