Artists who work as illustrators develop a strong, personal style in their images and use it to support the communication needs of a wide variety of clients. One of the best ways to become an illustrator, and learn the requirements of the field, is to study with working professionals.
At Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, our faculty members guide illustration majors through a curriculum emphasizing strong concepts, knowledge of industry standards and a solid foundation of drawing skills, using industry techniques ranging from manual to electronic and photographic. This balance of conceptual and technical courses help students find their own styles and develop them to the highest possible professional level. Courses in the business of illustration and portfolio preparation also ready students for their future careers.
Illustrators need to meet this industry's high professional standards as soon as they graduate. At Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, illustration majors frequently compete to produce professional assignments for clients brought to class by faculty. Students are required to enter national competitions and given the opportunity to take on professional assignments in their senior year.
Illustration students complete a mentorship before entering their senior year. This opportunity to produce work for actual clients beside a seasoned professional is the most valuable type of real-world experience an illustration student can have.
Examples of career opportunities for illustrators:
Publishing
Technical publications
Animation
Greeting cards
Advertising
Children's books
Games/Interactive