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    Study illustration abroad

    An in-depth guide to studying illustration as an international student.

    Find illustration programs

    Explore illustration programs abroad

    See other programs in illustration

    Illustration degrees abroad

    Illustration is the academic study of visual images and the messages they communicate. Programs in illustration provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to get ahead in this creative industry.

    As well as studying the principles and processes behind powerful illustrations, you’ll trace the evolution of the industry throughout history. You’ll experiment with a range of artistic methods and media, from drawing and digital, to painting and printmaking. These experiences will help you to master your own visual style.

    Illustration is a practice that varies tremendously between countries and cultures. By studying abroad, you’ll encounter new illustrative styles, techniques, processes, and concepts that’ll enrich your artistic education. You’ll become a more original, versatile, and well-rounded artist.

    Illustration program structure

    You can study illustration at various undergraduate and postgraduate degree levels. Two-year associate degrees introduce students to the fundamentals of the field, equipping you for entry-level employment or further study.

    The majority of illustration students choose to enroll in a bachelor’s program. These degrees are offered as a BA across most of the world and you’ll study for a minimum of three years.

    However, if you choose to study in the US or Canada, you might pursue a bachelor of fine arts (BFA) course. This four-year program has a more intensive illustration focus, so you’ll take fewer liberal arts classes.

    Once you’ve completed your bachelor’s, you can enroll in an MA or master of fine arts (MFA) program. Both programs can be studied over one or two years, but they differ slightly in content. MA programs are structured around critical study and research, whereas MFA courses focus on professional artistic practice.

    PhDs in illustration are available and can take anywhere between four and seven years to finish. Doctorate degrees are particularly useful if you’re hoping to work in higher education.

    Illustration programs are normally taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and studio-based workshops. Most universities will also arrange guest presentations from industry specialists, relevant field trips, and on-campus exhibitions.

    Thanks to the wide range of elective modules offered as part of illustration programs, you can easily tailor your degree to suit your interests. However, most courses will cover these key topics:

    • Introduction to visual communication
    • Theories and practice of visual communication
    • Illustration techniques
    • History of art and illustration
    • Contemporary illustration
    • Illustrations for publications
    • Fundamentals of digital illustration
    • Color theory

    Best countries to study illustration

    Best universities to study illustration

    See all universities offering illustration programs

    How to study illustration abroad

    1. University & program search

      Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

    2. Application guidance

      We'll get you to the right place to start your application

    3. Visa & travel advice

      Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

    Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
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    Illustration study abroad programs

    Illustration undergraduate programs

    Bachelor's in illustration

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      Art, Illustration - BFA University of Hartford, USA

      Program type
      Bachelor's
      Duration
      4 years
      Annual tuition fee
      45,144 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 45,144 USD

      Start date
      January, May
      Show program overview about Art, Illustration
    • false

      Art, Studio with specialization in Medical & Scientific Illustration - BA Oglethorpe University, USA

      Program type
      Bachelor's
      Duration
      4 years
      Annual tuition fee
      39,300 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 39,300 USD

      Start date
      January, August
      Show program overview about Art, Studio with specialization in Medical & Scientific Illustration
    • false

      Art: Illustration - BFA California State University, East Bay, USA

      Program type
      Bachelor's
      Duration
      4 years
      Annual tuition fee
      16,499 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 16,499 USD

      Start date
      August, January
      Show program overview about Art: Illustration
    • false

      Art: Illustration/Animation - BFA California State University, Long Beach, USA

      Program type
      Bachelor's
      Duration
      4 years
      Annual tuition fee
      16,338 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 16,338 USD

      Start date
      August, January
      Show program overview about Art: Illustration/Animation
    • false

      Graphic Design (Graphic Illustration) - BA (Hons) University of Suffolk, UK

      Program type
      Bachelor's
      Duration
      3 years
      Annual tuition fee
      16,406 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 11,790 GBP

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Graphic Design (Graphic Illustration)
    See all bachelor's degrees in illustration

    Associate in illustration

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      Graphic Communication: Illustration - AASc Mohawk Valley Community College, USA

      Program type
      Associate
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      6,892 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 6,892 USD

      Start date
      January, September
      Show program overview about Graphic Communication: Illustration
    • false

      Illustration - AAS-T Lake Washington Institute of Technology, USA

      Program type
      Associate
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      10,635 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 10,635 USD

      Start date
      September, January, April, July
      Show program overview about Illustration
    See all associate degrees in illustration

    Certificate in illustration

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      Botanical Illustration - Cert Merritt College, USA

      Program type
      Undergraduate certificate
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      7,950 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 7,950 USD

      Start date
      August, January, June
      Show program overview about Botanical Illustration
    • false

      Digital Imaging: Digital Illustration - Cert Berkeley City College, USA

      Program type
      Undergraduate certificate
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      7,950 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 7,950 USD

      Start date
      August, January, June
      Show program overview about Digital Imaging: Digital Illustration
    See all undergraduate certificates in illustration

    Pathway in illustration

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      Illustration (Foundation) - FD Leeds Beckett University, UK

      Program type
      Undergraduate pathway
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      15,167 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 10,900 GBP

      Start date
      January, September
      Show program overview about Illustration (Foundation)
    See all undergraduate pathways in illustration

    Illustration graduate programs

    Master's in illustration

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      Graphic Novels and Children’s Book Illustration - MA University of Cumbria, UK

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      17,811 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 12,800 GBP

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Graphic Novels and Children’s Book Illustration
    • false

      Illustration - MA Teesside University, UK

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      18,090 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 13,000 GBP

      Start date
      September, January
      Show program overview about Illustration
    • false

      Illustration - MA Arts University Bournemouth, UK

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      1 year
      Annual tuition fee
      25,743 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 18,500 GBP

      Start date
      February, October
      Show program overview about Illustration
    • false

      Illustration - MFA University of Hartford, USA

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      28,115 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 28,115 USD

      Start date
      January, September
      Show program overview about Illustration
    • false

      Illustration - MA University of Portsmouth, UK
      • Part-time

      Program type
      Master's
      Duration
      2 years
      Annual tuition fee
      10,784 USD

      Fee in university's local currency 7,750 GBP

      Start date
      September
      Show program overview about Illustration
    See all master's degrees in illustration

    Future illustration careers

    Over the course of your education, you’ll have built up an impressive portfolio of work and a transferable artistic skillset. Therefore, you’ll be able to showcase your talent and potential to employers across several creative sectors.

    Illustration graduates go on to land a range of exciting positions, including:

    • Illustrator
    • Animator
    • Graphic designer
    • Printmaker
    • Concept artist
    • Cartoonist
    • Lecturer
    • Fashion designer

    Participating in relevant work experience is one of the best ways to extend your knowledge, demonstrate your passion, and step-up your employability. Speak to your university’s career service about the benefits of securing placements and internships.