Explore illustration programs abroad
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PhD programs in
illustrationNo programs listed
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
How to study illustration abroad
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Illustration study abroad programs
Illustration undergraduate programs
Bachelor's in illustration
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Illustration (Top-up) - BA (Hons) Buckinghamshire New University, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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17,120 USD
Fee in university's local currency 12,500 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Illustration - BA Indiana Wesleyan University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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28,184 USD
Fee in university's local currency 28,184 USD
- Start date
- September, January, May
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Illustration - BA (Hons) University of Gloucestershire, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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20,106 USD
Fee in university's local currency 14,680 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Illustration - BA (Hons) University of the West of England - UWE Bristol, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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17,805 USD
Fee in university's local currency 13,000 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Illustration - BA (Hons) University of Northampton, UK
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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17,668 USD
Fee in university's local currency 12,900 GBP
- Start date
- September
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
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6,892 USD
Fee in university's local currency 6,892 USD
- Start date
- January, September
Certificate in illustration
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Botanical Illustration - Cert Merritt College, USA
- Program type
- Undergraduate certificate
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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7,950 USD
Fee in university's local currency 7,950 USD
- Start date
- August, January, June
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Digital Imaging: Digital Illustration - Cert Berkeley City College, USA
- Program type
- Undergraduate certificate
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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7,950 USD
Fee in university's local currency 7,950 USD
- Start date
- August, January, June
Pathway in illustration
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Illustration (Foundation) - FD Leeds Beckett University, UK
- Program type
- Undergraduate pathway
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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14,929 USD
Fee in university's local currency 10,900 GBP
- Start date
- January, September
Illustration graduate programs
Master's in illustration
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Illustration - MFA University of Hartford, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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28,115 USD
Fee in university's local currency 28,115 USD
- Start date
- January, September
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Illustration - MA Arts University Bournemouth, UK
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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25,337 USD
Fee in university's local currency 18,500 GBP
- Start date
- January, September
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Natural History Illustration - MA University of Newcastle, Australia
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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27,160 USD
Fee in university's local currency 35,000 AUD
- Start date
- February, July, September
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Illustration - MA University of Gloucestershire, UK
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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19,517 USD
Fee in university's local currency 14,250 GBP
- Start date
- January, September
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Illustration - MA University of Portsmouth, UK
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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10,614 USD
Fee in university's local currency 7,750 GBP
- Start date
- September
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.
