M.A. in Acting
The M.A. in Acting program at the Academy of Art University is an intensive and highly ...
B.F.A. in Illustration
San Francisco, California
INTAKE: Feb, Jun & Sep
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Illustration at the Academy of Art University is designed for students passionate about visual storytelling and artistic expression. This program offers a comprehensive education in various illustration techniques, preparing students for diverse careers in fields such as publishing, advertising, entertainment, and beyond. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional and digital illustration methods, providing students with the skills needed to create compelling and impactful artwork.
Curriculum: The B.F.A. in Illustration curriculum combines fundamental art principles with advanced illustration techniques. Core courses include figure drawing, color theory, composition, and visual storytelling. Students also explore specialized areas such as character design, concept art, editorial illustration, and book illustration. The program integrates studio practice with theoretical studies, enabling students to develop a unique artistic voice and build a strong portfolio. Practical assignments and projects are designed to help students refine their skills and prepare for professional work.
Research Focus: Research in the B.F.A. in Illustration program emphasizes exploring contemporary trends and innovations in the field of illustration. Students engage in research projects that investigate emerging styles, digital tools, and new applications of illustration in various media. The program encourages students to experiment with different techniques and mediums, fostering a deep understanding of how illustration can address complex themes and narratives. Research activities often involve studying the work of established illustrators and analyzing industry developments.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key aspect of the B.F.A. in Illustration program. The Academy of Art University provides students with opportunities to connect with professionals through internships, workshops, and guest lectures. Students gain real-world experience by working on projects for clients and participating in industry events. The program also includes portfolio reviews and exhibitions, allowing students to showcase their work to potential employers and industry leaders. These engagements help students build professional networks and gain insights into the illustration industry.
Global Perspective: The B.F.A. in Illustration program incorporates a global perspective by exposing students to international illustration practices and cultural influences. Through study abroad opportunities, global illustration competitions, and collaborations with international artists, students gain a broader understanding of diverse artistic approaches and trends. This global exposure helps students appreciate different artistic traditions and prepares them to work in an increasingly interconnected creative landscape.
Location
San Francisco, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 30528
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.,0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 85.
The Academy of Art University offers a range of scholarships to international students, helping to make art and design education more accessible. Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate programs, and they can significantly ease the financial burden of tuition.
International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for international students who are applying for undergraduate programs. The award amount varies, and eligibility criteria may include a strong academic background, portfolio quality, and a passion for art and design.
The Spring Show Scholarship: The Spring Show is an annual event showcasing the best works from the Academy's students. This scholarship recognizes students who have participated in this event and demonstrated exceptional talent. It can be a substantial financial aid package.
Athletic Scholarship: International students with exceptional athletic skills may be eligible for athletic scholarships. The availability and amount of these scholarships depend on the student's performance and contribution to the university's sports teams.
Academic Scholarships: The Academy of Art University offers various academic scholarships based on a student's academic performance. Students who have achieved excellence in their previous studies may qualify for these scholarships.
Portfolio Scholarships: Many scholarships are awarded based on the quality of a student's portfolio. These scholarships often require students to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their artistic skills and creativity.
Alumni Scholarships: The Academy values its alumni and offers scholarships to relatives of alumni. This scholarship may be open to international students who have family members who attended the university.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and criteria may change over time.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Illustration from the Academy of Art University are well-prepared to enter a variety of creative and artistic professions. The program equips students with a diverse skill set, enabling them to explore numerous career paths within the illustration and visual arts industry.
Illustrator: Creating visual artwork for various media, including books, magazines, and advertising. Illustrators use their artistic skills to bring stories, concepts, and ideas to life, working on projects such as editorial illustrations, book covers, and marketing materials.
Concept Artist: Designing and developing visual concepts for characters, environments, and objects in fields such as video games, film, and animation. Concept artists help shape the visual direction of projects by creating detailed artwork that guides production teams.
Storyboarding Artist: Creating storyboards for films, animations, and commercials. Storyboarding artists visualize the sequence of scenes and actions, helping to plan and communicate the visual flow of a story.
Character Designer: Designing and developing characters for animation, video games, and other media. Character designers focus on creating unique and compelling characters that fit the narrative and artistic style of a project.
Editorial Illustrator: Producing illustrations for newspapers, magazines, and online publications. Editorial illustrators create images that complement and enhance written content, providing visual interest and clarity.
Book Illustrator: Illustrating children's books, graphic novels, and other literary works. Book illustrators work closely with authors and publishers to create engaging and visually appealing images that support the text.
Freelance Illustrator: Offering illustration services on a contract basis. Freelance illustrators work with various clients on diverse projects, providing flexibility and the opportunity to explore different styles and industries.
Animation Artist: Creating artwork for animated films, TV shows, and online content. Animation artists work on character designs, backgrounds, and other visual elements that contribute to the animation process.
Art Director: Overseeing the visual aspects of projects in advertising, publishing, and media. Art directors manage design teams, develop visual concepts, and ensure that creative work aligns with project goals and client expectations.
Graphic Novelist: Writing and illustrating graphic novels and comic books. Graphic novelists combine storytelling and illustration to create immersive and visually captivating narratives.
Museum or Gallery Curator: Organizing and managing art exhibitions and collections. Curators work in museums and galleries to select and display artworks, including those created by illustrators, and to develop educational programs and events.
Visual Development Artist: Creating concept art and designs for animation and video games. Visual development artists work on setting the visual style and mood for projects, including designing environments, props, and characters.
