University of Derby United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Illustration with Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Illustration with Foundation Year at the University of Derby is your gateway to a dynamic career in visual communication. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring illustrators who are passionate about storytelling and eager to develop a distinctive artistic voice. You will explore the rich history and theory of creative practice, engage with cutting-edge creative technologies, and build a robust foundation in 2D and 3D making. This course is ideal if you seek to understand the professional landscape of illustration and cultivate the skills needed to thrive within it.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, including a preparatory foundation year that ensures you are fully equipped for higher-level study. You will progress through modules like Visual Narratives, Creative Ambition, and Applied Professional Practice, with opportunities to undertake a professional placement and develop an independent creative project. Throughout your studies, you will work alongside experienced practitioners, honing your skills in areas such as design, culture, and communication, and graduate prepared for diverse roles in the creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Illustration with Foundation Year program offers a comprehensive exploration of visual communication and creative practice. The foundation year introduces core creative studies, technologies, and making skills, preparing students for subsequent years. Students will delve into design thinking, visual narratives, and critical research, culminating in a professional direction that bridges academic learning with industry application. Optional professional practice modules provide further opportunities for real-world experience.

1 Foundation Year

Creative Studies
Creative Technologies
History and Theory of Creative Practice
Creative Skills: 2D and 3D Making
Negotiated Project

2 Year One

Thinking Through Design
Design, Culture and Curiosity
Creative Concepts
Exploring Visual Communication

3 Year Two

Visual Narratives
Design: Theory, Making and Meaning
Creative Ambition

4 Diploma in Professional Practice (Optional )

Applied Professional Practice
Contemporary Issues in Professional Practice

5 Year Three

The Applied Creative
The Independent Creative
Critical Voice: Research and Professional Direction

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

13% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,268.00 USD 20,951.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 81,122.00 USD 83,805.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAnimation & Visual EffectsCybersecurityDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEducation Policy & AdministrationJournalism & ReportingLive Events & ConcertsSocial Media & Content StrategySports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital Content

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Derby Theatre

fiverr

Why Study BA (Hons) Illustration with Foundation Year at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Illustration with Foundation Year at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, students need an overall IELTS score of 6, with at least 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as illustrators, concept artists, graphic designers, or art directors.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Illustration with Foundation Year BA (Hons) at the University of Derby is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in illustration techniques, concepts, and practices. The program aims to develop students’ creative and technical skills in illustration, enabling them to express ideas visually across various mediums. Throughout the course, students will explore traditional and digital illustration methods, develop their artistic style, and learn how to

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Illustration with Foundation Year program starts in September each year.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️