Illustration BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year

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

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative journey with the Illustration BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA). This undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring visual communicators eager to explore the dynamic and ever-evolving world of illustration, pushing creative boundaries and developing a strong professional voice. You will delve into the fundamental objective of illustration: to convey information through compelling visual imagery, addressing diverse communication needs across various platforms. This course is designed for students who are passionate about image-making and eager to understand its socio-political impact and commercial relevance.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, this programme immerses you in a practice-based curriculum that balances studio exploration with critical theory. You will develop core illustration skills, experiment with diverse media, and engage with real-world briefs and external projects, preparing you for professional practice. The significant Professional Practice Year offers invaluable industry experience, allowing you to build your CV and network within the creative industries. You will graduate from UCA with a robust portfolio, a keen understanding of visual culture, and the confidence to pursue a successful career as a professional illustrator.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Illustration with Professional Practice Year program provides a comprehensive exploration of illustration techniques and professional development. Across the initial years, students will engage with foundational skills, creative impact, and real-world applications, culminating in studio-based projects and practical placements. The curriculum emphasizes developing a unique visual voice and critical practice, preparing graduates for successful careers in the illustration field.

1 Year One

Launch
Fundamentals 1
Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity 1
Impact 1
Opportunity
Fundamentals 2
Real World 1
Showtime

2 Year Two

Launch
Studio 1
The conscious practitioner
Impact 2
Opportunity
Studio 2
Real World 2
Placement

3 Professional Practice Year

4 Year Three

Launch
Visual Voice
Critical Practice
Opportunity
Final Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,709.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 572.00 - USD 1,227.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on UCA Farnham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationBanking & Financial ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCorporate Finance & TreasuryCustomer Experience & SupportHigher Education & UniversitiesPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalRoad Transport & LogisticsSatellite CommunicationsSoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Apple

IBM

Marks & Spencer

Sainsbury's

Tesco

University of the Arts London

Why Study Illustration BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University for Creative Arts (UCA) 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 Illustration BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time under this degree program. Full-time work is allowed during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English requirements, you can provide TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. For example, an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with no individual part below 5.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

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

What will I actually study in this course?

Playfully creative. Experimental. Commercially relevant. These are all ways to describe our exciting BA (Hons) Illustration degree course at UCA Farnham.

This course has a strong sense of purpose – we want you to test what the language of illustration means to today’s audiences, make (and learn from) mistakes, research and generate ideas, and learn how to be entrepreneurial.

By placing experimentation and play at the forefront of what you'll do, you'll be challenged to take

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the Illustration BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year is in September. Ensure you apply ahead of this date to secure your spot.
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