Overview

The Illustration programme at Academy of Art University provides students with the advanced technical training and conceptual depth required to excel in the modern creative economy. This curriculum is designed to transform artistic passion into a professional career through rigorous studio practice and mentorship from industry experts. Students engage with traditional and digital media to refine their personal style while meeting contemporary market demands.

Why Illustration at Academy of Art University?

The university offers a "No Barriers" education model that prioritises talent and dedication over standardised testing. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated painting studios equipped with anatomy resources, model stands, and an extensive prop room containing over 2,500 items. The environment encourages interdisciplinary growth, allowing artists to collaborate across various creative fields and utilise professional-grade equipment labs and printmaking centres.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on mastering visual storytelling and technical execution. Modules may include:

Anatomy
Visual Development
Digital Media
Traditional Painting
Printmaking
Portfolio Gallery
Studio Arts
Conceptual Illustration

Careers with Illustration

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global creative industry. Alumni have successfully secured positions at major organisations such as Disney Theatrical Group, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Lincoln Motor Company. The focus on producing a professional portfolio ensures that students are ready to work as freelance illustrators, concept artists, or visual designers. The university's strong industry links and career services support students in transitioning from the studio to professional practice.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Clothed Figure Drawing

Perspective for Characters & Environment

Digital Painting

Color Theory

Concept, Technique and Illustration

Character Design for Children's Books

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design View 88 other Masters in Graphic Design in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application
$50 application fee
Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
Resume
Portfolio

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Illustration.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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