Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Illustration program at Solent University equips students with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in illustration, including freelancing, working in publishing or design, or in the film industry. Through a combination of core modules, creative projects, and industry connections, students develop their visual language, understanding of the creative process, and professional practice.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BA (Hons) Illustration program at Solent University is designed for students with a creative background who are passionate about developing their visual language and understanding of the creative process in illustration and beyond. The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in illustration, including freelancing, working as an art worker in a publisher or design house, or even working in the film industry producing concept art for animation projects.
Outline:
Foundation Year
- Provides students with the creative, technical, and study skills needed to prepare for the degree.
- Modules include:
- Creative Applications
- Contextual Practice
- Materials and Methods
- Research and Ideas Development
- Personal Development Planning
- Degree-related Project
Year One
- Core modules:
- Reading Visual Culture
- Orientation
- Stereotypes and Tribes
- History and Critique
- Progression
- Visual Language
Year Two
- Core modules:
- Contemporary Art Critique
- Editorial
- The Society of Superstition and Phobia
- Critical Discourse
- Observed Community
- Narrative Book Illustration
Year Three
- Core modules:
- Professional Context
- Professional Practice
- Research and Authorship
- Negotiated Study
- Final Major Project
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a combination of visual methods, creative design projects, and assignments.
Teaching:
Students learn through directed learning, collaborative learning, and guided learning. The program is taught by an academic team that includes award-winning staff with diverse experience, many of whom have come from or are still practicing within industry as consultants, researchers, and freelance artists or illustrators.
Careers:
Graduates of the program have the opportunity to work in a variety of roles, including freelancing, working as an art worker in a publisher or design house, or even working in the film industry producing concept art for animation projects. They may also pursue further study at the postgraduate level.
Other:
- The program has access to specialist print room facilities, including screen printing, letterpress, and etching presses.
- Students have free access to dedicated studio space where they can experiment with a wide variety of media.
- The program offers opportunities for students to exhibit their work, enter industry competitions, and publish their work through the in-house printing organization.
- The program has strong links with a variety of clients, including local organizations such as Southampton City Council, and design bodies including D&AD and the Association of Illustrators.
Fees will increase for year 1.
International full-time fees:
£16,125 per year
