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Illustration, BA (Hons), University of Portsmouth

the United Kingdom

University of Portsmouth

Study options for this course

The award How you will study Study duration Course start Domestic course fees International course fees
BA (Hons)Full-time, Sandwich3 - 4 yearsSeptemberGBP 0 per yearGBP 0 per year

About Illustration, BA (Hons) - at University of Portsmouth

Overview

Redefine the world with a pencil or stylus on this BA (Hons) Illustration degree course.

You’ll challenge convention in all spheres: from inspecting illustration from new perspectives, to delving into its social, political and historical significance. You'll discover traditional and contemporary illustration techniques and the business essentials of the art form – and you can gain extra professional experience through a one-year placement, client projects, and entering design competitions. Come explore your individual vision through experimentation and engage with a range of professional applications.

At the end of this course, you'll become an all-encompassing illustrator that stands out among competitors in the creative industries. 

Course highlights

  • Explore a rich array of traditional and digital media—including print, paint, sculpture, 3D printing, laser cutting, spray paint, Cintiqs, VR drawing, and Risograph printing.
  • Raise your professional profile by taking on live projects with local and international clients such as Anglepoise
  • Catch potential employers' eyes by exhibiting your work at national exhibitions and our annual Graduate Show
  • Have the chance to win eminent awards by entering international competitions like Design & Art Direction (D&AD), The Macmillan Prize, and the V&A Illustration Awards
  • Enrich your practical and industry experience by taking an optional one-year placement – either with a company or by setting up your own
  • Showcase your Adobe expertise to industry peers by gaining Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) qualifications

Careers and opportunities

The creative and technical abilities you develop on this course – in sequential storytelling, character animation, and visual storytelling – could lead to a variety of creative roles in design and media.

You can also continue your studies at postgraduate level.

Graduate areas

Areas previous graduates have included:

  • animation
  • artist book making
  • children’s book illustration
  • editorial illustration
  • graphic novels, comics, and zines
  • narrative illustration
  • print making
  • art direction
  • teaching

Ongoing careers support

Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.

Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.

Placement year (optional)

After your second or third year, you can take an optional year-long placement to gain on-the-job experience in industries needing illustrators and designers. You can work for a company or organisation, or start up and run your own business. Together with your peers – or by yourself – you'll build and launch a successful venture.

In either case, our Creative Careers team is on hand to assist.

Notes about fees for this course

https://www.port.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/undergraduate-fees-and-student-finance

Entry requirements

112-120 points to include a minimum of 2 A levels, or equivalent. All applicants will be asked to provide a digital portfolio of work.

English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.

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Related Information

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