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BA (Hons) Illustration

Arts University Bournemouth, United Kingdom
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Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Illustration course at Arts University Bournemouth is a dynamic and creative program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the exciting world of illustration. Students will learn a wide range of techniques and mediums, including traditional drawing and painting, digital art, and printmaking, as well as the latest software and technologies. The course is designed to help students develop their own unique style and voice, while also gaining a deep understanding of the history and context of illustration. With expert teaching and small class sizes, students will receive personalized attention and support throughout their studies. Graduates of the course have gone on to successful careers in illustration, publishing, advertising, and more.

Additional Information

The course is designed for students who are passionate about illustration and want to develop their skills and knowledge in the field. The program is flexible, allowing students to explore a wide range of topics and styles, while also developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including dedicated studios, workshops, and digital labs. The course also offers opportunities for collaborative projects and real-world applications, such as working with clients and creating illustrations for publications or advertising campaigns.

Unlock Your Creativity at Arts University Bournemouth

Arts University Bournemouth is the perfect place to study illustration due to its strong reputation for creativity and innovation. The university has a long history of producing successful illustrators, and the course is designed to help students tap into this rich tradition while also developing their own unique voice and style. With expert teaching and state-of-the-art facilities, students will have everything they need to succeed in the exciting world of illustration.

Why You Should Study This Course

In consultation with the Course Leader, Level Leaders are responsible for coordinating individual units of study, and for selecting appropriate methods of delivery according to the subject matter and the student experience. The study time allocated to each unit in the course incorporates a balance of formal teaching, tutorial support, and independent learning. Theoretical, contextual, studio, and professional practices are embedded within all units. This integration dissolves the artificial barriers between these forms of engagement, such as recognizing theory in making, allowing you to fully realize your potential and truly understand the rich relationship between these elements of practice.

General Eligibility

Were looking for your portfolio to demonstrate your drawing, design, and graphic skills. Try to think about drawing in the broadest possible way: illustrators use all kinds of approaches, media, and processes in their work. Wed love to see your ability to experiment. You should include a selection of the projects that you're working on in your current course and any self-initiated work that youd like to show us. Wed like to see examples of drawing, developmental work, and finished outcomes. We are particularly interested to see your sketchbook and how research that you have done informs your practice. Your portfolio should show: Enthusiasm for exploring ideas through drawing Evidence of a thoughtful, enquiring mind and a commitment to the subject area Evidence of ability to interpret a brief intelligently and execute with innovation and flair An understanding of contemporary illustration practice and formats A willingness to engage in debate on a variety of topical and cultural issues Consider how your portfolio is organized and presented as this is important.

What You'll Study

1 Level 4 (first year)
Level 4 is all about experimentation and taking creative risks as you're introduced to the diversity of illustration. The emphasis is on learning through gaining practical experience and critical reflection, in order to form your own unique visual vocabulary. You’ll attend workshops led by our dynamic group of tutors, as well as visiting lecturers with expertise in specialist areas. You’ll undertake independent learning to help you develop ideas and outcomes through ongoing studio practice. You’ll test and discuss your ideas during tutorials and group critiques and benefit from regular formative feedback. We encourage you to undertake independent research, evaluating and analysing your findings in relation to your Illustration practice.
2 Level 5 (second year)
At Level 5, your practice will become increasingly independent and critically reflective. You’ll develop a critical understanding of key concepts and principles. We’ll ask you to create a presentation of your study proposal. Level 5 units give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the eclectic nature of imagemaking and you’ll explore the synergy between traditional and digital modes. In doing so, we encourage you to challenge the parameters of your Illustration practice. You’ll explore the evolving contents for Illustration and the place of your practice within the world that we live in. You’ll have the option of articulating your ideas through animation or printmaking, with the option of graduating with a specialist named award at the end of Level 6 – if this is appropriate to your practice and future career aspirations. The specialist awards available are: BA (Hons) Illustration (Animation) BA (Hons) Illustration (Printmaking) You’ll learn the professional skills that provide a foundation for the development of independent, entrepreneurial practitioners ready for Level 6 study.
3 Level 6 (third year)
At Level 6 the emphasis is on professionalism, ambition and innovation. You’ll be encouraged to manage your own practice. Through the ‘Pre-Major Project’ and ‘Investigative Study’, you’ll identify the subject matter and contexts that influence and position your practice. These findings will then be developed, tested and refined within the ‘Major Project’ and ‘Professional Practice’ units. We’ll encourage you to relate your research and learning to you professional aspirations and you’ll build a portfolio of work that will prepare you for career opportunities within the creative industries.

Language Requirement

  • IELTS6.0
  • TOEFL78
  • PTE58
  • Duolingo79
Academic IELTS or UKVI IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each band.

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