Overview

The Illustration programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a comprehensive environment to refine their artistic skills and professional practice. This curriculum is designed to help creators move beyond basic tools to discover a distinct visual identity that resonates within the global creative industry. By engaging with expert faculty and high-end facilities, students transform their passion into a purposeful career path.

Why Illustration at Academy of Art University?

The institution is renowned for its "no barriers" approach to education, ensuring that creative potential is the primary focus. Students benefit from extensive facility highlights, including dedicated painting studios equipped with model stands and a vast prop room containing over 2500 items for reference. The university also provides access to specialised labs, such as the printmaking studio and the only complete neon sculpture studio in California, fostering an interdisciplinary environment where traditional art meets modern technology.

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

Modules may include:

Anatomy
Painting
Printmaking
Silkscreen
Intaglio and Relief
Sculpture
Ceramics
Visual Development
Digital Media

Careers with Illustration

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles across the creative sector, moving into industries such as entertainment, publishing, and advertising. Alumni have successfully secured positions at major global organisations, including Disney Theatrical Group and Warner Bros. Discovery. The focus on portfolio development ensures that students leave with the practical skills required to lead creative teams, win industry awards, and shape contemporary culture as professional illustrators and designers.

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
- 36 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

63 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design View 89 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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