COURSE CURRICULUM

The Illustration BA (Hons) curriculum is structured to support students’ creative and professional development across three years of study. In Year 1, students build a strong foundation in illustration through modules such as Illustration in Context and Exploring Illustration, which introduce key creative processes, techniques, and the historical and cultural influences that shape contemporary practice. Year 2 encourages greater independence and experimentation, with core modules including Contemporary Issues in Illustration, Professional Context and Personal Direction, and Co Lab: Research, Exploration and Risk-taking. These modules help students develop critical thinking, establish their personal creative direction, and engage with collaborative and exploratory approaches. A range of optional modules allows students to tailor their learning to their interests, covering areas such as storyboarding, experimental animation, publishing, storytelling, creative coding, drawing with natural materials, ecological themes, and prop making. In Year 3, the focus shifts towards professional preparation and independent practice. Through the Independent Journal module, students critically reflect on their creative development, while Developing a Distinctive Professional Portfolio enables them to produce a refined body of work that showcases their skills, creativity, and individual style. Together, these modules prepare graduates for successful careers in the illustration and wider creative industries.