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School of Art, Design and Architecture

BA (Hons) Illustration

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UCAS tariff 104 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code W222
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth

Come and study in lively, purpose-built studios surrounded by other creative students and award-winning staff. We will help you forge your visual voice to succeed in today's expanding creative industries. You set your work in a global context through such activities as briefs centred on UN Sustainability Goals, study trips and taking part in the optional Global Exchange programme (including Japan) to gain new perspectives and broaden your cultural references.

Careers with this subject
The course will help you develop a range of skills that will enable you to work in the creative world as an individual and as part of a larger organisation, including:
  • ideas generation and development
  • critical analysis and writing skills
  • research practice
  • independence and teamwork
  • creation of effective visual solutions.
Our students and graduates have gained international recognition as illustrators, designers, animators, comic authors and educators.
Careers Service
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements and networks, working with the academic staff teaching on your course.
We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the Careers Service space within the Student Hub.
We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.

Key features
  • Explore the excellent resources that are on offer to you, including digital software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere, After Effects and Animate), 3D software and Virtual Reality immersive media, and traditional life drawing, printmaking in silkscreen, lino, woodcut, etching, risograph, bookbinding, ceramics and letterpress.
  • Get insight into the industry from visiting speakers across the breadth of illustration. We have a special annual illustration event – PIE – inviting speakers from around the world; recent keynotes have been Fantagraphics and Flying Eye Books.
  • Get noticed. Develop your own visual voice and get noticed in the professional world by taking part in external events, commissions and competitions.
  • Define your direction. Explore a broad practice or focus on one of our four specialist exit awards: Animation and the Screen, Children's Markets, Comics and Visual Narratives, or Printmaking .
  • Go global. Engage with UN Sustainability projects with real world impact. We have options to study abroad on a three-month placement including Japan, Europe, Scandinavia and North America. National and overseas study trips inspire and inform with wider cultural contexts.
  • Learn from experts. Work with experienced and award-winning tutors . We invite successful practitioners to work alongside to offer inspirational advice and industry insight.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • The first year will introduce you to the basics of illustration practice. You’ll develop your knowledge of image-making through character design, life drawing, printmaking, sequential and conceptual approaches, digital workshops, media exploration and analytical and critical writing. We’ll also introduce you to the techniques and essential processes of illustration practice within contemporary frameworks, preparing you for your second year.

    Core modules

    ILLUS405
    Character 40 credits

    You visually explore character creation via a broad range of traditional and digital media and formats whilst being introduced to some of the design processes utilised within illustration practice. Practical character development, narrative, creative writing and debate on the ethics of representation are featured. Critical reflection underpins practical work and help you to identify strengths and weaknesses.

    ILLUS406
    Gaining Confidence In... 80 credits

    You explore a range of conceptual, theoretical and practical projects and challenges concentrating upon the fundamentals of contemporary and future Illustrative practice. Areas include narrative sequence, interactivity, semiotics, metaphor, ideas generation, drawing, printmaking, critical and analytical reflection and writing, allowing you to gain confidence in a range of practical and conceptual skills. Potential for collaborative practice.

    100% Coursework

  • Year 2

  • In your second year, you can keep your focus broad or pursue a more specific area of personal interest at a deeper level. You’ll make contact with experts in the industry and analyse why the creative world is how it is. Critical and contextual modules with a varied visiting speaker programme will help you begin to position yourself as a professional. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in placements, live briefs and competitions, to study abroad or collaborate with other disciplines.

    Core modules

    ILLUS502
    Thematic 40 credits

    Working on a shared theme you explore a range of design processes highlighting the potential strand exit awards. The resulting diverse array of outcomes developed from one central topic helps you to consider the impact audience and context have upon communications. You identify a context within illustration practice and in consultation with tutors write an individual proposal which reflects personally identified objectives. A visual research journal evidences research into the breadth of Illustrative practices culminating in a written report.

    ILLUS504
    Interpreting Information 40 credits

    Choosing from a selection of information from a variety of sources aligned to UN Sustainability Goals, you initially engage in group activity and then negotiate a personal project brief that allows you to interpret that information for a specific illustration context. This negotiated learning helps you to question and, where appropriate, reinforce your ambitions. Competition briefs and/or work-based learning through placements or studio visits may be undertaken as part of this module (subject to negotiation).

    ILLUS505
    Common Challenge: Technique and Approach 2 20 credits

    Working on a Faculty set theme, individual or group research identifies, analyses and communicates an investigation into the theme. Lectures and research run throughout the module, to support the writing of an essay on the work of an individual or a group of practitioners in illustration or an allied area whose practice reflects the theme. Preparation for dissertation is undertaken. Drawing skills develop along with knowledge of the value of drawing within illustrative practice within a collaborative, cross-disciplinary environment.

    100% Coursework

    ILLUS506
    Research and Practice

    Drawing skills are defined and explored as a test bed for ideas and a reflective tool-kit for discovery. You engage with theories of and approaches to representation within global, historical, contemporary and cultural landscapes extending your visual research skills and awareness of the value of drawing within illustration and associated media.The opportunity to gain primary research via field trips is a feature.

  • Final year

  • There is increased emphasis on developing and consolidating your personal visual voice in your final year, while also developing the professional practice aspects (such as business skills, professional networks, social media profile, website and aligned promotion) that will help ensure a successful career in the area of your choice. Competitions and live briefs are encouraged and visiting lecturers offer a variety of viewpoints. You’ll undertake a written or practical research-informed dissertation related to your personal interests and have the chance to exhibit your work, both at our Degree Show and in London.

    Core modules

    ADA600
    Common Dissertation: Critical Practices 20 credits

    The module engages students in situating practice through research, contextualisation and critical reflection, in relation to their final stage study and post University aspirations. Programmes can offer: a traditional dissertation; preparation for an extended dissertation; situating existing practice; or the construction of a new body of work as practice-based research.

    100% Coursework

    ILLUS601
    Negotiated 1 20 credits

    A number of broad themes are presented. After reflection and evaluation of previous conclusions and future ambitions, you select one theme and submit a typed brief associated with the selection to satisfy your personally identified goals. Upon acceptance of your brief, you undertake an in-depth study of the chosen theme (or the identified aspect of the theme) and produce a body of work that responds to your written brief, demonstrating a full engagement with the task defined within the brief. Competition or live briefs may be undertaken as part of this module provided they fit within the agreed proposal and cover the Learning Outcomes. At the end of this module you may opt (subject to negotiation) to focus your studies towards one of the specific exit award titles.

    100% Coursework

    ILLUS622
    Negotiated 2 40 credits

    This module is designed to consolidate the learning achieved throughout and prepare you for your professional ambitions. After an initial period of preparation, research and consultation, you submit a written brief identifying aims and objectives reflecting your practice and professional aspirations. Following approval of the proposal you undertake an extensive period of self-directed, negotiated study leading to the production of a substantial body of work. The work is presented either via report or verbally and visually. Competition or live briefs may be undertaken as part of this module provided they fit within the agreed proposal and cover the Learning Outcomes.

    100% Coursework

    ILLUS641
    Professional Practice 1 20 credits

    After an initial period of preparation, research, consultation and proposed project work, you submit a portfolio / showreel evidencing your practice to date and a short type-written summary reflecting upon your practice and professional aspirations, identifying your aims and learning objectives for the year ahead. You start to build links within the professional world you have ambitions within. Competitions, live briefs or work-based learning may be undertaken as part of this module.

    100% Coursework

    Optional modules

    ILLUS634
    Extended Dissertation: Conclusion 20 credits

    You build upon the work undertaken within ADA600 Option 1 to further develop your chosen topic and existing research and reflection, assimilating this into a final output of a dissertation of critical writing (between 10,000 and 12,000 words). You are allocated a tutor for the module. Field study trips to gain first hand research may be undertaken.

    100% Coursework

    ILLUS642
    Professional Practice 2 20 credits

    You locate your studio-based practice within a context of your chosen area of professional specialism and articulate this understanding through production of a report and associated promotional items, thereby equipping yourself for entry into professional practice or post-graduate study. You gain a deeper understanding of the business and professional dimensions of the subject of illustration. Field study trips to gain first hand research may be undertaken.

    100% Coursework

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

104

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

Portfolio
Applicants are required to submit a portfolio, with an optional informal interview, for entry onto this course. If you have any questions, please contact our Admissions Team; drop us an email at applications@plymouth.ac.uk or alternatively give us a call on +44 1752 585858.
A level
A minimum of two A levels; General Studies accepted.
International Baccalaureate
26–36 points.
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification, it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All access courses
Pass a named Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferably Art and Design or combined), with at least 33 credits at merit and/or distinction.
T level
Merit in digital production, design and development.
GCSE
Mathematics and English Language grade C.
Equivalent qualifications may be considered; please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications, refer to our tariff glossary .

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £17,100 £17,600
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs .

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Hands-on projects

Whale mural by Ben Wills
Gain experience with live projects

Work at a professional level through placements and live briefs and enjoy direct contact with the dynamic world that you could become a part of.
Etching
Hold the press...

Our students make small-run print publications through the Plymouth Press Club.
Barcelona square
Broaden your experiences

Go on international study visits and attend conferences and exhibitions.

Students win big at D&AD New Blood Festival

From over 800 entries, Sophie Duffield was selected by more than 30 industry-leading judges as one of the winners of the prestigious New Blood Portfolios 2025, recognising her exceptional work in graphic and communication design.
The University's stand also received ‘Best in Show – Sustainability’, celebrating the team’s creative use of repurposed materials and long-term commitment to environmentally responsible design.
The D&AD New Blood Festival is an internationally respected showcase of the best emerging creative talent from universities and colleges around the world. Our students took full advantage of the opportunity, networking with top industry professionals and fellow creatives throughout the event.
The University of Plymouth’s stand received ‘Best in Show – Sustainability’, celebrating the team’s creative use of repurposed materials and long-term commitment to environmentally responsible design.
Mark Smith holding his World Illustration Awards.

“It is, and always has been, a total pleasure doing this job and I count myself so lucky to get to do something that was a dream for me as a kid.”

After graduating Mark Smith has developed a career as a renowned illustrator and his artwork has featured in magazines, newspapers, books and advertising campaigns around the world for clients including Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, Time and The New York Times, earning recognition along the way including the overall prize in the World Illustration Awards 2024.
Mark shares his thoughts on his craft and developing a creative voice in the industry.

“There is something so magical about bringing my own little world to life and it fills me with so much joy!”

Creating whimsical and comforting pieces of art that adds a bit of magic to our everyday, Violet Kelley is inspired by nature, history and folk stories.
Violet's talents have been recognised in the industry by winning a highly commended in MacMillan Children’s Picture Book 2024 competition, as well as earning a book deal.
‘The Red Witch’, a reimagination of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’, was awarded Highly Commended by MacMillan 2024.

Learn from experts in their field

The five exit award strands within Illustration

Our students

Be part of our community

sophie lannon illustration student

Student success
Let our students' work and achievements inspire you.

Illustration graduate Joe Lyward

"The course gives you three years of intensive practising and developing"
Alumni Joe Lyward is now an illustration artist, picturebook maker and artist-educator.

Yi Hong Lim - BA (Hons) Illustration

International student experience

I joined the International Society and The Hello Project so I could make friends and meet people. If you are seeking any kind of support, the University will help you with anything, financially or mentally, you can get the support here.

Learn more from Oliver, one of our international students on BA (Hons) Illustration.
Undergraduate scholarships for international students
We offer several scholarships for international students wishing to study on this programme.
Study with us
At the University of Plymouth, we have a thriving international community made up of 2,000 students from over 100 different countries.

Follow our community on social media

* These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni (Unistats) is updated annually in September.