Program Overview

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Introduction to the BA (Hons) Illustration Program

The BA (Hons) Illustration program at Wrexham University is designed to help students develop their illustrative style and skills, preparing them for a successful career in the creative industries. This program focuses on the practical, professional, and artistic aspects of working as an illustrator, equipping students with a unique artistic voice.

Course Highlights

• The program features an experienced teaching team from the professional creative industries.
• Students have the opportunity to showcase their work in a final year degree show.
• There are opportunities to compete and build a professional portfolio.

Why Choose This Course?

The Illustration degree will help students develop their illustrative style and talent for creating creative images. The course covers the fundamental principles of illustration, including understanding the tools and creative techniques used, historical and theoretical contexts of illustration, printing and production techniques, and an understanding of the illustration industry.

What You Will Study

The program is structured into four years, each with its unique focus and set of modules.

Year 1 (Foundation Year)

The foundation year introduces students to the main elements of art and design, exploring the creative thinking process involved in various art and design disciplines. Students develop their ability to convey ideas quickly on paper.

Modules:

• Studying Skills for Success (Core): This module provides essential skills needed to thrive in a digital learning environment, including time management, research techniques, academic writing, and digital literacy, ensuring students can navigate online platforms, organize projects, and communicate ideas effectively.
• Engaging with the Arts (Core): Students explore and respond to art, developing observation and analytical skills. Through practical experiences, discussions, and research, students learn to interpret and understand different art forms.
• Visual Language (Core): This module introduces fundamental principles of creative thinking in art and design, exploring elements like composition, color, and form. Students experiment with various media and techniques to develop their artistic voice.
• Critical Thinking (Core): Focusing on practical application, this module encourages students to consider space, materials, and audience when creating art, developing problem-solving skills and refining their creative decisions.
• Art in Context (Core): Students examine how art connects to history, culture, and society, analyzing and interpreting artworks within their broader contexts, gaining a deeper understanding of how art reflects and shapes the world.
• Sequential Project (Core): This module involves showcasing work in a public gallery exhibition, allowing students to celebrate their achievements and develop confidence in presenting their art.
• Welsh for Beginners (Optional): An introduction to the Welsh language for those taking their first steps, covering basic language skills and cultural insights.

Year 2 (Level 4) - Core Skills

Level 4 introduces students to the fundamental principles of illustration, helping them develop their illustrative style. This includes understanding the tools and techniques used, historical and theoretical contexts of illustration, printing and production techniques, and an understanding of the illustration industry.

Modules:

• History and Context
• Visual Communication
• Digital Communication

Year 3 (Level 5) - Advanced Skills

Level 5 enables students to develop their unique approach to illustration in society, conceptual aspects of illustration, practical preparation of work for production, and exploring the fundamentals of running a business as a freelance illustrator.

Modules:

• Motion Graphics
• Printing and Production
• Critical Thinking

Year 4 (Level 6) - Specialization

Level 6 is negotiated with staff to present projects that demonstrate illustrative style, skills, and understanding of the illustration industry.

Modules:

• Specialist Project: Illustration
• Creative Futures: Professional Practice
• Live Brief

Admission Requirements and Application

The academic requirements for the course are 48-72 UCAS tariff points at A-Level, BTEC, or equivalent. The admissions team welcomes applications from anyone who can demonstrate a commitment to the subject and the potential to complete their chosen course successfully. Each applicant is considered on an individual basis, and those without traditional qualifications are encouraged to apply, as relevant experience and portfolio are considered.

Teaching and Assessment

There are no fixed exams. Assessment is continuous and involves every aspect of the program, with a focus on formal assessment and feedback on coursework throughout the academic year. Various assessment formats encourage learning through group seminars, tutorials, and critiques, where students present a range of work, including sketchbooks, design sheets, finished artwork, screen-based work, technical/files, journals, essays, and visual presentations.

Career Prospects

The program emphasizes personal and professional development, communication, and entrepreneurial skills, making graduates highly employable in a rapidly changing industry. Graduates have gone on to work in various roles, including freelance illustrators, book designers, comic artists, storyboard artists, character designers, and roles in the animation and games industries.

Fees and Funding

Fees are subject to change, and the amount students pay depends on several factors. Detailed information can be found on the university's fees and funding pages.

Accommodation

Wrexham University offers on-campus en-suite rooms in its student village, providing a convenient and fully furnished place to live, with Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social spaces. The campus is close to the city center, making it an ideal location for students.

Upcoming Open Days

Prospective students can attend open days to meet lecturers, learn more about the courses, see the facilities, and get a feel for student life.