Illustration

Program Description:

The Illustration program at Sheridan College is a comprehensive and dynamic educational experience designed to cultivate students' artistic talents, technical skills, and creative vision. Focused on preparing students for careers as professional illustrators, this program emphasizes both traditional drawing techniques and cutting-edge digital tools. Students will explore a wide range of illustration styles, including editorial, children's books, concept art, character design, and environmental illustration. Throughout their studies, students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative assignments, and industry-relevant exercises that foster both individual creativity and teamwork skills.

The curriculum combines foundational art courses such as figure drawing, composition, and color theory with specialized classes in digital illustration, storyboarding, and visual storytelling. Students learn to work with various mediums and software, including Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, and other industry-standard tools. The program also emphasizes professional development, providing students with opportunities to build portfolios, participate in exhibitions, and connect with industry professionals through workshops, seminars, and internships.

Faculty members are experienced professionals with extensive backgrounds in the illustration field, offering mentorship and constructive critique to help students refine their craft. Sheridan’s state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated art studios, computer labs, and illustration workshops, support a creative learning environment. The program’s focus on both artistic mastery and industry preparedness ensures that graduates are well-equipped to pursue successful careers in publishing, advertising, animation, gaming, and other creative industries.

Graduates of the Illustration program at Sheridan College are recognized for their versatility, technical skill, and innovative approach to visual communication. Whether working as freelance artists or within agencies and studios, alumni leave the program ready to contribute dynamic visual narratives and distinctive artwork that meet the demands of a competitive marketplace. The Sheridan Illustration program blends tradition with innovation to inspire the next generation of visual storytellers.

The Illustration program at Sheridan College offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the art of visual storytelling. Designed to develop strong foundational skills and foster creative innovation, the program prepares graduates for diverse careers within the illustration industry, including editorial, advertising, publishing, animation, and multimedia. Throughout the program, students engage in a wide range of courses that cover traditional drawing techniques, digital illustration, conceptual development, and visual communication strategies. Emphasis is placed on honing technical proficiency in various media, including ink, watercolor, digital tools, and mixed media, enabling students to produce compelling images across different platforms.

The curriculum encourages experimentation with different styles and approaches, allowing students to cultivate their unique artistic voice while understanding industry standards. Students learn about the professional aspects of illustration, such as portfolio development, client collaboration, and understanding market trends. The program also emphasizes the importance of storytelling, visual narrative, and the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and creatively through imagery. Practical projects, internships, and industry partnerships are integral components, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.

Faculty members are experienced professionals who offer mentorship and guidance tailored to each student's interests and career goals. State-of-the-art facilities, including digital studios, drawing labs, and multimedia workspaces, support a collaborative learning environment. Graduates of the program are equipped with a versatile skill set, a robust portfolio, and the confidence to excel both creatively and professionally in the competitive field of illustration. Sheridan College’s Illustration program aims to nurture innovative artists who can adapt to the evolving demands of visual communication in a global digital landscape.

All applicants to the Illustration program at Sheridan College are required to demonstrate a strong foundation in drawing, composition, and visual storytelling. Prospective students must submit a portfolio that showcases their skills in traditional and digital media, including sketches, character designs, storyboards, and completed illustrations. The portfolio review assesses creativity, technical ability, and potential for growth within the discipline. In addition to a portfolio, applicants should provide official transcripts from previous education, demonstrating prerequisite coursework in art or related fields, where applicable. A statement of intent outlining the applicant’s interest in illustration, career goals, and reasons for choosing Sheridan College is also required. Some program-specific prerequisites may include proficiency in basic art principles such as perspective, anatomy, and color theory, though these are typically developed further during the program. International students must also meet English language proficiency requirements through tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Once admitted, students are expected to participate actively in studio courses, critiques, and collaborative projects to enhance their skills. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional illustration techniques and contemporary digital processes, preparing graduates for careers across publishing, entertainment, advertising, and digital media industries. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop a unique artistic voice while acquiring professional skills like project management, client communication, and portfolio development. Sheridan College's facilities include state-of-the-art computer labs, art studios, and access to industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite. Mentorship from experienced faculty and industry collaborations provide students with practical insights and networking opportunities. To complete the program, students must fulfill all coursework requirements, complete a capstone project or portfolio, and participate in an exhibition showcasing their work. Overall, the program aims to nurture versatile illustrators capable of conceptualizing and executing compelling visual narratives for diverse applications.

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

tuition fees for the Illustration program at Sheridan College vary depending on the student's residency status. For domestic students, the approximate annual tuition fee is CAD 7,500, while international students can expect to pay around CAD 20,000 per year. These fees cover instruction, access to college facilities, and other academic resources. In addition to tuition, students should budget for additional costs such as textbooks, art supplies, software licenses, and living expenses, which can significantly impact the total cost of the program. Sheridan College offers a range of financial aid options to support students pursuing degrees, including scholarships, bursaries, and work-study programs. Scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement, artistic talent, or financial need, with some available specifically for students in the arts disciplines. Bursaries are need-based and designed to assist students facing financial challenges. International students may also explore external funding sources such as governmental grants, private scholarships, and sponsorships. The college also provides information about payment plans that allow students to pay tuition fees in installments instead of a lump sum, which can ease financial pressure over the duration of the program. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek out part-time employment opportunities both on and off campus to help cover living expenses and reduce overall costs. Sheridan College’s Career Services provides guidance on job placement and internships that can offer practical experience and additional income. Loan programs available through government agencies may also be utilized, with eligibility criteria varying by region. Students should carefully review the specific financing options applicable to their residency status and personal circumstances before committing to enrollment. International students are advised to consult their home country’s educational finance agencies for potential funding sources or international student loans. Overall, while the Illustration program represents a significant financial investment, Sheridan College strives to make education accessible through a comprehensive range of financial support mechanisms.

The Illustration program at Sheridan College is a comprehensive diploma program designed to develop students' skills in visual storytelling, creative thinking, and technical proficiency. This program prepares students for careers in various fields such as publishing, advertising, animation, concept art, storyboarding, and other areas requiring strong illustration skills. The curriculum offers a balance of traditional drawing techniques and digital tools, allowing students to experiment with diverse mediums and styles. Students gain experience in character design, narrative illustration, concept development, and visual communication.

Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative work, and industry-relevant assignments that foster professional growth and portfolio development. Classes are led by experienced instructors, many of whom have active professional practice and industry connections, providing valuable mentorship and networking opportunities. Sheridan College emphasizes both individual artistic development and understanding the business aspects of illustration, including client relations, project management, and copyright considerations. The program often incorporates critiques, portfolio reviews, and exhibitions, preparing students to enter the creative workforce confidently.

In addition to studio courses, students may have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as dedicated drawing studios, digital labs, and industry-standard software. The program also encourages exploration of emerging trends and technologies in illustration, including animation, interactive media, and virtual reality. Sheridan College’s strong ties to the industry help facilitate internships, co-op placements, and exhibitions, providing students with real-world experience and industry exposure. Graduates of the program are equipped with a versatile skill set, enabling them to adapt to various roles within the arts and entertainment industries and to pursue further studies if desired.