University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Illustration MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Illustration MA at the University of Portsmouth is designed for aspiring artists and creative professionals seeking to elevate their practice to a postgraduate level. You will explore the dynamic landscape of contemporary illustration, developing specialised research skills and a compelling project proposal to guide your unique artistic vision. This Master's degree is ideal for those ready to question, innovate, and refine their illustration techniques, preparing you to articulate your creative identity within a professional context. You’ll gain the critical understanding and practical experience necessary to define your role as a visual storyteller.

This practice-led Master's degree is studied full-time on campus over one year, immersing you in a supportive academic environment. You will engage with core modules including 'A Question of Research', 'Proposal for Illustration', 'Illustration in Context', and culminate in an ambitious 'Illustration Major Project'. Throughout your studies, you will develop professional materials, learn to promote your work, and potentially exhibit your final project. You will graduate with a refined portfolio and the confidence to pursue careers in illustration, art direction, design, or publishing, ready to make your mark in the creative industries.

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Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts in Illustration program equips students with advanced research and practical skills. The curriculum focuses on developing a strong proposal for an illustration project, understanding illustration within its broader context, and executing a major illustration project. Throughout the course, students will engage in critical inquiry and develop their unique artistic voice in the field of illustration.

1 Year 1

A Question of Research Compulsory
Proposal for Illustration Compulsory
Illustration in Context Compulsory
Illustration Major Project Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,195.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 24,195.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Cloud Computing & InfrastructureCybersecurity & Network SecurityHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringHigher Education & UniversitiesInsurance & Risk ManagementQuality Assurance & TestingRetail & GrocerySoftware Development & EngineeringTax & Legal ComplianceWireless & Mobile Communications

Top Employers Hiring for this course

IBM

Sainsbury's

University of Portsmouth

fiverr

Why Study Illustration MA at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth 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 MA at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for this course.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 91 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is needed.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as illustrator, art director, graphic designer, or roles in publishing.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course enhances your illustration skills through both traditional and innovative techniques. You'll also have the opportunity to build a personal project that defines your role as a creative practitioner.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Illustration course intake occurs in September. This allows students to align with the academic calendar and start their postgraduate studies in illustration.
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