We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified*:
IELTS Academic module overall 6.5 with 5.5 in each component.
TOEFL-iBT (including Special Home Edition) 92 or above with 20 in each section. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
Cambridge English: Advanced or Proficiency overall 176 with 162 in each component.
Trinity ISE: ISE II with a distinction in all four components.
We also accept a wider range of international qualifications and tests.
English language qualifications must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the degree you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS, TOEFL, or Trinity ISE, in which case it must be no more than two years old.
"To make clear, to explain or elucidate by means of pictures, to cast light upon..."
These words seek to define illustration, which is an element within the architecture of the page. Illustration encompasses form, colour, line, composition and pictorial space. The idea of the page embraces a variety of actual and virtual formats, and it reflects the evolving nature of the contemporary art, design and publishing industries.
Illustrations are seen in many settings, illuminating a range of printed material, advertising, graphic and web design, packaging, periodicals, books and more. Contemporary practice includes the theatre, music, television, museum-related work and exhibitions. We teach drawing and image-making from a broad methodology including observation, perception and literary interpretation.
You will be guided through a range of themes and briefs, to visualise your ideas and texts towards individual ways of seeing. An illustration philosophy includes intellectual and aesthetic sensibilities, allied to practical methods within evolving disciplines of the graphic arts. As such, this builds upon the energy and application of those who study, teach, and instruct students in reaching their full potential.
As a part of this process, we collaborate with publishers, designers and writers. You will experience both academic and live briefs. Our studio environment is a vital and creative space in which to explore perception, imagination, and the visual interpretation of texts.
Our illustration students study a challenging academic programme which encapsulates contemporary practice, its historical contexts, and aspects of professional applications. Illustration provides an education as well as a preparation for professional life.
A series of projects will enhance your awareness of the above elements, and will introduce collaborative working and interdisciplinary connections.
Integrated with the practical studio work, Design and Screen Cultures courses provide a contextual and theoretical understanding of the holistic nature of contemporary design.
Year 1
You will be introduced to the theoretical and practical concepts of design, initially through a series of shared projects, leading to more focused, subject-specific outcomes.
In Design and Screen Cultures you will address the key histories and theories of design.
You will be able to take up to 60 credits of option courses, either within ECA, or across the wider College, subject to availability and discussion with your Personal Tutor and relevant course organisers.
This offers you the flexibility to construct a suite of courses that reflects your interests and enhances your main study.
Year 2
Basic principles, theories, working practices and technical instruction will be covered in set projects and practical exercises.
A range of themes will be covered in varying scales, formats and complexities. This work demands imaginative solutions, research skills and technical facility.
You will begin to assemble a portfolio of work made for set briefs and self-initiated work in various media.
Alongside Design and Screen Cultures courses, you will be able to choose option courses from across the University, subject to availability.
Year 3
An externally facing professional practice year where there are various opportunities for exchange, competitions and live projects.
Projects will encapsulate pictorial narrative, documentary work, observational drawing, web design and artists' books. A creative approach is strongly supported by emphasis on the importance of drawing as a method of expression, analysis and explanation.
You will have opportunities to work on commercially focused projects, produce print work, and take part in industry visits.
Alongside Design and Screen Cultures courses, option courses are available from within the wider College.
Opportunities for study abroad will help broaden your understanding of the discipline.
Year 4
This year gives opportunity for self-initiated projects as well as set briefs. You will feel confident about your ability to express ideas, opinions and concerns in your work.
Projects allow for greater exploration and you will identify direction and stylistic approaches towards a completed body of final-year work.
Competitions and live projects will enhance your awareness of professional practice as well as the illustrator's role in the field of contemporary art and design.
In addition, you will produce a written dissertation.
Programme structure
Find out more about the compulsory and optional courses in this degree programme.
To give you an idea of what you will study on this programme, we publish the latest available information. However, please note this may not be for your year of entry, but for a different academic year.
Our programmes have strong industrial pathways to ensure the most successful and meaningful careers for graduates. We boast a vibrant alumni network and strong links with the cultural and creative sector across Scotland and beyond.
The University Careers Service offers exceptional support throughout your time with us.
