COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Comics and Graphic Novels programme at Teesside University combines creative storytelling, visual communication, and professional practice to prepare students for careers in comics, illustration, publishing, and the wider creative industries. In the first year, students build essential skills through modules including Collaboration Project, Comics Sequencing, Introduction to the Creative Industries, and Sequencing and Narrative. They develop teamwork, communication, project management, drawing, design, and storytelling abilities while exploring comic language, page composition, character development, and narrative structure. Students also gain an understanding of the creative industries, including networking, digital presence, sustainability, and the relationships between art, design, and media sectors. During the second year, students advance their knowledge through Advanced Comics Storytelling, Creative Research Project, Industry Project, and Working in the Creative Industries. They collaborate to create exhibitions or publish anthologies, undertake research into contemporary issues affecting the creative sector, and develop industry-focused projects relevant to their professional interests. The course encourages students to engage with real-world challenges, strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and build professional networks through collaborative and interdisciplinary activities. An optional work placement year provides valuable industry experience and helps students develop practical and transferable skills that enhance future employability. In the final year, students undertake a Major Project, producing an extensive independent piece of creative work or portfolio that demonstrates their artistic, analytical, and professional abilities. Alongside this, the Professional Practice module prepares students for employment, freelance careers, or further study by focusing on portfolio development, industry networking, and career planning. Throughout the programme, students develop their own creative voice and professional identity while gaining expertise in storytelling, visual communication, research, and project management. The course equips graduates with the knowledge, practical experience, and professional skills needed to succeed as comic creators, illustrators, storytellers, and creative practitioners in a wide range of industries.