Overview

The Illustration programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a rigorous creative education designed to transform artistic passion into a professional career. This bachelor level course emphasises the development of a unique visual voice while mastering the technical skills required by modern employers. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances traditional artistic foundations with contemporary digital practices.

Why Illustration at Academy of Art University?

The institution offers a "no barriers" approach to education, meaning that students can begin their journey without the requirement of a pre-existing portfolio or specific test scores. Learning is led by working professionals who bring real-world industry insights directly into the classroom. Students have access to exceptional facilities, including dedicated painting studios, printmaking labs, and a well-stocked prop room with thousands of items for reference. The university’s strong links to industry clients allow for collaborative projects that help students build a career-ready body of work before graduation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 40368 per year
National fee: USD 31224 per year
Local fee: USD 31224 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in visual storytelling and technical execution. Modules may include:

Undergraduate Foundations
Liberal Arts Education
Anatomy
Multimedia Painting
Intaglio and Relief Printing
Silkscreen Process
Digital Output
Professional Portfolio Development

Careers with Illustration

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a variety of roles within the creative industries, moving beyond traditional art to shape global culture. Alumni have successfully secured positions at major organisations, including Disney Theatrical Group and Warner Bros. Discovery. The focus on practical skills and portfolio building ensures that students are equipped for roles in commercial illustration, entertainment design, and visual storytelling. The university's career services and strong alumni network provide ongoing support for graduates entering the competitive global marketplace.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Analysis of Form

Figure Drawing

Form

Photography & Imaging

Perspective
Digital Manipulation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design View 609 other Bachelors in Graphic Design in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school transcripts and diploma.

College transcripts (if applicable) must show the classes/subjects, grades, credits, and number of hours completed for each class.

Pay the Registration Fee.

Pay the $150 Application Fee.

Pay the International Student Services Fee.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

40368 USD / year

≈ 40368 USD / year
Out-of-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year

Additional Details

Undergraduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,239/unit – 3 units per class

Undergraduate Tuition (International Students): $1,463/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Illustration.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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