Illustration

Accreditation: NVAO

Erasmus Mundus program: This is an Erasmus Mundus program.

The Illustration program at the HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum designed to nurture creative visual storytellers and innovative image makers. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of illustration techniques, from traditional drawing and painting to digital media, ensuring they develop versatile skills applicable to various fields such as publishing, advertising, animation, and interactive media. The program emphasizes the importance of developing a unique artistic voice, encouraging students to experiment with different styles and concepts, and to critically analyze their own work in the context of contemporary visual culture. Students engage in rigorous practice and project-based learning, collaborating with fellow students and industry professionals to simulate real-world scenarios and deadlines. The curriculum integrates theoretical understanding with practical skills, covering areas like composition, narrative development, character design, visual communication, and the ethical considerations of image-making. As part of the program, students participate in workshops, masterclasses, and internships, providing valuable networking opportunities and exposure to professional practices. The program also promotes international perspectives, ensuring graduates are prepared to work in diverse cultural contexts and global markets. By the end of the program, students produce a compelling portfolio that demonstrates their technical proficiency, conceptual approach, and personal style, equipping them to pursue careers as illustrators, concept artists, visual designers, or pursue further artistic research and education. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship from experienced faculty, students are encouraged to push boundaries and innovate within the field of illustration, making this program ideal for aspiring visual storytellers seeking to impact the contemporary visual landscape.

Other requirements

1. ingangstoets Om te kunnen studeren bij de HKU, dien je voor deze studie een toelatingstest te doen. Hierbij wordt bekeken of je over de juiste eigenschappen beschikt om succesvol een kunstopleiding te kunnen afronden. Daarnaast is deze toelatingstest voor jezelf een check dat je een studie kiest die bij je past.

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

Finance options for the Illustration program at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht typically include a variety of funding opportunities designed to support both Dutch and international students. The university offers scholarships specifically for talented students, which are awarded based on merit and portfolio quality. Additionally, students from the European Union may be eligible for government grants and student loans, such as the Dutch student financing system, which provides partial funding for study costs and living expenses. Non-EU students often seek private scholarships, grants from cultural foundations, or Erasmus+ funding if their home country participates in exchange agreements with HKU. International students are advised to explore eligibility for the Holland Scholarship or regional financial aid programs, which can significantly reduce tuition fees and living costs. The university’s own financial aid office provides detailed guidance on application procedures, deadlines, and required documentation for various funding sources. Tuition fees are set annually and vary depending on the student’s nationality, with current figures published on the official HKU website. Many students also finance their studies through part-time jobs, internships, or sponsorships. The university collaborates with several organizations to facilitate work placement opportunities that can help offset costs. Moreover, for students enrolled in the Illustration program, there is potential to receive grants for specific projects or research initiatives related to their studies. Loan programs are also available, with terms and conditions governed by national regulations, offering manageable repayment options post-graduation. Overall, the financial landscape for students at HKU Utrecht is comprehensive, aiming to make arts education accessible to a diverse student body. While specific figures and eligibility criteria are subject to change annually, prospective students are encouraged to contact the university’s financial support services early in their application process to ensure they are aware of all available funding opportunities, application deadlines, and required documentation.

The Illustration programme at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers students a comprehensive and creative environment to develop their skills in visual storytelling, character design, and narrative composition. The curriculum emphasizes a broad range of artistic techniques, including traditional drawing, digital illustration, and mixed media, enabling students to explore different styles and methods to express their ideas effectively. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to cultivate their unique artistic voice while gaining a solid foundation in composition, colour theory, and visual communication. The programme also integrates theoretical studies in art history, visual culture, and storytelling, providing students with a contextual understanding of their craft and its role in society.

In addition to technical proficiency, students participate in various workshops, collaborative projects, and exhibitions, which help them build a professional portfolio and gain practical experience in the industry. The programme fosters a dynamic learning environment where students receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors, many of whom are practicing illustrators and artists. Furthermore, HKU University of the Arts Utrecht maintains strong connections with the creative industries, offering students opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world projects.

Students are encouraged to develop projects that reflect contemporary social issues, personal narratives, or imaginative worlds, preparing them for diverse career paths such as freelance illustration, concept art, publishing, animation, and visual development for media. The programme also equips graduates with entrepreneurial skills necessary for establishing their own creative ventures. With its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on innovation, the Illustration programme at HKU prepares students to become versatile and insightful visual storytellers capable of making meaningful contributions to the arts and culture sector.