Comic Design

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Comic Design at ArtEZ University of the Arts offers aspiring illustrators and storytellers the opportunity to develop their skills in a dynamic and innovative environment. This programme is designed to combine artistic craftsmanship with narrative storytelling, enabling students to create compelling comic genres that resonate with diverse audiences. Throughout the course, students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that covers fundamental art and design principles, scriptwriting, character development, world-building, and digital illustration techniques. Emphasizing both traditional drawing skills and modern digital tools, the programme prepares students to produce professional-quality comics for various media, including print, web, and multimedia platforms.

Students will learn to craft engaging stories, develop unique visual styles, and understand the nuances of pacing, composition, and color theory specific to comic art. The programme also encourages experimentation with different genres and storytelling formats, fostering creativity and innovation. Collaborative projects and workshops simulate real-world comic industry experiences, allowing students to work in teams and receive constructive feedback from industry professionals and faculty. The programme underscores the importance of personal artistic voice and storytelling authenticity, empowering students to carve out their own niche within the comic industry.

Furthermore, the curriculum includes lectures and seminars on the history and theory of comics, exploring both classic and contemporary works to provide contextual understanding and inspiration. Students are given opportunities to showcase their work through exhibitions, online portfolios, and publication collaborations, preparing them for careers as comic artists, illustrators, storyboard artists, or independent creators. With a multidisciplinary approach integrating art, storytelling, and new media, the Comic Design programme at ArtEZ nurtures innovative artists ready to contribute to the evolving world of comics and visual storytelling.

The Comic Design program at ArtEZ University of the Arts offers a dynamic and comprehensive education path for aspiring comic artists and storytellers. This Bachelor’s degree program immerses students in the multifaceted world of comic creation, combining artistic techniques, narrative development, and experimental approaches to visual storytelling. Throughout the course, students learn to craft compelling characters, develop engaging storylines, and master various illustration styles suited to different genres and formats. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional drawing skills and digital techniques, ensuring graduates are versatile and adaptable in a rapidly evolving industry.

Students are encouraged to explore the history and theory of comics, gaining an understanding of their cultural significance and evolution over time. The program fosters a creative environment where students can experiment with different mediums and formats, including graphic novels, webcomics, and animated stories. Collaboration is a key component, with opportunities to work in teams on projects that mirror real-world comic and publishing industry practices. The faculty, comprising experienced comic artists, illustrators, and educators, provides personalized guidance and mentorship tailored to each student’s artistic development and interests.

In addition to technical and artistic training, the program emphasizes professional skills such as portfolio development, self-promotion, and understanding the business aspects of comic publishing and digital media. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios, digital labs, and printmaking workshops. They are encouraged to participate in exhibitions, competitions, and internships to build their portfolios and networks within the industry. Graduates of the Comic Design program leave with a strong foundation in visual storytelling, innovative artistic techniques, and a professional approach, preparing them for careers as comic artists, illustrators, storyboard artists, or independent creators. The program aims to inspire and equip students to contribute to the vibrant, diverse world of comics and related visual narratives globally.

The Comic Design Bachelor's degree program at ArtEZ University of the Arts requires applicants to demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing their skills and originality in illustration, storytelling, and comic creation. Prospective students are expected to have a basic understanding of visual arts and storytelling techniques. The admission process may include an entrance exam or interview, during which candidates present their portfolio and discuss their motivation for pursuing comic design. The program emphasizes the development of individual artistic voice, conceptual thinking, and technical skills in digital and traditional media. Students will learn about character development, scriptwriting, panel layout, and color use, alongside understanding the history and theory of comics. The curriculum combines theoretical courses with practical workshops, enabling students to produce a diverse range of comic styles and formats. Collaboration and critical feedback are integral parts of the learning environment, preparing students for professional careers in comic publishing, animation, gaming, and multimedia storytelling. As part of their studies, students are encouraged to participate in exhibitions, comic festivals, and industry internships to gain real-world experience. The program promotes innovation and experimentation, fostering a creative community where students can explore various narratives and visual languages. Upon graduation, students will possess a comprehensive portfolio, industry contacts, and the skills necessary for employment or further academic research in the creative industries related to comics and visual storytelling.

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

The Comic Design programme at ArtEZ University of the Arts offers various financing options for prospective students. International students may be eligible for government grants, scholarships, or student loans, depending on their country of residence and specific circumstances. Dutch students can apply for student financing through the Dutch government, which may include student loans and grants to support their studies. ArtEZ also provides information about scholarships and financial aid opportunities, although specific offerings may vary annually. In addition to national funding options, students are encouraged to seek external scholarships and sponsorships relevant to arts education and comic art disciplines. The programme's tuition fees are set by the university and may differ for EU and non-EU students. ArtEZ provides transparent information on tuition costs, and students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office for personalized guidance. Campus facilities, equipment, and materials costs are generally included in tuition or covered by additional fees, but students should budget for personal expenses and living costs, especially if studying abroad. Part-time work opportunities are available in the Netherlands, allowing students to supplement their income while studying. The university’s career services offer support in finding internships or part-time employment related to comic design. International students should also consider additional costs such as visas, insurance, and travel, which are not covered by university funding. Overall, the programme is designed to make comic design education accessible through various financial support mechanisms, and students are encouraged to explore all available options early in their application process to ensure adequate financing.

Comic Design at ArtEZ University of the Arts is a comprehensive bachelor's program that combines illustration, storytelling, and visual communication to prepare students for careers in the comic industry and related fields. The program emphasizes the development of individual artistic style, technical skills, and narrative expertise. Students engage in both traditional drawing techniques and digital methods to create compelling comic stories, character development, and graphic narratives. The curriculum includes courses in storyboarding, scripting, character design, coloring, and layout, along with theoretical subjects such as art history, narrative theory, and contemporary comic trends. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to collaborate on projects, participate in internships, and showcase their work through exhibitions and publications. The program aims to foster original thinking, innovation, and professional competencies required for a successful career in comic creation, whether in print, online media, animation, or game design. ArtEZ's focus on a hands-on learning approach and dialogue with industry professionals enables students to build a robust portfolio and establish their presence in the creative market. The multicultural environment and the school's connections with industry partners contribute to a dynamic learning experience, preparing graduates to work independently or within teams in diverse settings related to comics, animation, concept art, and visual storytelling.