School of Illustration

Professional Opportunities

As an Illustration student, you will begin your professional career on day one. Starting with first semester figurative projects, you will begin developing drawing skills based on industry standards.

Beginning Illustration courses provide a solid foundation in understanding the figure, traditional rendering and digital media. As students progress through the Illustration degree program, they apply these skills with storytelling to create visually engaging and conceptual meaningful imagery.

As they develop their uniquely identifiable styles, students have many opportunities to network with professionals in the industry and begin their professional futures:

Spring Show – With an exhibition of fresh and original work, Academy of Art University's Spring Show draws crowds of industry professionals each year. Illustration students showcase their best work in areas such as graphic novels, visual development for animation and games, children’s books and interactive illustration. Students show their portfolios and interview with representatives from companies like Marvel Entertainment, American Greetings, Open Road Interactive Media and others.

Awards & Real-World Projects – Students in the School of Illustration are frequent participants and winners in industry competitions offered by such institutions as the Society of Illustrators and also featured in publications such as CMYK Magazine. With a reputation for outstanding work, students of the School of Illustration often begin freelancing prior to graduation.

Career & Entrepreneurial Services – Students prepare for entry into the professional work force by taking advantage of the Career & Entrepreneurial Development department’s onsite and online workshops. See more.

Industry Relationships & Events – Throughout each semester, the School of Illustration participates in events that bring respected artist to campus. Students benefit from lectures and presentations by top industry professionals.

Through the School of Illustration’s innovative program, you will develop an individual style and create powerful portfolios demonstrating your unique approach to problem solving. As you develop the technique and conceptual skills needed in the Illustration design field, you will have the chance to network with industry professionals and gain practical experience.

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