Program Overview

Introduction to the Illustration BA (Hons) Program

The Illustration BA (Hons) program at Nottingham Trent University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the field of illustration. This program is tailored to help students develop their unique artistic voice and refine their visual communication skills.

Program Details

• UCAS Code: W220
• Level of Study: Undergraduate
• Typical Offer: 104 - 112 UCAS tariff points
• Start Date: September 2026
• Duration: 3 / 4 years (with an optional placement year)
• Attendance: Full-time, with a placement year option
• Course Delivery: On-campus (City Campus)
• The program includes work placement opportunities and study abroad options.

About the Course

The Illustration BA (Hons) course is designed to help students enter the world of illustrative practice, enabling them to emerge as highly refined visual communicators. The program focuses on blending craftsmanship and aesthetic prowess across various digital and analogue platforms, mediums, and projects. It incorporates sustainability and is informed by a rich understanding of illustration's historical and cultural context.

Core Modules

The course includes a range of core modules designed to develop students' skills and knowledge in illustration. These modules cover topics such as:

• Illustration in Context: Explores key developments in the history of illustration and its historical and cultural role in communicating and challenging ideas.
• Exploring Illustration: Provides a dynamic exploration of the fundamentals of illustrative practice, including observational and imaginative drawing, and the application of digital and analogue illustrative and graphic techniques.
• Contemporary Issues in Illustration: Examines key issues in contemporary illustration, including illustration as communication, storytelling, and authenticity.
• Professional Context and Personal Direction: Focuses on industry and developing a personal direction and visual identity, introducing students to the professional world of illustration through staff and live industry briefs.

Optional Modules

A range of optional modules is available, allowing students to personalize their course and cover content related to their specific interests within the subject area. These modules may include:

• Storyboarding: Visualising the Story, Enhancing the Narrative
• Experimental Animation
• Publishing: Experimental Formats
• Telling Stories
• Exploring Creative Coding
• Drawing & Exploring with Natural Materials
• Ecological Futures: A Creative Response
• Prop Making

Placement Year Routes

• Optional Placement Year (Sandwich): Provides students with the opportunity to undertake a placement year, gaining crucial work experience and the chance to secure an additional Certificate or Diploma in Professional Practice.
• Study Abroad: Offers the option to study abroad for a full academic year or a semester during the third year, providing an exciting opportunity to experience a different national culture and teaching styles.

Assessment and Feedback

• Formative Assessment: Takes place across the academic year, providing students with an indication of their progress in relation to the learning outcomes for each module.
• Summative Assessment: Occurs at the end of each module, with all portfolio work completed on BA (Hons) Illustration modules being assessed.
• Feedback: Advice and feedback on work and progress are given at regular group tutorials and formal review points during each module.

Entry Requirements

• UK Students: Standard offer of 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications; contextual offer of 104 UCAS Tariff points.
• International Students: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications, with additional requirements for English language proficiency.
• Portfolio: A digital portfolio is required as part of the application process.

Fees and Funding

• UK Students: ｣9,790 per year, with a reduced fee of ｣1,905 for the placement year.
• International Students: ｣18,700 per year, with a reduced fee for the placement year.
• Scholarships: Available for international students, up to 50% of tuition fees.

Careers and Employability

The course is designed to equip students with the skills and experience needed to work as professional illustrators or in related roles within the creative industries. Industry connections include leading publishers and organizations, providing opportunities for live briefs, competitions, and placements.

Campus and Facilities

Students will be based in the new Design & Digital Arts Building, with access to industry-standard facilities, including a virtual production studio, collaborative studio spaces, and future technology suites.

Applying

Applications are made through UCAS, with a requirement for a digital portfolio and potentially an online interview. International students may have additional requirements, including English language proficiency tests.