Visual Communication: Concentration in Illustration

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication with a Concentration in Illustration at the American InterContinental University - London is a comprehensive program designed to cultivate creative talent and professional skills in the field of visual storytelling. This degree prepares students to become innovative illustrators capable of conveying ideas, narratives, and conceptual designs across various mediums and industries. Throughout the program, students engage in a broad spectrum of coursework that emphasizes both traditional and digital illustration techniques, ensuring they develop a versatile skill set suitable for diverse career opportunities. The curriculum integrates core principles of art and design, including composition, color theory, character design, and visual narrative, enabling students to create compelling and effective visual content. Students also explore advanced software tools and digital platforms, equipping them with the technical proficiency required in today's competitive industry. The program encourages experimentation with different styles and approaches, fostering original thinking and artistic growth. In addition to technical skills, students gain insight into the professional aspects of illustration, such as portfolio development, client communication, and freelance practices. Collaborative projects and internships are often incorporated to provide real-world experience and industry connections. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for roles in book and magazine publishing, advertising, gaming, animation, concept art, and many other sectors where visual storytelling is essential. With passionate faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and an international learning environment, the program aims to nurture talented individuals who can contribute creatively and effectively to the visual communication industry. Upon completion, students will possess a robust portfolio that showcases their artistic style and diverse abilities, fostering successful careers as professional illustrators and visual communicators in a vibrant global landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 14220 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14520 Year (Non-EEA)

13.5 credit (3 classes, 1 quarter) £4170 Home students and £4260 Non-home students

• English

Course Content

In addition to the general education requirements, this BFA with a concentration in Illustration includes the following courses, taught by instructors who have relevant career experience in the illustration and design industry. The experiences and firsthand perspectives they share in class can help prepare you for real-life challenges after you graduate.

CORE COURSES

• Design Principles
• Fundamentals of Color
• Computer Design I
• Foundation Illustration
• Art Direction
• Design Development I
• Business Practices in Visual Communication
• Portfolio Presentation I

CONCENTRATION COURSES

• Sequential & Narrative Illustration
• Advanced Illustration
• Experimental Computer Illustration I
• Experimental Computer Illustration II

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5 CAE score : 60(Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 500 TOEFL iBT® test : 61

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

To be considered for admission, first-time students and transfer applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

• Submit a complete application for admission.
• For prospective students who reside in North or South America or the Caribbean Region and who are applying through the AIU Admissions Office located in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, an application fee of US $50 is required. For other international applicants who reside outside these regions and who apply through the Admissions Office in London, an application fee of GB£35 is required.
• Submit attestation of high school graduation or its equivalent.
• Participate in an admission interview arranged by an AIU Admission Advisor.
• Non-native English-speaking prospective students are required to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS or other approved English-proficiency assessment) prior to admission or upon arrival in London. Applicants should consult an AIU London Admissions Advisor for full details and English-proficiency requirements before applying to AIU London.

English Proficiency and English as a Second Language

Prospective students whose first language is not English are required to provide proof of English proficiency prior to admission. Accepted methods for the demonstration of English proficiency at AIU include but are not limited to:

Examination Options:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score (on the paper test) of 500 or higher
• TOEFL score (on the computerbased test) of 173 or higher
• TOEFL score (on the internetbased test) of 61 or higher
• Advanced Placement International English Language (APIEL) score of 3 or higher
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.5 or higher
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) score of 73 or higher
• University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate Certificate of Advanced English (UCLES CAE) grade of A, B or C
• University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate Certificate of Proficiency in English (UCLES CPE) grade of A, B or C
• British GCSE/Ordinary (O) orAdvanced (A and AS) Level examinations in the Subject of English grade of A, B or C

Instructional Options:

• Successful completion of acollege-level English course (agrade of C or better) taken at anaccredited, English speaking postsecondary institution
• Graduation from an Englishspeaking secondary institution
• ESL instruction based onUniversity evaluation
• Level 109 or higher on the ESLLanguage Centers
• Level 107 or higher EF Language
• Centerso Alternative measures of Englishproficiency may be determined with Academic approval.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than American InterContinental University.

Funding

AIU offers several scholarship and grants options. For more information see the link section "financial aid" and their catalogue.

The Visual Communication: Concentration in Illustration program at American InterContinental University - London is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic field of illustration. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of visual storytelling, drawing techniques, digital illustration, and conceptual development, enabling students to create compelling visual narratives across various media. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse curriculum that covers traditional art fundamentals, such as anatomy, composition, and color theory, alongside advanced digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop and Illustrator. This integration of traditional and digital methods ensures graduates are well-prepared for the evolving industry demands.

Students benefit from a curriculum that fosters creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking, allowing them to develop a personalized style and voice as illustrators. The program incorporates practical projects, portfolio development, and industry-focused assignments to prepare students for careers in publishing, advertising, animation, concept art, and other related fields. As part of the program, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios, digital labs, and supervision from experienced faculty who are active professionals in the illustration industry. Additionally, the university encourages students to participate in exhibitions, competitions, and collaborations with real clients to gain hands-on experience and build a professional network.

The program also places a strong emphasis on professional development, including learning about the business aspects of illustration, such as licensing, branding, and freelancing. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers as illustrators, concept artists, visual storytellers, or to further their education through postgraduate studies. The interdisciplinary approach of the program ensures that graduates are flexible and innovative, ready to contribute original ideas to a variety of visual communication projects. Overall, the illustration concentration at American InterContinental University - London offers a robust education that combines artistic skill, technical expertise, and professional readiness to thrive in competitive creative industries.