Studying illustration abroad
What is illustration?
Illustration is the art of creating visual images to communicate ideas, stories, or messages. It can appear in books, magazines, advertisements, animations, video games, and digital media. Illustration combines creativity, observation, and technical skill to bring concepts to life.
The subject draws on knowledge from art, design, visual storytelling, and digital technologies. As an illustration student, you will learn how to develop ideas, use different drawing techniques, and create images that engage audiences. Your studies may take you from traditional studios to digital workshops and animation labs.
Why study illustration abroad?
Studying illustration in another country allows you to experience new artistic styles, cultural approaches, and creative techniques. You could explore local art traditions, attend international workshops, or collaborate with artists from different backgrounds. These experiences expand your creative thinking beyond what you can learn in books or classrooms.
Learning in a different country also helps you develop valuable skills in cross-cultural collaboration. You will make international connections with fellow artists, design studios, and creative industries.
What you will study
Illustration programs usually combine practical work with theory. Key areas of study can include:
- Drawing and Painting – mastering traditional and digital techniques
- Visual Storytelling – learning how to communicate ideas through images
- Digital Illustration – creating art using software tools
- Animation Basics – understanding movement and time in visuals
- Typography and Graphic Design – combining text and imagery effectively
- Art History and Illustration Styles – studying trends and cultural influences
- Portfolio Development – preparing professional work for presentation
Many courses also include studio projects, internships with design companies, collaborative workshops, or exhibitions of student work.
Related subjects you might also like
- Graphic Design
- Animation
- Fine Arts
- Game Design
- Visual Communication
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Illustration or Visual Arts. Some programs focus more on digital techniques, while others explore traditional media and mixed methods.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Illustration, Animation, or Visual Communication. Specialisations may include children’s book illustration, digital illustration, or concept art. A PhD may be required for research or teaching careers.
Professional accreditation may also be offered by recognised design organisations, providing certification for professional practice.
Careers
A degree in illustration can lead to careers in publishing, advertising, animation, game design, and digital media. Graduates often work as illustrators for books, magazines, or online content.
Others become concept artists, storyboard creators, or visual designers. You could also work as an art director, freelance illustrator, or creative consultant.
Beyond these roles, illustration graduates may teach, organise exhibitions, or work in visual communication for non-profits and international organisations. The skills you develop are in demand worldwide, allowing you to work on projects that inspire, educate, and entertain audiences around the globe.