University of Dundee United Kingdom

Illustration BDes (Hons)

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

The Illustration BDes (Hons) at the University of Dundee is your pathway to becoming a visual storyteller and creative problem-solver in a dynamic field. You will explore how to generate compelling images that communicate complex ideas with clarity and purpose, drawing on a foundation of research-led practical experimentation. This Bachelor of Design (Honours) degree is ideal for aspiring illustrators who wish to develop a distinctive personal visual language, preparing you for a career as an agile and flexible graduate designer ready to tackle diverse briefs.

This full-time, on-campus programme, studied over four years, immerses you in a vibrant studio environment. You will engage in lectures, practical workshops, seminars, and critiques, with projects often developed in collaboration with external partners to enhance your real-world experience. You will develop technical knowledge and practical skills in illustration, covering a wide range of materials, media, and technologies, alongside critical and contextual dimensions. You will graduate with a professional portfolio, ready to pursue diverse career paths within the illustration industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Illustration program cultivates foundational drawing and making skills before progressing to idea generation, communication strategies, and contemporary design practices. Students will explore diverse areas such as narrative, visual effects, comic art, and photography, culminating in advanced personal projects and professional development. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and the application of design principles across various media and contexts.

1 Level 1

Foundation Studies 1 (Ways of Drawing)
Foundation Studies 2 (Thinking through Making)
Foundation Studies 3 (Connecting Colour and Symbol)
Foundation Studies 4 (Future Discipline)
Foundation Studies 5 (Beyond the Studio)

2 Level 2

Idea Generation and Communication
Communication Design Context 1
Structure and Narrative
Communication Design Context 2

3 Level 3

Communication Design Practices
Applied Communication Design
Art, Science and Visual Thinking
The Contemporary Portrait
Print and Printability
The Undiscovered Landscape
Creative Values, Issues and Ethics
Principles of Visual Effects
Comic Art & Graphic Novels
Critical Making: Materials & Fabrication
Thinking Photography
Squirrel. Badger, Hog, Fable
Communication in Moving Image
Design for Living: The Domestic Object
Research & Creative Practice Part 1
Design Enterprise 1
Communication Futures - Part 1
Undergraduate Work Placement

4 Level 4

Communication Design: Personal Projects and Professional Standards
Research & Creative Practice Part 2
Design Enterprise 2
Communication Futures - Part 2

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,291.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,291.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,291.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,291.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 125,167.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 694.00 - USD 1,264.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Dundee Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdvertising & Media SalesBroadcasting & TelevisionClinical & Medical ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentCustoms, Trade & ComplianceHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedia Research & AnalyticsNursing & Allied HealthRail & Mass Transit

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Council

Dundee City Council

University of Edinburgh

University of Newcastle

Why Study Illustration BDes (Hons) at University of Dundee

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

University of Dundee typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Dundee 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 BDes (Hons) at University of Dundee

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in a degree course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need an IELTS overall score of 6.0, with specific minimum scores in each category. Alternatively, a PTE overall score of 64 is acceptable with required minimums.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

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

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on creative problem-solving and developing a personal visual language. You'll also explore the critical dimensions of illustration and the use of emerging media and technologies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Illustration BDes (Hons) course has an intake in September. Make sure to apply ahead of time to secure your spot.
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