Program Overview

MA Illustration

The MA Illustration programme at Manchester Metropolitan University is designed for creative practitioners seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in the dynamic field of illustration. This programme is tailored for those eager to explore the impact of new technologies and innovate with traditional processes.

Course Overview

In the 21st century, advancements in technology, shifts in media consumption, and evolving industry needs have opened new opportunities for illustrators as digital content creators, interactive media specialists, environmental designers, research communicators, marketing creators, educators, e-commerce designers, animation artists, and social advocates. The programme emphasises meaningful themes such as social justice, sustainability, and health and wellbeing. Students will create thought-provoking work addressing contemporary issues and contributing to global conversations.

Course Structure

The MA in Illustration is composed of five units, totalling 180 credits.

Core Modules

• Design Thinking: This module introduces an applied understanding of how design can be used as an iterative process for creative problem solving.
• Design Practice: Graphic Behaviours: The first part of this module is intended to acclimatise students to the challenges of MA level research and practice, enabling them to identify and describe a clear direction for their postgraduate design study.
• Message / Audience / Context: This module is concerned with the development and production of a body of work realising the individual creative ambition within the fields of graphic design and art direction and illustration.
• Synthesis Project: Illustration: The Synthesis final MA module will support students to develop, resolve and present a significant body of work, located within illustrative practice.
• Art & Design: Culture & Context (MA:X): This module offers focussed opportunity for students to extend and enhance their practice by including working in a wider design research community.

Study and Assessment

• Study: Full-time: 35% lectures, seminars or similar; 0% placement; 65% independent study. Part-time: 35% lectures, seminars or similar; 0% placement; 65% independent study.
• Assessment: Full-time: 100% coursework; 0% practical; 0% examination. Part-time: 100% coursework; 0% practical; 0% examination.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum 2:2 UK undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in a related subject.
• A portfolio submission is required.
• Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 and no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.

Fees and Funding

• UK and Channel Island students: Full-time fee £12,000 per year. Part-time fee £2000 per 30 credits.
• EU and non-EU international students: Full-time fee £22,000 per year. Part-time fee £3667 per 30 credits.
• Additional costs may include books, printing, and a laptop, estimated at £400.

Careers Support and Prospects

• 93.7% of UK-domiciled, full-time, postgraduate taught graduates are employed or in further study 15 months after graduation.
• The programme cultivates highly motivated, independent, and creative thinkers who can transfer their skills into the creative marketplace, as entrepreneurial innovators, freelance practitioners, and innovative team players.

Taught by Experts

The MA Illustration is part of the Manchester School of Art at Manchester Met, supported by a department of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field. The school often links up with external professionals, helping to enhance learning and build valuable connections to the working world.