This degree in Illustration will help you develop both your illustrative style and flair for creative image-making. The course covers the practical, professional and artistic sides of working as an illustrator with an individual artistic voice. The programme will equip you for a successful career in the creative industries. 

Working with experienced and industry active staff, you will learn how to create compelling images, work to professional standards and understand how your work fits into the industry.

You will be introduced to professional creative processes and encouraged to expand your abilities through workshops and practical projects. You will learn how to interpret a brief, identify and solve problems, develop creative individuality and produce a professional portfolio. 

As well as gaining personal, professional and entrepreneurial skills, our programmes introduce a broad range of creative skills, from the generation of ideas to their technical production through printmaking, bookbinding, 3D materials, life drawing, traditional and digital media, with an emphasis on drawing and the development of a unique personal style. 

High-quality artwork and a unique illustrative voice are at the heart of the course. Opportunities to explore your style, the applications of your work, your use of media and technology are consistent throughout the programmes.

The business of working as a freelance artist is an important aspect of the course, covering practical advice from marketing and self-promotion to contracts, invoices and working with clients. Working on live briefs and competitions are available and encouraged.

YEAR 1 (FOUNDATION YEAR)

 The foundation year will introduce you to the key elements of art and design, including design practice, applied and fine art.  You will explore the creative thought process relating to various art and design disciplines, developing your ability to put ideas down on paper quickly. There will be a range of practical assignments which will increase your recognition of strong ideas and original concepts.

• The skills you need
• Contextual Studies
• Introduction to Art and Design
• Introduction to Applied Art
• Introduction to Fine Art
• Creative Thinking

 YEAR 2 (LEVEL 4)

 The second-year introduces students to the fundamental principles of illustration that will help you develop your illustrative style. This includes developing an understanding of the tools and creative techniques you will be using, the historical contexts and theories of illustration, print, production, bookbinding techniques and an understanding of the illustration industry.

 MODULES 

• Visual Communication
• Media & Techniques
• Contextual Studies 1
• Ideas & Concepts
• Print & Production
• Creative Futures 1

 YEAR 3 (LEVEL 5)

 The third-year enables students to develop their individual approach to character design, the role of illustration in society, the conceptual aspects of illustration, the practicalities of preparing work for production as well as exploring the fundamentals of running a business as a freelancer.

 MODULES

• Characters in Context
• Illustration in Action
• Contextual Studies 2
• Conceptual Illustration
• Print & Publishing
• Creative Futures 2

 YEAR 4 (LEVEL 6)

 The final year is negotiated. You will work with staff to pitch the projects that demonstrate your illustrative style, your skills and abilities, your ambition and your understanding of the illustration industry.

 MODULES

• Negotiated Practice
• Contextual Studies 3
• Creative Futures 3
• Illustration Degree Project