Areas of Study
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration
Illustration Program Description
Whether there is a story to be told, a problem to be solved, or a point of view to be expressed— the illustrator provides the vision.
At Maine College of Art & Design, our Illustration degree encourages students to work independently while learning under the close guidance of award-winning professionals in the field. Our program is an intensive course of study that combines artistic rigor with real-world experience.
We are deeply rooted in fundamental artistic skills and practices. Students learn to think critically while developing concepts, narratives, and settings to create unique and individual imagery.
We work to ensure that students can clearly articulate their work and process to find solutions that go above and beyond the obvious choices.
The Illustration program faculty brings their daily practice of business, craft, concept, and aesthetics to their teaching. As illustrators and educators, they teach and present current experiences from their own specific fields of illustration. Faculty emphasize the need for a practice that includes editing and refinement, research, and informed solutions, including ways to incorporate students' interests and individuality.
Life After Graduation
Our Illustration degree alumni are working as freelance illustrators, creating illustrations for books, magazines, logos, posters, wine labels, album art, murals, and storefronts. They are full-time art directors in agencies and employed in toy and game companies. Some of our alumni are educators, and others become entrepreneurs. Alumni also work and show in galleries, as well as create products to sell online and in shops.
Gallery
Program & Outcomes
Faculty
Sample Courses
- IL 110 Methods & Media in Illustration
- IL 240 Setting the Scene
- IL 306 The Graphic Novel
- IL 310 Picture Book
- IL 330 Illustrative Typography
Workspace & Tools
All second through fourth-year students have access to the illustration studio, which includes:
- Large-scale Wacom/Cintiqs
- 11” X 17” flatbed scanner
- 28 "Epson printer
- Risograph
All third and fourth-year Illustration majors have access to individual workspaces with 24-hour access.
Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- Articulate their work within a historical and contemporary context.
- Demonstrate the expressive nature of illustration in a variety of medium.
- Communicate ideas visually, solve problems, and think critically.
- Develop techniques and skills to service content.
- Demonstrate professional practices within the field of illustration.
- Employ knowledge about the history of illustration, contemporary theories, and practice in their work.
- Speak critically about the illustration work of others from both historical and contemporary perspectives.
Course of Study
Foundation Year
Fall
- FN 101 Digital Imaging
- FN 109 3D: Materiality
- FN 113 Two-Dimensional Design
- Studio Elective
- EN 100 English Composition
- SEM 100 First Year Seminar
Spring
- DR 100 Introduction to Drawing
- FN 110 4D: Space & Temporality
- FN 108 Research & Inquiry – Studio
- SEM 108 Research & Inquiry – Academic
- AH 101 Art History Survey I
Sophomore
Fall
- IL 104 Intro to Ink for Illustrators or IL 107 Portrait Drawing in Illustration
- IL 240 Setting the Scene
- Studio Elective (Student Choice)
- AH 102 Art History Survey II
- Academic Elective
Spring
- IL 110 Methods and Media in Illustration
- IL 212 Illustration in Context
- Studio Elective (Student Choice)
- AH 250 Critical Approaches to Contemporary Art
- Academic Elective
Junior
Fall
- IL 321 Illustration Majors Studio
- SEM 355 Illustration Junior Seminar
- Approved Studio Elective
- Art History Elective
- Academic Elective
Spring
- IL 322 Illustration Majors Studio
- IL 351 Introduction to the Discipline
- Approved Studio Elective
- Art History Elective
- Academic Elective
Senior
Fall
- IL 421 Illustration Majors Studio
- SEM 451 Professional Studio – Illustration
- Approved Studio Elective
- 2 Academic Electives
Spring
- IL 423 Illustration Majors Studio
- 2 Approved Studio Electives
- 2 Academic Electives
Course Catalog Listing
Illustration Program FAQ
What careers can I pursue with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration?
A Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration prepares graduates for a wide range of creative careers. Alumni work as freelance illustrators, art directors, educators, product designers, and gallery artists, as well as in publishing, advertising, and game and toy design. Many also build independent businesses or develop their own creative products.
What types of Illustration classes will I take in the program?
You’ll take a mix of illustration-specific studio courses, general studio electives, art history, and academic coursework. Sample illustration classes include Methods and Media in Illustration, Setting the Scene, The Graphic Novel, Picture Book, and Illustrative Typography. The curriculum is designed to help you build both creative and professional skills over time.
How will earning an Illustration degree help me build a professional portfolio?
Courses and faculty mentorship are structured to support portfolio development throughout your time in the program. You’ll complete a range of professional-quality projects, refine your work through critique, and receive guidance on preparing your portfolio for employment, freelance opportunities, or graduate study.
What skills will I develop that apply beyond illustration?
In addition to illustration techniques, you’ll strengthen your ability to think critically, solve problems visually, conduct research, and communicate complex ideas. These skills apply broadly across creative disciplines and support success in collaborative, interdisciplinary, and client-driven work.
How does the Illustration program prepare me for an evolving creative industry?
The Illustration program stays connected to the current landscape of illustration and visual communication. You’ll learn to work across media, adapt to new tools, and apply your skills in different contexts, from print and publishing to digital platforms and entrepreneurial ventures. Faculty and visiting professionals help ensure that students understand both timeless principles and current industry trends.
Apply for Our BFA and Major in Illustration
Every successful illustration starts with a strong idea and the ability to bring that idea to life.
At Maine College of Art & Design, our BFA in Illustration combines rigorous studio practice with professional preparation, helping you develop your voice as a visual storyteller. Whether you want to illustrate books, design products, or build a freelance career, this program gives you the tools to do it.
Apply today and start creating work that makes an impact.