Cornish College of the Arts United States

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration at Cornish College of the Arts is your pathway to becoming a visual storyteller and a professional artist in a dynamic creative industry. You will explore the fundamental principles of visual communication, from color theory and form to digital tools and narrative development, preparing you to tackle diverse illustration challenges. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring artists who are passionate about developing their unique artistic voice and mastering the technical skills required to bring imaginative concepts to life across various media.

This full-time, on-campus program unfolds over four years, immersing you in a curriculum that balances foundational studio work with advanced electives and professional practice. You will engage with subjects like visual arts histories, design systems, and professional practices, culminating in a BFA Capstone Project and exhibition seminar. Throughout your studies, you will develop a strong portfolio and gain experience in areas like Immersive Studio and Design Research, preparing you for careers in publishing, advertising, game design, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration program cultivates foundational artistic skills through courses in color, composition, form, and observation. Students explore visual arts histories and develop analytical writing abilities. The curriculum progresses to digital tools, publishing, and professional practices, culminating in immersive and collaborative studio experiences. The program emphasizes design research, a capstone project, and a final exhibition to prepare students for professional careers.

1 Year 1

Color + Composition
Form + Structure
Observation + Visualization
Intro to Visual Arts Histories (H)
Writing & Analysis I
FYLA: First-YR Liberal Arts Seminar

2 Year 2

Systems
Meta-Systems
Digital Tools for Design
Publishing Tools
The Western Design Canon (H)
Professional Practices in the Arts

3 Year 3

Immersive Studio
Collaborative Studio
Parallel Views: Narratives of Design (H)
Parallel Views: Narratives of Design (H)

4 Year 4

Professional Practices for Design
BFA Capstone Project
Design Research
BFA Exhibition Seminar

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,038.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,038.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,038.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,038.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 160,152.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 802.00 - USD 1,919.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Madison Campus.

Why Study Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration at Cornish College of the Arts

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Cornish College of the Arts typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Cornish College of the Arts in United States

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 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration at Cornish College of the Arts

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. Work on campus doesn’t require a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English language requirements: TOEFL (overall score of 75), IELTS (overall score of 6.0), or PTE (overall score of 54). Each test has specific minimum scores for different components.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Illustrators, Graphic Designers, Art Directors, Visual Artists, or Concept Artists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Design department offers degrees in Design, Illustration, Interaction Design, and Interior Architecture. Students will engage in studio work, critical studies, and interdisciplinary projects during their studies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Students can start the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration program in January or September. Admission is based on a portfolio review and transfer credits.
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