COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Illustration course at Teesside University provides students with a strong foundation in creative image-making, storytelling and professional illustration practice. In the first year, students develop essential skills through collaborative projects and modules such as Experimentation and Exploration, where they study drawing, printmaking, digital painting, Photoshop, Illustrator and other experimental techniques while examining historical and contemporary illustrators to shape their own artistic voice. The Making and Visualising module introduces 3D and moving image practices, including model making, ceramics, photography, 3D printing, laser cutting, animation, augmented reality and digital storytelling. Students also gain an understanding of the creative industries, developing networking and employability skills and exploring sustainability and the structure of the global creative sector. In the second year, students strengthen their creative identity through Creative Response, working on fast-paced briefs that explore concept development, audience engagement, colour, composition, character creation and publishing processes. Industry Project modules provide opportunities to tackle real-world business challenges, competitions and collaborative activities while building a professional portfolio. Students also undertake research projects and explore enterprise and contemporary issues affecting creative industries. An optional work placement year enables students to gain valuable professional experience, enhance employability skills and improve career prospects. In the final year, students complete a self-directed Major Project, producing an extensive body of creative work or research that demonstrates their artistic and professional development. The Professional Practice module prepares students for employment or further study by helping them refine their portfolios, establish industry connections and develop career strategies. Throughout the course, students build technical expertise, creative confidence and professional networks, graduating with a distinctive visual style and the practical skills required for careers in publishing, advertising, editorial illustration, comics, animation, design and other areas of the creative industries.