| Ranking | School | State |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fashion Institute of Technology | New York |
| 2 | San Jose State University | California |
| 3 | Massachusetts College of Art and Design | Massachusetts |
| 4 | California State University, Long Beach | California |
| 5 | California State University, Fullerton | California |
| 6 | University of Central Florida | Florida |
| 7 | Virginia Commonwealth University | Virginia |
| 8 | University of Colorado, Denver | Colorado |
| 9 | University of Georgia | Georgia |
| 10 | University of Arizona | Arizona |
| 11 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | North Carolina |
| 12 | University of Utah | Utah |
| 13 | California State University, Northridge | California |
| 14 | Purdue University | Indiana |
| 15 | East Carolina University | North Carolina |
| 16 | Southern Utah University | Utah |
| 17 | University of Connecticut | Connecticut |
| 18 | Kennesaw State University | Georgia |
| 19 | Ferris State University | Michigan |
| 20 | Iowa State University | Iowa |
| 21 | Louisiana Tech University | Louisiana |
| 22 | University of Illinois at Chicago | Illinois |
| 23 | Utah Valley University | Utah |
| 24 | Queens College | New York |
| 25 | Northern Illinois University | Illinois |
Our 2024 list of the Top 25 public college illustration programs in the U.S. For an explanation of ranking criteria, click here.
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) houses the School of Art and Design, which provides 17 undergraduate majors in Art, Design and Fashion. This includes an Illustration major leading to an AAS or BFA. Program features for both options include real-world classes; mentoring workshops led by art directors and professional illustrators; participation in student art exhibitions; and access to the Society of Illustrators—the industry's top professional organization.
Students in the BFA program also have the opportunity to participate in the FIT Internship Program and/or study abroad in Florence. The BFA has two schedule options: Traditional Daytime and Evening/Weekend.
Course examples across programs include Illustration Process I-II; 2D Computer Animation; Visual Storytelling for Evolving Media I-II; Advanced Visual Story Studio; Digital Illustration Techniques; Stylistic Illustration; Illustrating the Written Word; Illustration Process I-II; Illustration Rendering Techniques; Visual Interpretation; Computer Typesetting and Design; and Advanced Pictorial Problem Solving.
The FIT Illustration BFA culminates with the Illustration Portfolio Thesis presented before faculty and peers. Graduates of the AAS are eligible to apply for admission to FIT’s Illustration BFA as well as the school’s BFA programs in Animation, Interactive Media & Game Design, Textile/Surface Design, and Toy Design.
Graduates of the Illustration BFA at Fashion Institute of Technology are prepared for immediate entry into the field or a graduate program, such as the 60 credit-hour Illustration MFA. Housed in FIT’s School of Graduate Studies, the MFA highlights field trips to studios in LA and New York; real-world projects; guest lecturers; and professional internships.
Course examples for the program include Integrating Digital with Traditional Media; Directed Projects in Illustration; Drawing for Illustration; Narrative Art; Creative Writing for Illustrators; Digital Bootcamp; Sequential Storytelling; Survey of Digital Illustration; Art is Where You Look For It: Diversifying Illustration's Application; Illustration in Motion; and The History of American Illustration. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the Studio Visits: New York or LA courses, which provide face-to-face interactions with east and west coast-based professional animators, illustrators, and art directors through in-person meetings at studios and office visits.
In the final year of the FIT Illustration MFA program, students will complete the Visual Thesis Studio course and Visual Thesis – Exhibition and Promotion. The Exhibition takes place at a gallery.
The program culminates with a Visual Thesis Exhibition at a gallery. Past projects have focused on animations, installations, children’s books, concept art, murals, reportage drawings, and graphic novels.
FIT Illustration alumni have established freelance careers and full-time employment with a wide variety of agencies, studios, and publications. Examples include DreamWorks, LucasArts, DDB, Revlon, Ogilvy, Young & Rubicam, Disney, BBDO Worldwide, Warner Bros., Hallmark, Vogue, American Greetings, and Harper’s Bazaar.
Fashion Institute of Technology opened in 1944 inside the High School of Needles Trades. On the first day of class, the school had 100 students. Today, FIT spans an entire city block and it serves approximately 8,150 students. The school is also part of the State University of New York (SUNY) System.
Programs at FIT are provided at the undergraduate and graduate levels across five academic divisions. Fashion Institute of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
The College of Humanities and the Arts at San Jose State University (SJSU) houses the Department of Design. Within the department are two paths to study Illustration including the Animation & Illustration BFA and the Design Studies BA. Students in both programs benefit from the department’s close relationships with major companies and studios such as Sony Pictures Animation, Cartoon Network, Disney, Pixar, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), DreamWorks, Hallmark, Nickelodeon, Warner Bros. Animation, and Bento Box Entertainment.
Other department benefits include access to state-of-the-art production facilities and labs; workshops, and seminars; guest lecturers and speakers from major studios; the professional internship program; and study abroad experiences.
The Animation and Illustration BFA at SJSU is a professional degree that explores traditional and 3D animation, character design, visual development, modeling, storyboarding, and physics of motion. Upper division courses for the program allow students to specialize in a focused area of interest within the illustration discipline or other area. Electives allow students to further enhance the degree.
Course examples for the program include Light and Optics; 2D Animation; Visual Storytelling; Illustration Fundamentals I-III; Visual Development; and Digital Modeling.
The Animation and Illustration BFA culminates with the Senior Project Animation/Illustration course. Consisting of six credit hours, the project will demonstrate professional competence in area of concentration. Students will present their projects in a gallery exhibition.
Graduates of the Animation & Illustration BFA program at San Jose State University are prepared to pursue careers in areas such as feature film animation, book publishing, television, game design, comics, and advertising.
Design BA students also have opportunities to work on projects in multidisciplinary teams and develop skills in animation, visual development, modeling, storyboarding, and short film production. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in the entertainment industry or for direct entry into the SJSU Animation & Illustration BFA program.
Graduates of the Animation & Illustration programs at San Jose State University have been hired at more than 135 animation, film, and game design studios. They have worked on films such as A Bug’s Life, Monsters, Inc. Finding Nemo, and Shrek. Program alumni have taught at major colleges and universities, and they work in a variety of positions at places such as Disney Animation, Electronic Arts (EA), the Cogswell Institute, Sony Pictures, Blizzard Entertainment, Pixar, Animation Mentor, Cartoon Network, Lucasfilm Animation, NBCUniversal Studios, Nickelodeon, 20th Century Fox, and Zynga.
San Jose State University was established in 1857. Located in the center of Silicon Valley, SJSU serves approximately 35,800 students enrolled in 250 areas of study at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Programs at SJSU are provided across nine colleges and dozens of departments and schools. San Jose State University is accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) has an Illustration BFA program that requires 120 credit hours of study. Housed in the Illustration Department, the BFA program provides opportunities to complete independent study, an internship, and/or a course assistantship. All options are open to upper-division students. Sophomores also qualify for the course assistantship option.
The curriculum for the MassArt Illustration BFA consists of 18 credits in Studio Foundations, 42 in Illustration, and 18 in Studio Electives. This is in addition to core education and other requirements. Course examples Media Techniques; Narrative Illustration; Digital Painting and Techniques; Word and Image; Advanced Drawing for Illustrators; Virtual 3D Illustration; Book Arts; Experimental Illustration Techniques; Black and White Illustration; Color for Illustrators; and Professional Illustration.
In the final year of the Illustration BFA program at Massachusetts College of Art and Design, students will complete the Thesis Project I: Research, Thesis Project II: Imagery, Senior Illustration, and Illustration Portfolio courses. Final student portfolios will be presented to professionals from the editorial, publishing, advertising, and corporate markets.
Graduates of the Art and Design programs at Massachusetts College of Art and Design have been hired at a variety of studios, companies, and organizations. Examples include the Hasbro, Sony Pictures Imageworks, the Whitney Museum of American Art, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), Time Inc., Discovery Channel, Museum of Fine Arts Boston, New Balance, Boston Children's Museum, PUMA, and the Attleboro Art Museum.
Massachusetts College of Art and Design is the nation’s first and only public college of art and design. Founded in 1873, the school serves approximately 1,785 students enrolled more than 40 degree, minor, and certificate programs. Approximately 155 continuing education students are enrolled in over 100 classes and workshops in all areas of art and design. Massachusetts College of Art and Design is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). MassArt is also an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
The College of the Arts (COTA) at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is one of the school’s largest and most popular colleges. Home to six separate departments, COTA employs over 250 faculty members that serve more than 3,000 students. Departments include the School of Art (SoA); Film and Electronic Arts; Design; Bob Cole Conservatory of Music; Theatre Arts; and Dance.
The School of Art at California State University, Long Beach received designation as a school in 2012. The school houses state-of-the-art facilities and work spaces, along with seven separate and customizable galleries for displaying, critiquing, and viewing student work. School of Art students also have opportunities to interact with professional working artists, as well as international travel options to support their work.
For students seeking an Illustration degree, COTA SoA has an Art BFA and Studio Art MFA. Both programs have an Illustration option. In partnership with the Department of Biological Sciences, the SoA also houses an interdisciplinary 30-unit Biomedical Illustration Prep Certificate that can be completed in just one year, full-time.
Ideal for students in art and the natural sciences, the certificate can be added to an undergraduate degree program or taken post-graduation. Course examples include Biomedical Illustration; Intermediate Life Drawing; Anatomy for Artists; Illustration 2; Computer Animation; Production for Fine Art; Introduction to Rendering; Foundational Life Drawing; and Special Studies in Illustration.
The Art BFA at California State University, Long Beach consists of 132 units and opportunities to work with peers in other options such as Animation and Pre-Production in the Digital Lab. Course examples for the program include Core Studio: Illustration 1 and 2; Storyboarding for Film and Television; Introduction Studio: Illustration – Rendering; Advanced Studio: Illustration 3 and 4; Drawing with Perspective; Production for Fine Art; Writing About Visual Art; Experimental Animation; Costumed Figure Drawing; and Illustration Senior Project—the culminating experience for the program.
Other program features include courses taught by industry professionals; participation in workshops led by faculty and visiting artists; opportunities to complete an internship at a local, regional, or national studio; and study abroad experiences in places such as Ireland, Germany, and Spain.
The Studio Art MFA at California State University, Long Beach is an interdisciplinary program that requires 60 units of study. This includes 29 units in the Illustration option. Course examples include Graduate Studies: Illustration; Graduate Studies: Image as Text; and Graduate Studies: Professional Practices for Visual Communication. All graduate Studio Art students will participate in the Final MFA Exhibition.
Graduates of the Art programs at California State University, Long Beach are prepared to pursue positions in fields such as editorial art, comic book publishing, graphic novels, book art, textile design, newspaper publishing, product and toy design, animation, editorial art, games, educational illustration, live action film, advertising, biomedical illustration, and gallery exhibition production.
California State University, Long Beach was established in 1949 as Los Angeles-Orange County State College. One of the 23 campuses of the California State University System, CSULB serves approximately 39,965 students enrolled in more than 300 programs across eight colleges. California State University, Long Beach is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
California State University Fullerton (Cal State Fullerton) is home to the College of the Arts, which houses the Department of Visual Arts. Within the department is an Art program with BFA, MA, and MFA options. Students in all programs have the option to add the Illustration studio concentration. Consisting of a combination of electives and required courses, the studio concentration prepares students for advanced roles in Illustration.
Across programs, students have access to courses such as Special Studies in Sequential Art; Digital Narrative Illustration; Writing in the Visual Arts; Computer Assisted Graphics; 3D Rigging and animation; Visual Development and Background Painting; Children’s Book Illustration; 3D Environment Modeling; Animal and Wildlife Drawing; Landscape Painting and Location Drawing; Special Studies: Artists’ Books and Art; Lighting and Look Development; The Digital Studio; Animation Production; 3D Team Production; Cartooning and Caricature; Video Art and Moving Image; and Entertainment Graphics.
All degree options feature workshops and seminars; unlimited access to state-of-the-art production studios, labs, and equipment; interactions with visiting artists; study abroad experiences; and internship opportunities with companies in California, and across the U.S.
The Art BFA at Cal State Fullerton requires 132 units to graduate. This includes 30 units in the Illustration studio concentration. The program culminates with the BFA Capstone Project, which may include works in animation, games, VR, visual effects, exhibitions, and others.
The MA program consists of 30 units, including 12 in the Illustration studio concentration. Students will complete a project and thesis (P/T) to graduate. The MA P/T consists of the development and presentation of a creative project in the concentration beyond the required coursework.
The CSUF MFA requires 60 units to graduate, including 24 units in the Illustration studio concentration. The program culminates with a solo Art Exhibit (MFA Project Exhibition).
Graduates of the Art BFA, MA, and MFA programs at Cal State Fullerton have worked with or been hired by major companies and studios such as DreamWorks, The Walt Disney Company, Lucasfilm, Cartoon Network, and Nickelodeon.
Founded in 1957, California State University, Fullerton is part of the 23 campus California State University (CSU) system. Serving more than 41,000 students, CSUF provides 110 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across eight academic colleges. California State University, Fullerton is Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
The School of Visual Arts and Design (SVAD) at University of Central Florida (UCF) has two paths to study Illustration—the Art BA with a Studio track, and the Studio Art BFA. Both programs allow students to specialize in an area such as Illustration, Drawing + Illustration, Book Arts, or Drawing. BFA students may choose wone specialization, while BA students may select several. BA and BFA students will take courses such as Art of Walt Disney; Image, Culture, and Society; Advanced Illustration; Computer Art; History of Illustration; Procedural Animation; The Illuminated Book; Experimental Painting; Art as Interface; Drawing Intensive; Type and Design; Book Binding; Visual Storytelling & Visual Development Workshop; Design Theory and Methods; and The Professional Environment.
Both the Studio Art BFA and Art BFA provide the opportunity to compete an internship and/or participate in the UCF study abroad program with experiences in places such as include London, Germany, Italy, Greece, New Zealand, France, Vietnam, Asia Pacific, Hong Kong, the UK, and Sweden.
The Studio Art BFA culminates with the BFA Exhibit/Seminar course. BA students will complete a professional portfolio of their best work.
Graduates of the Art and Studio Art programs at University of Central Florida are prepared to pursue titles such as Illustrator for Animation and Film; Comic Book Illustrator; Storyboard Artist; Game Illustrator; Medical or Scientific Illustrator; Advertising Illustrator; and Fine Artist.
UCF SVAD alumni have gone on to establish careers at places such as Pixar, Apple, DreamWorks, Google, Electronic Arts (EA), Amazon, Universal Orlando, Disney, Blizzard Entertainment, Weta FX, YouTube, and Lightstorm Entertainment.
University of Central Florida opened in 1968 as Florida Technological University. On the first day of classes, the school had less than 2,000 students. Today, UCF serves approximately 68,440 students, making it the largest university by enrollment in the state of Florida, and one of the top 10 largest universities in the U.S. The school provides 243 bachelor’s degrees, 219 master’s degrees, and 81 doctorate degrees across 13 colleges. University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The School of the Arts (VCUarts) at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) houses the Department of Communication Arts. Within the department is a BFA program that explores Illustration, 3D Modeling, Drawing, and more. All BFA degrees in the Communication Arts Department begin with the Art Foundation Program (AFO). This studio-based experience prepares students for their next three years at VCUarts. Consisting of 32 total credit hours, the AFO requires courses such as Drawing Studio; Surface Research; Focused Inquiry; Time Studio; Survey of Art; and Project Studio.
Upon completion of the AFO, students will move on to the 120-credit hour Communication Arts BFA. Course examples include Illustration Drawing and Painting; The Figure in Illustration; Color Theory; Digital 3D Studio; Concept Drawing; 3D Modeling for Concept Design; Sequential Imaging; 3D Image and Movement; Digital Drawing; Imagery for Children; Game Design, Theory and Practice; History of Visual Communications I-II; Drawing Studies; Imagery for Science Fiction and Fantasy; and Piloting the Enterprise. This course focuses personal branding, business operation, and strategic professional development.
Students in the VCU Communication Arts program may complete an internship and/or a study abroad experience for an entire semester or during the summer, winter, or spring break. Examples of study abroad locations include Dubai, Italy, South Africa, Greece, France, Korea, Argentina, and Germany.
In the final year of the BFA program, students will complete a professional portfolio that aligns with their goals.
Graduates of the Communication Arts BFA program at Virginia Commonwealth University are prepared to pursue roles across many creative industries. Program alumni have found success as Editorial Illustrators, Interactive Media Designers, Children’s Book Illustrators, Web Illustrators, Graphic Novelists, Comic Artists, Storyboard Artists, Concept Artists, Game Designers, 3D Modelers and Animators, Character and Creature Designers, Fine Artists, VFX Artists, and Art Directors.
Founded in 1838, Virginia Commonwealth University is a top 100 research university that serves approximately 28,410 students. The largest employer in Richmond, Virginia, VCU provides more than 200 academic programs across 15+ colleges, schools, and centers. Virginia Commonwealth University accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The College of Arts & Media (CAM) at University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) has a has an Illustration BFA program that prepares students for careers as independent artists or full-time, salaried positions within a wide range of creative fields and other fields. An Illustration minor is available for students in other majors such as Digital Design, 3D Graphics and Animation, or Architecture.
Consisting of 18 credit hours, the Illustration minor requires Drawing I; Two Dimensional Design; and Illustration I: Image Making. For the remaining credits, students may select from a variety of lower division Visual Arts courses and electives. Examples include Introduction to Digital Design; The Graphic Novel Workshop; Illustration II: Digital Media; Digital Painting; and The Business of Art. Students in this program may also use up to six credit hours to fulfill both major and minor requirements.
The Illustration BFA at University of Colorado Denver is a 120 credit hour program that provides opportunities to work on projects for Pixar, the Denver Art Museum, and local galleries and studios. BFA students also have access to state-of-the art digital labs, industrial equipment, and sculpture studios, as well as the CU Denver internship and study abroad programs.
Course examples for the program include Illustration I: Image Making; Illustration II: Digital Media; Illustration III: Investigative Methods; Drawing I-II; Three-Dimensional Design; The Graphic Novel Workshop; Media of Drawing; Digital Painting; Life Drawing; and The Business of Art. Students may select up to 12 semester hours of Visual Arts electives to enhance the degree or create a focus area.
The Illustration BFA program at CU Denver culminates with the Illustration BFA Thesis course (Illustration IV) worth three credits. Projects will be presented at an exhibition and students will also create a professional Illustration portfolio.
Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue positions in areas such as children’s books, comic books, interactive illustration, graphic novels, animation, editorial, game art and design, advertising, graphic design, medical illustration, architecture, and scientific illustration.
University of Colorado Denver opened in 1912 as an extension of the University of Colorado Boulder. The school became the University of Colorado Denver Center in 1965, and CU Denver in 1973, making it an independent campus. Organized into seven colleges and schools, University of Colorado Denver serves more than 15,000 students enrolled in approximately 115 degree programs. University of Colorado Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at University of Georgia (UGA) is home to Lamar Dodd School of Art, which serves more than 1,000 students. Founded in 1937 and renamed the Lamar Dodd School of Art in 1996, the Dodd School is one of the largest university art programs in the U.S. The school also has a year-round Studies Abroad program in Cortona, Italy, that has served more than 4,000 students since its inception in 1969. Past Cortona students have come from 400 institutions across the U.S.
In addition to the Cortona program, the Dodd School of Art provides the opportunity to study and live in New York for three weeks during the month of May. Known as the UGA New York MAYmester program, this experiential learning opportunity also features study abroad in places such as Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand.
All Dodd School of Art students also have the opportunity to study in other locations during the summer, winter, or spring breaks through UGA Study Abroad. More than 100 options are available across 75 overseas locations. Examples include Tuscany, Italy; Ghana, West Africa; and Costa Rica, Central America.
Other School of Art features include access to state-of-the-art production facilities, labs, and studio spaces; the opportunity to work and learn in dedicated classrooms and studio spaces; and hands-on experience through the internship program.
For students seeking an Illustration degree, the Dodd School has an Art BFA with a concentration in Scientific Illustration. This program prepares students for careers in traditional, biological, and medical illustration. Students may select nine credit hours or more in electives from areas such as Studio Art & Design; Communications & Media; and Interaction & Computing.
Course examples include Drawing I: Observation and Visual Language; Drawing and Visuality; Introduction to Visual Media; Figure Drawing/Anatomy; Computer Animation for Dramatic Media; Color Techniques in Scientific Illustration; Drawing and Visuality; Three-Dimensional Design; Ideation and Methodologies; Proseminar in Studio Art; and Color/Composition.
The Art/Scientific Illustration BFA program at University of Georgia culminates with the Studio Art Capstone; Capstone Exhibition and Professional Practices; or the Graphic Design Senior Capstone.
Graduates are prepared to work in the entertainment, medical, scientific, education, and many other fields. They have been hired at advertising agencies, publishing firms (books, journals, magazines), animation studios, software and app developers, serious games studios, legal firms, device and biotech companies, medical education firms, research institutions, the U.S. Military, science communication studios, hospitals and clinics, veterinary schools, and medical practices.
Chartered by the State of Georgia in 1785, University of Georgia is the nation’s first state university. The school serves approximately 40,115 students enrolled in more than 400 programs and options across 17 colleges and schools. University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The school is also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
The College of Fine Arts at University of Arizona (UArizona) is home to the School of Art, which houses multidisciplinary Studio Art BFA and MFA degrees. Both programs provide an Illustration, Design, and Animation (IDA) emphasis. Other program features include courses taught by professionals in illustration, book arts, motion graphics, and more; workshops; visiting artists, designers, and illustrators; and access to a studio spaces, labs, museums, and state-of-the-art facilities production facilities.
Examples include the digital imaging lab with large format printing; computer labs with Wacom Cintiq Touch screens and animation stations; University Libraries extensive book art collection; letterpress, binding, and photopolymer platemaking equipment; the Center for Creative Photography; and University of Arizona Museum of Art.
Students also benefit from team projects with local clients; participation in the Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Student Chapter, the Book Art Collective, or UA Illustration + Design, among others; internship opportunities; field trips; and study abroad experiences.
The Studio Art BFA with an IDA emphasis requires 125 units, including 42 in upper division coursework and 24 units of upper division coursework in IDA. All Studio Art majors will complete the First Year Experience (FYE), which consists of a range of workshop modules. Titles with descriptions include Amalgam (Mixed-Media); Surface (Painting and Color Theory); Propaganda (Design); Experience (Sound, Video, and Performance); Gaze (Digital Photography); and Mapping (Drawing from Observation).
Upon completion of the FYE, students will begin taking a combination of general education, art, IDA, and elective courses. Examples include Illustration Studio I-III; Picture Book Art and Design; Comics and Sequential Art; Storyboarding; Publication Design; Interactivity; Design Studio; Process and Play; Animation; Digital Illustration/Painting; Visual Narrative and the Artists Book; and Motion.
The Studio Art BFA program at University of Arizona culminates with the BFA Exhibition.
The UArizona Studio Art MFA consists of 60 credit hours. Students can expect to take courses such as Ideation; Contemporary Art: Concepts and Issues; Studio Introduction to Contemporary Art; Critical Methods; Studio Art; and Professional Practice. The program culminates with a written thesis or an original group of works presented to the public in the form of a Thesis Exhibition in the Galleries at the School of Art.
Graduates of the Studio Art programs at University of Arizona are prepared for careers in areas such as traditional book publishing, advertising, animation, game art and design, graphic novels, comic books, children’s books, television & film, editorial, advertising, graphic design, and product design.
University of Arizona is the state’s first university. Established in 1885, this land-grant institution opened with just a few students. Today, UA serves approximately 46,930 students, making it one of the state’s largest post-secondary institutions. UArizona offers more than 300 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in 150+ areas of study. Programs are provided across 21 colleges and nearly two dozen specialized schools. University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) is home to the College of Arts + Architecture (COA+A). Serving more than 1,000 students, the COA+A provides more than 30 degrees and concentrations across the Departments of Art and Art History; Music; Dance; and Theatre. The Department of Art and Art History houses four undergraduate degree programs, three major options, and an Art History minor. At the graduate level, the department has a certificate in Teaching for Art Education.
Housed in the Rowe Arts Building, the Department of Art and Art History provides access to three exhibition spaces including Side Gallery, Rowe Lower Gallery, and Upper Gallery. Students also have access to the Print Media Lab; Rowe 3D Studio; Painting and Ceramics Studios; performance spaces, Rowe Recital Hall; Macy Graphic Design Computer Lab; and Rowe Digital Fabrication Lab (RoFL).
All UNC Charlotte Art and Art History students have the opportunity to join on-campus organizations such as the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Student Chapter, Cerama, and Art & Mindfulness. The department also runs a recurring study abroad summer program in Rome and paid internship opportunities at local museums and performing arts centers.
For students seeking a degree in Illustration, UNC Charlotte has an Art BFA with a concentration in Illustration. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the Art BFA requires 120 credit hours, with 79 credit hours of required courses within the Department of Art and Art History. The Illustration concentration consists of 33 credit hours. Students can reach the remaining required credits through electives.
Course examples for the concentration include Figure and Anatomy; Narrative Illustration for the Publishing Industry; Drawing/Expression in Print Media; Visual Development: Character Design; Narrative Illustration for the Entertainment Industry; Drawing I-II; and Visual Development: Environment. Students will also take major courses such as 2D Design; Digital Foundations; 3D Design; Art History Survey I-II; 3D Design; First Year Seminar; and Contemporary Art History.
In the final year of the program, students will complete Senior Seminar and the Illustration Projects course. Final projects will be presented at the BFA Illustration Exhibition. Graduates are prepared to pursue titles such as Magazine Illustrator, Book Cover Artist, Graphic Novelist, Animation Illustrator, Game Artist, Scientific and Medical Illustrator, Comic Book Artist, Storyboard Artist, and Poster Artist.
Founded in 1946, University of North Carolina at Charlotte serves approximately 30,300 students, making it the third largest school in the 16-campus UNC System. This public research university provides more than 170 programs across nine colleges. University of North Carolina at Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The College of Fine Arts at University of Utah (The U) is home to the Department of Art & Art History, which houses an Art BFA program with an emphasis in Illustration. Program features include hands-on courses and projects; summer study abroad programs that focus on education in drawing and printmaking; and access to the ArtsForce program—a workshop- and events-based initiative that connects students to mentors, peers, and faculty members for professional development and networking.
Students in all majors are required to complete the First Year Studio Foundations Program, which includes courses such as Introduction to Visual Language and Introduction to Art History. After the first year, students have the opportunity to customize their own path within their chosen emphasis and select projects that support their academic and career goals.
In the Illustration emphasis consists of 56-62 credit hours. Students will explore concept development strategies, Illustration industry practices, and narrative techniques. Course examples include Illustration: World and Voice; Life Drawing; Illustration: Narrative Approaches; Typography 1: Form and Space; Intaglio I; History of Film and Media Arts; Figure Painting; and History of Graphic Design.
The Art BFA with an Illustration emphasis culminates with the Illustration Capstone. By the end of this course, students will have a website with a portfolio of work and marketing materials such as business cards, postcards, and other promotional materials.
Graduates are prepared to pursue titles such as Illustrator, Children’s Book Illustrator, Fine Artist, Comic Book Artist, Advertising Illustrator, Storyboard Artist, Scientific Illustrator, Art Director, Concept Artist, Gallery and Exhibition Designer, Editorial Illustrator, Book Illustrator, Character Designer, Fashion Illustrator, Art Journalist, Surface Designer, Visual Artist, Printmaker, and Art Professor.
Founded in 1850, University of Utah is the state’s public flagship institution. A top-tier research university, The U serves 35,000+ students enrolled in more than 200 programs across 17 colleges and schools. University of Utah is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is home to the Department of Art. Within the department are several paths to study Illustration. At the undergraduate level, students can earn an Art BA. Graduate students can enroll in the MA or MFA in Visual Arts. All paths provide the opportunity to specialize in Illustration.
Across programs, students benefit from club events and guest speakers; opportunities to study abroad in places such as the UK, Spain, France, Italy, and Japan; internships at local and nationwide studios and galleries; portfolio reviews; and the opportunity to join student organizations such as the CSUN Illustration Society and IntersectLA (IXLA). In addition, all programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
The Art BA at California State University, Northridge combines Art and Design coursework with Liberal Arts studies. Course examples include Illustration I-III; Beginning Three-Dimensional Design; Digital Illustration; Design for Entertainment Advertising; History of Contemporary Art; Illustration Materials and Techniques; World Arts: Asia; Core Art Studio; and Drawing. The program culminates with the Senior Projects and Lab course.
The Visual Arts MA at California State University, Northridge is a 30-unit program that can be completed in one to two years. Course examples include Studio Problems: Illustration; Advanced Studio Problems: Illustration; Art Analysis and Criticism; Advanced Studio Problems: Graphic Design; Advanced Studio Problems: Video/Digital Art; and History and Philosophy of Art.
The Visual Arts MA Program culminates with the Graduate Project, which consists of the Spring Group Exhibition and/or Performance of the students work.
The CSUN Visual Arts MFA is the highest degree awarded in the field. Consisting of 60 units of study, the program can be completed in two or three years depending on the student’s course load. All MFA students have access to private, on-campus studios, and the opportunity to specialize in one to three areas. Course examples for the program include MFA Seminar; Art Analysis and Criticism; Studio Advanced Studio Problems: Illustration; Studio Problems: Drawing; Advanced Studio Problems: Video/Digital Art; Advanced Studio problems: Graphic Design; and Graduate Directed Research.
The Visual Arts MFA program culminates with the Graduate Project, which consists of the Spring Group Exhibition and/or Performance of the students work.
Graduates of the Art and Visual Arts programs at California State University, Northridge are prepared to pursue careers across industries. CSUN alumni have been hired at places such as Walt Disney, MGM Studios, Amazon, Universal Pictures, Kaiser Permanente, Google, Paramount, NBC, Apple, Bank of America, Northrup Grumman, Microsoft, Netflix, Warner Bros., Fox Sports, Amgen, and Capitol Latin.
California State University, Northridge dates back to the fall of 1956 when it established as the San Fernando Valley campus of the Los Angeles State College of Applied Arts and Sciences. Serving more than 36,000 students, today, CSUN is one of top five largest institutions in the 23-campus California State University System and one of the largest universities in the nation.
CSUN provides more than 250 majors and degree programs across nine colleges. California State University, Northridge is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
The College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University (Purdue) is home to the Patti & Rusty Rueff School of Design, Art, and Performance. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the Rueff School houses the Department of Art and Design and a flexible Integrated Studio Arts BFA. Students in this program can major or minor in Drawing and Illustration.
BFA students can select courses in illustration, computer art, drawing, mixed media, life drawing, painting, printmaking, silkscreen, alternative processes, relief, monoprint, art history, etching, and lithography. To enhance the degree students can take electives in areas such as textiles, sculpture, metals, and ceramics.
Other program features include access to state-of-the-art studios, labs, and production spaces; field trips to conferences, galleries, museums, and design exhibitions; workshops, lectures, and demonstrations by visiting artists and designers; and access to more than 500 special interest clubs and student organizations such as the American Institute of Graphic Arts and Textile Art at Purdue (TAP). In addition, all BFA students may apply for a summer internship or participate in the co-op program.
Graduates of Fine Arts BFA program at Purdue University are prepared to pursue careers in illustration, animation, publishing, filmmaking, video games, multimedia production, book publishing, comic books, photojournalism, and education, among others. Program alumni are also prepared to seek positions at museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions.
Purdue University is Indiana’s only land-grant university. Established in 1869, the school has campuses and centers across the state, as well as Purdue University Global and Purdue University Online. The main campus in West Lafayette, Indiana serves approximately 52,210 students, making it the second largest university in the state. Students at this location come from all 50 states and nearly 130 countries.
Purdue provides more than 400 programs across 13 colleges and schools. Approximately 11% of all students at Purdue attend Purdue Polytechnic Institute, which provides 30 BS programs and more than 20 graduate degrees. Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
East Carolina University (ECU) is home to the College of Fine Arts & Communication (CFAC). Within the CFAC is the School of Art and Design (SoAD), which serves approximately 500 students. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design since 1962, the SoAD also has 45+ faculty members that deliver five undergraduate, graduate, and minor programs.
Among SoAD’s undergraduate programs is a 120 credit hour Art BFA with an Illustration concentration. Students in this program will complete the 30 credit hour Common Core, which includes courses such as Form, Space, and Color; Visual Organization; Translation as Making; Topics in Multidisciplinary Art; and the Art and Design Capstone. The concentration requires 30 credit hours as well, including courses such as Illustration I: Survey; Illustration II: Concepts and Metaphors; Illustration III; Illustration Principles; Illustration IV: Professional Practice; and Illustration V: Portfolio.
In addition, the concentration, students are required to select up to three courses from five different emphasis areas, and 18 credit hours of electives. Emphasis areas include Animation; Graphic Design; Painting; Printmaking; and Textile Design. ECU’s School of Art and Design also provides interdisciplinary studios and coursework in Book Arts, Letterpress, and Community Arts.
Other SoAD features include internships with local, regional, and national companies; the Art and Design in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) study abroad program; additional study abroad experiences in places such as Tuscany and Poland; and participation in the BFA Exhibition.
Graduates of the Art BFA program at East Carolina University are prepared to pursue roles across many creative industries. Sample job titles include Children’s Book Illustrator, Comic Book Artist, Graphic Novelist, Storyboard Artist, Game Artist, Concept Artist, Exhibition Designer, Advertising Illustrator, Textile Designer, Printmaker, Muralist, Exhibition Designer, Fine Artist, Educator, Surface Designer, and Freelance Illustrator.
Founded as a teacher training school in 1907, East Carolina University serves approximately 26,785 students, making it the fourth largest institution in the University of North Carolina System. ECU students come from all 100 North Carolina counties, 46 states, and the District of Columbia. ECU provides more than 270 degree and certificate programs across 19 colleges and schools. East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Southern Utah University (SUU) is home to the College of Performing and Visual Arts (CVPA), which houses the Department of Filmmaking, Art & Design. Within the department is a Studio Art BFA with an Illustration emphasis, and an Illustration minor. Across programs, students benefit from participation in critiques and discussions; workshops and seminars; opportunities to exhibit works; and the opportunity to complete an internship and/or study abroad experience.
The Studio Arts BFA requires 120 credit hours, including 51 credits in Illustration and Illustration electives. The Illustration minor requires 19.5 credit hours. Course examples for this program include Visual Development Studio; American Art; 2D Design; Drawing I-II; Narrative Illustration; Conceptual Illustration. Upon completion of the Illustration minor, students are prepared to pursue entry-level positions in the field or enroll in a BFA program, such as the SUU Studio Arts BFA.
SUU Studio Arts BFA students may focus in an area within Illustration or other creative area through required free electives. Students may choose up to 14 credit hours of free electives to include upper- level courses numbered 3000-4999. Course examples for the Program include Art Insights; Narrative Illustration; Painting I-III; Visual Development Studio; 3D Digital Illustration; Motion Graphics; Conceptual Illustration; and Aqueous Media.
In the final year of the Studio Arts BFA Program at Southern Utah University, students will complete Senior BFA Studio I: Professional Practices and Portfolio Systems, and Senior BFA Studio II: BFA Exhibition and Portfolio Completion. This is the culminating experience for the program.
Graduates of the Studio Arts/Illustration BFA Program at Southern Utah University are prepared for careers in areas such as traditional book publishing, animation, comic books, game art and design, graphic design, film and television, toy design, advertising, architecture, fine arts, and education.
Some Studio Arts alumni go on to launch their own studios or freelance careers. Program alumni go on to enroll in a graduate at Southern Utah University and other top universities across the U.S.
Founded in 1897, Southern Utah University serves more than 15,000 students enrolled 180+ degree and certificate programs. SUU also provides a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology—the only Psy.D. program in the state of Utah. The academic programs at SUU are housed across seven colleges and dozens of departments. Southern Utah University has been continually accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) since 1933. The school is also an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
University of Connecticut (UConn) is home to the School of Fine Arts, which houses the Department of Art and Art History. Fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the department has Art BA and BFA programs that provide the opportunity to study Illustration through a concentration (BFA) or electives (BA).
Consisting of 120 credit hours, the BFA program curriculum explores both traditional approaches in Illustration and new technologies. The Illustration/Animation concentration allows students to create projects in digital and analog environments including character and environment design; children’s illustration; 2-D and stop-motion animation; comics, cartoons, and graphic novels; design for products; book, editorial, and institutional illustration; and self-promotion.
Also consisting of 120 credits, the BA includes 24 Art Studio elective credits, allowing students to create an informal focus in Illustration. Students in this program have access to courses such as Illustration; Animation Fundamentals; Topics in Illustration; Life Drawing; Studio Concepts; Introduction to Digital Media; Graphic Design; and Going Pro: Professional Practices in Illustration and Animation.
In addition to a variety of courses, both BA and BFA students benefit from small class sizes; collaborative, project based-learning; study abroad opportunities; and access to state-of-the art computer labs, exhibition spaces, and art-making studios in the UConn Bishop Center. Facilities include a high-powered Cintiq computer lab for high-end 3D work, a speedy render farm, and a brand new 688 ft Motion Capture Studio.
In addition, each year UConn hosts an on-campus Internship Fair. Many internships lead to full-time employment upon graduation. UConn students have interned at places such as NASA, Disney, NBC Sports, the Connecticut Museum of Natural History, The Bronx Zoo, GE, and the State Department of Education.
The Art BA and BFA programs at University of Connecticut culminate with the Senior Project course and participation in the Senior Show. Graduates are prepared to pursue roles across industries.
UConn Art BA and BFA alumni typically land positions within six months of graduation. Program alumni have gone on to successful careers as Children’s Book Illustrators, Product Designers, Comic Book Artists, Editorial Illustrators, Cover Art Designers, Cartoonists, Storyboard Artists, Character and Environment Designers, and Graphic Novel Illustrators.
UConn Illustration/Animation alumni are employed at major studios and companies such as Pixar, Google Creative, Lego, YouTube Gaming, and Stoopid Buddy Studios.
Some graduates go on to be accepted into MFA programs at the places such as Yale University (Yale); Goldsmiths, University of London (Goldsmiths); Royal College of Art (RCA); Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD).
University of Connecticut began as Storrs Agricultural School in 1881. The school opened with just three faculty members and 13 male students. Today, UConn’s more than 18,000 faculty and staff members serve a coed population of approximately 32,100 students across the main campus at Storrs, and four regional campuses.
Programs at UConn are administered across 14 colleges and schools. Options include eight undergraduate degrees in 123 majors, 17 graduate degrees in 95 fields of study, and six professional degree programs. University of Connecticut is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
The School of Art and Design (SOAAD) at Kennesaw State University (KSU) provides 12 undergraduate degree programs, two minors, and four graduate programs to more than 1,200 students. As part of the SOAAD, all programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
Options for Illustrators include the Art BFA with concentrations in Illustration and Comics and Sequential Art. Program features include access to state-of-the-art resources and brand new computer studios in the Visual Arts Building; interactions with visiting artists; participation in summer art intensives; and internship opportunities.
BFA students also benefit from KSU’s partnership with ESA Saint-Luc in Bruxells, Belgium. This long-running study abroad program provides unique opportunities such as the Comics curriculum at ESA St. Luc Brussels.
Consisting of 120 credit hours, the interdisciplinary BFA emphasizes Studio Art Practice and Fine Arts. Students in both concentrations will complete general education and beginning courses such as Drawing I-II; Renaissance Through Modern Art; Computer Applications in Art; and English Composition.
Course examples for the Illustration concentration include Illustration I-II; 2D Design and Color Theory; Electronic Illustration; Printmaking; Computer Applications in Art; Advanced Illustration and 3D Design. Course examples for the Comic and Sequential Art concentration include Sequential Art I-II; Figure Drawing; Illustration I; Storyboarding and Composition; Electronic Illustration; and 3D Design.
All BFA students have the option to enhance the degree by adding an additional concentration in an area such as Graphic Communications, Painting and Drawing, Art History, Photography, Printmaking, Textile and Surface Design, Art History, Ceramics, or Art Education.
The Art BFA program at Kennesaw State University culminates with the Senior Exhibition. Graduates will leave the program with a professional portfolio of their best work. Program alumni go on become Illustrators for Animation, Television, and Film; Book Designers; Product and Packaging Illustrators; Multimedia Artists; Art Directors; Storyboard Artists for Animation and Games; and Advertising Illustrators.
Founded in 1963 as Kennesaw Junior College, Kennesaw State University serves approximately 43,270 students, making it the third largest university in Georgia. More than 180 degree and certificate programs options are provided across 11 colleges, KSU Journey Honors College, and two suburban campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta, Georgia. Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Ferris State University (Ferris State) is home to Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD), which provides several paths to study Illustration. Degree options include BFAs in Illustration, and Life Sciences & Pre-Medical Illustration. Non-degree programs include a 15 credit-hour Illustration minor and a certificate in Natural Science Illustration.
Students in the Illustration minor will take courses such as Introduction to Illustration and Illustration Techniques. The program allows students to select three credits of Illustration electives. Examples include Children’s Book Design; Publication Illustration; and Graphic Design for Illustrators.
The Natural Science Illustration Certificate is a 23 credit hour, studio-focused program that provides opportunities to collaborate with and work for museums, nature preserves, museums, and zoos. Course examples for the program include Introduction to Illustration; Rendering; Natural Science Illustration; and Botanical Illustration. The certificate is open to Illustration BFA students.
The Illustration BFA at Ferris State/KCAD was established in the early 1960s. The program explores both traditional and emerging media, with 27 required semester hours of supportive studio courses and 39 credit hours of major studio courses. Course examples include Illustration I-III; Advanced Inking; 3D Illustration; Graphic Design/Illustration; Narrative Perspective; Rendering; Digital Illustration Painting; Observational Field Sketching; Natural Science Illustration; Contemporary Fashion Illustrating; and Illustration Professional Practice.
Other program features include access to KCAD galleries and the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA); state-of-the-art labs, studios, and production facilities; participation in the KCAD Illustration Society; and internships during the academic year and summer months; and summer travel/study experiences.
The Illustration BFA program at Ferris State University culminates with a professional portfolio of the student’s best work. Graduates are prepared to pursue titles such as Children’s Book Illustrator, Game Artist, Editorial Illustrator, Cartoonist, Storyboard Artist, Mural Designer, Exhibit Designer, Creative Director, and Fashion Illustrator. Some program alumni go on to launch their own studios or freelance businesses.
The Life Science and Pre-Medical Illustration BFA at Ferris State University combines general education courses with coursework that explores medical illustration methods, rendering, computer-aided 3D design, traditional media illustration, medical terminology, computer animation, and drawing.
Courses for this professional, three-year program are delivered through Ferris State University, KCAD, Michigan State University, and Grand Rapids Community College. Course examples include Medical Illustration Methods I-III; Medical Illustration Animation; Graphic Design for Illustrators; Dialogue & Personality; Illustration Techniques; Illustration Digital Methods; and Professional Practices for the Medical Illustrator.
The Life Science and Pre-Medical Illustration BFA at Ferris State University culminates with the Advanced Problems in Biomedical Art Capstone. Graduates are prepared to pursue graduate studies or a career as a Life Sciences Illustrator, Illustrator for Animation and Film, Advertising Illustrator, and many others.
Program alumni freelance Medical Illustrators, Animators, Digital 3D Modelers, and Medical Legal Illustrators. Some graduates also work in animation and patient data segmentation for 3D printing, UI/UX design, and storybook illustration.
Ferris State University was established in 1884. Located in Big Rapids, Michigan, the school serves more than 10,000 students enrolled in more than 190 programs across seven degree-granting colleges. Ferris State university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Founded in 1928, Kendall College of Art and Design is one of the seven colleges within Ferris State University. Located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, KCAD serves 565 students enrolled in dozens of specialized undergraduate degree programs and several graduate and certificate programs. As part of Ferris State University, Kendall College of Art and Design is accredited by the HLC. KCAD is also an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
The Department of Art and Visual Culture at Iowa State University (Iowa State) has BA, BFA, and MFA programs that focus in fine arts and visual culture. Housed in the College of Design, the department provides opportunities for students in all programs to tailor the curriculum to their specific interests through a minor, electives, concentration, or second major. Whether its Illustration, Painting =, or Drawing, student can even combine approaches to reach their education goals.
The department’s Illustration minor is also customizable, with access to courses that explore graphic novels, illustration for books, advertising and concept art for game design and film, and magazine illustration. The Illustration minor can be taken alone or added to majors such Art & Design, Integrated Studio Arts, Graphic Design, Interdisciplinary Design, or Landscape Architecture. Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared for studio careers, freelance work, or to launch their own studios.
In partnership with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS), College of Design provides two additional options for students interested in Illustration—the Biological and Pre-Medical Illustration BA (BPMI BA), and a 17 credit hour BPMI minor with both traditional illustration and scientific illustration coursework. The BPMI BA program is also part of the Department of BPMI, which accepts just 45 students annually.
While the BA focuses on biological and pre-medical illustration, students will also develop visual design skills, take courses in visual communications, and learn the latest artistic techniques. The skills developed can be applied to other creative fields such as Drawing, Animation, Painting, and Photography.
Course examples for the BPMI BA include Drawing II; Illustration as Communication; Rendering and Virtual Photography; Illustration and Illustration Software; Computer Modeling; and Business Communication. Students can also select additional Illustration and other related courses through electives. Examples include History of Comics; Digital Imaging; Character and Scene Design; Independent Study in Illustration; Sequential Narrative Drawing; Principles of 3D Animation; and Advanced Drawing.
All College of Design students at Iowa State will complete the College of Design Core. Consisting of 13 credit hours, the Core requires Digital Design Literacy; Drawing I; Design in Context; Design Studio I; Design Collaborative Seminar; and Design Exchange Seminar I. In addition, all College of Design students have the opportunity to complete an internship and/or participate in the Rome Program.
During this semester-long experience, students will attend classes in the college’s studio facilities in the historic center of Rome at the Palazzo Cenci Bolognetti—a 16th-century building located in the Piazza delle Cinque Scole near the Tiber River. Students will also collaborate with local art and design professionals and produce creative works in a fully licensed facility.
Iowa State University graduates enjoy a 100% employment (or graduate school) rate within six months of graduation. Design students are prepared to pursue positions across industries. Examples include children’s book publishing, entertainment (animation, film, television), scientific and medical illustration, traditional publishing, game design, comic book publishing, and advertising.
Founded in 1858, Iowa State University is the nation’s first designated land-grant institution. The school serves approximately 30,180 students enrolled in more than 100 majors across six undergraduate colleges, and 200+ fields of study leading a graduate or professional degree. Programs at Iowa State are housed across a total of eight colleges and schools, and around 150 academic departments. Iowa State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Louisiana Tech University (Louisiana Tech) is home to the College of Liberal Arts (COLA), which houses the School of Design (SOD), and the College of Engineering & Science (COES). Both provide several pathways to study Illustration. The SOD has a multidisciplinary Studio Art BFA program with coursework in areas such as Illustration, Digital Media; Drawing; Video; and Printmaking. Students in this program have the opportunity to work with advisors to customize a focus in Illustration or other area.
Studio Art majors can also develop skills in a fast-growing area of Illustration by adding the Pre-Medical Illustration concentration or 45 credit hour minor.
Other Studio Art program features include participation in workshops and seminars; access to dedicated studio spaces at the FJ Taylor Visual Arts Center, which is equipped with Illustration, Drawing, Digital Media, Design, Photography (digital, lighting, darkroom), and Painting studios; interactions with visiting artists; internship and study abroad opportunities in Florence, Italy; and the three-course Professional Practices Curriculum.
The Studio Art program at Louisiana Tech culminates with the BFA Senior Exhibition. Graduates will enter the job market with a professional portfolio of their best work.
The College of Engineering & Science at Louisiana Tech University provides a unique degree program that combines art and biomedical engineering. The Biomedical Engineering BS program (BSBM) with a Pre-Medical Illustration concentration features courses such as Illustration Materials and Techniques; Drawing; Fine Arts Appreciation; Special Topics in Pre-Medical Illustration; Digital Painting; Practice in Scientific Visualization; Graphic Design Software; Studio Problems; Figure Drawing; and Medical Device Design.
The BSBM at Louisiana Tech requires 128 credit hours to graduate. The program is Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Louisiana Tech University graduates enjoy a near-perfect 97% placement rate. Alumni have been hired at companies such as Disney, Amazon, Boeing, Nissan, Dell, Capital One, and IBM.
Louisiana Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Founded in 1894, the school serves approximately 11,040 students enrolled in over 70 degree programs concentrated in dozens of majors and fields of study. Programs at Louisiana Tech are housed in the Colleges of Applied and Natural Sciences (ANS), Business (COB), Education (COE), Engineering & Science (COES), and Liberal Arts (COLA).
The College of Applied Sciences at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) houses a Biomedical Visualization MS (BVIS MS) that is just one of five accredited graduate programs for Medical Illustration in North America. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and over 100 years old, the BVIS program provides plenty of opportunities to develop traditional illustration, animation, and other skills through electives such as Illustration Techniques; Animation I-IV; Advanced Illustration Techniques; Advanced Serious Game Development; Immersive Interactive Visualization; 3D Space I: Modeling (Maya); Visual Learning & Visual Thinking; Modeling I-III; 360 Animation; Surgical Illustration; and Visual Storytelling in Biomedical Visualization.
Other program benefits include partnership with other medical programs, professional medical societies, medical advertising agencies, pharmaceutical companies, museums, animation studios and software that allow students to gain real-world, hands-on experience; access to state-of-the art studios, labs, and production facilities; and seminars, independent study, and workshops.
Graduates of the BVIS MS at UIC go on to become Illustrators or Science Visualization Specialists in areas such as medical illustration, interactive media, animation, game design and development, virtual and augmented reality, and haptics. Many program alumni also become board certified as Certified Medical Illustrators through the Association of Medical Illustrators.
University of Illinois at Chicago serves approximately 33,520 students, making it the largest university in the Chicago area. With roots dating back to 1859 when the Chicago College of Pharmacy was founded, UIC provides more than 250 degree programs and 85 minors across 16 academic colleges. The University of Illinois at Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The School of the Arts (SOA) at Utah Valley University (UVU) serves more than 1,800 students making it one of the largest art schools in the state. More than 20 SOA programs are housed across four departments including Art & Design; Music; Theatrical Arts for the Stage and Screen; and Dance.
Across departments, students have opportunities to intern at place such as Paramount Pictures Studio; The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), New York Public Theater; National Gallery of Art, Washington; and Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (Utah MOCA). Students also have opportunities to complete an international internship in places such as the UK, Italy, South Korea, and Germany.
The SOA Department of Art and Design at Utah Valley University has two paths to study Illustration: the Art and Design AAS and the Art and Design BFA. The Art and Design AAS is a two-year degree that provides an emphasis in Design/Illustration. Course examples include Illustrative Media Techniques I-II; Observational Drawing; 3D Modeling; Imagination and Visual Literacy; and Digital Painting. Students will complete 63 credit hours to graduate.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level jobs in Illustration for publishing firms, film studios, animation studios, advertising agencies, game design studios, design firms, and graphic design studios. Program alumni are also prepared for entry into UVU’s Art and Design BFA program.
Consisting of 120 credit hours, the Art and Design BFA at Utah Valley University is a professional program that provides an emphasis in Illustration. Areas explored include Traditional Illustration, Digital Illustration, and Animation. Course examples include Narrative Illustration; 2D and 3D Design; Illustrative Media I-II; Computer Graphics Applications; Conceptual illustration; 3D Modeling; Advanced Illustration; Figure Drawing I-III; Digital Painting; and The History of Illustration.
Electives allow students to focus in an area of interest within Illustration. Elective examples include Children’s Book Illustration; 2D Animation for Illustration; Sequential Illustration; Digital Painting II; Character Design; 3D Texturing and Rendering; Environment Design; and 3D Sculpting.
The Art and Design BFA culminates with the BFA Project, which focuses on the development and execution of a gallery exhibition or professional portfolio. This includes collaborative work with a gallery or museum professional in preparation of the exhibition's public viewing.
Graduates of Art and Design BFA program at Utah Valley University are prepared to pursue advanced roles at publishing companies, animation studios, printing companies, graphic design studios, toy design and development companies, game design studios, newspapers and magazines, film studios, and advertising agencies. Some UVU Art and Design alumni go on to launch their own studios or freelance businesses, while others continue on to graduate school.
Utah Valley University was established in 1941 as Central Utah Vocational School (CUVS). The school’s primary function was to provide war production training. Today, UVU serves a record 44,653 students making it the largest public university in the state. The school provides more than 200 degree and certificate programs across eight colleges and schools. Utah Valley University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Queens College is home to the School of Arts (SoA). Founded in 2022, the SoA provides a Design BFA with a concentration in Animation and Illustration. The school also has a 21 credit hour Animation and Illustration minor that can be added to any major. The Design BFA with an Animation and Illustration concentration requires 120 credit hours. Students in this program will take required courses such as Design I-III; Illustration I; VT: Introduction to Digital Animation; and Basic Software for Design.
The concentration allows students to select courses from a list of close to 40 options. Examples include Illustration II; Children’s Book Illustration; Graphic Novel I-II; Storyboarding and Storytelling; Book Design and Production; Game Design; Animation and 3D Modeling; Publication Design; Traditional Animation; Design Thinking; Creative Coding; Introduction to Adobe Illustrator; and Advertising Design.
In addition to a variety of Illustration and other related courses, the Queens College Design BFA program has a network of internships that allow students to gain real-world experience while building their professional resume and receiving college credit. Graduates are prepared to pursue positions in animation, illustration for entertainment, game art and design, book publishing, comic books, advertising, magazine and newspaper publishing, fine art, and more.
Founded in 1937, Queens College is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) System. QC serves over 19,000 students enrolled in bachelor’s and master’s degrees in over 170 areas. Queens College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Northern Illinois University (NIU) is home to the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA). Within the CVPA are three schools including Art and Design; Theater and Dance; and Music. An institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) since 1969, the School of Art and Design has an Art Studio and Design BFA program with an Illustration specialization.
Led by professional artists who are active in the Illustration and Scientific/Medical Illustration fields, the BFA program begins with courses such as Drawing Foundation I; 2-D Foundation; and 3-D Foundation. Upon completion of foundation coursework, students will move on to courses such as Beginning Illustration; Introduction to Visual Communication; Beginning Life Drawing; and Intermediate Illustration.
In the junior and senior years of the NIU BFA program, students will take upper division courses such as Computer Vector Applications for Illustration; 2D Animation; Advanced Illustration; Computer Raster; Painting II; and Visual Communication.
The Art Studio and Design BFA at Northern Illinois University culminates with the Senior Project in Illustration. Graduates are prepared for graduate study or to pursue titles such as Children’s Book Illustrator, Comics Illustrator, Concept Artist for Games and Films, Advertising Illustrator, Product Designer, Editorial Illustrator, Graphic Novelist, and Scientific and Medical Illustrator.
Chartered in 1895, Northern Illinois University opened in 1899 as a teachers’ school called the Northern Illinois State Normal School. The school serves approximately 15,500 students enrolled in more than 180 programs across seven colleges. Northern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
