Illustration Schools in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the original 13 colonies, so it should come as no surprise to learn that The Keystone State has an amazing history filled with so many firsts, you’ll lose count! The first piano was built here (1775), the first presidential mansion is in Philadelphia, the first daily newspaper was published in Philly in 1784, and the first baseball stadium as built in Pittsburgh. Pennsylvania is also a pioneer when it comes to technology. Did you know that Philadelphia is home to the first computer? Did you also know that Pennsylvania was the first state to list its website URL on a license plate?

In addition to a rich history and a progressive spirit, Pennsylvania is home to some of the nation’s best colleges and universities. Carnegie Mellon, Penn State, University of Pennsylvania, and Duquesne University are just a few. While these schools offer many programs for artists and designers, several others offer programs that cater to illustrators.

Pennsylvania Illustration Schools

Pennsylvania is home to several schools that offer a degree in illustration or a concentration in illustration. In addition, students interested in an advanced degree can earn an M.F.A. at one of the state’s most charming colleges. Scroll through the list below to take a look at Pennsylvania’s illustration schools and what they have to offer.

Lancaster
Pennsylvania College of Art & Design - Degrees Offered: B. F. A. Graphic Design, Illustration

Philadelphia
The University of the Arts - Degrees Offered: B. F. A. Animation, Graphic Design, Illustration, Multimedia with Concentration in Interactive Design or Motion Design

Moore College of Art & Design - Degrees Offered: B. F. A. Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography & Digital Arts

Scranton
Marywood University - Degrees Offered: B. F. A. Design with Concentration in Graphic Design, B. F. A. Studio Art with Concentration in Illustration; M. F. A. Graphic Design, Illustration

More Illustration related programs to consider:  

Employment and Salary Trends for Pennsylvania Illustrators

According to the latest report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (March 29, 2012), Pennsylvania is home to 63,230 salaried artists and designers. The population of salaried artists living in Pennsylvania has increased greatly since 2002, when the state was home to 50,340 salaried artists and designers. Average salaries for artists here are on the rise as well. In 2002, Pennsylvania’s salaried artists averaged $38,500. Today, they average $47,200.

Of the state’s 63,230 artists and designers, 240 are fine artists, down from 340 in 2002. This group includes illustrators, painters, and sculptors. They average $51,890 per year, up from $50,500 in 2002.