Bachelor's Degree in Studio Arts: Illustration (BFA)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Arts with an Illustration Emphasis is a professional degree that focuses on intensive work in visual communication and design principles supported by a program of general studies. Students with this emphasis will develop essential illustration skills and a portfolio of artwork to assist in launching their career.
Career Opportunities in Illustration
An illustration student's degree will culminate in preparation of a body of work that will enable them to promote a career and/or apply for further graduate studies. This body of work will be exhibited to the public and featured in a personal, online portfolio website.
- Entertainment Art—Concept art for movies, feature film, cartoons, video games, etc.
- Publishing—Book covers, children’s books, graphic novels, comics, etc.
- Advertising—Printed or online ads and ad campaigns.
- Editorial—Printed or online magazines and newspapers.
- Licensing—Art for consumer merchandise and products.
- Self-Publishing—Self-initiated illustration projects produced for a body of fans or followers.
Degree Outcomes
Graduates will have developed competencies in preparing illustrations in a variety of media and subject matter from roughs to finished pieces. They will have worked with current technologies related to illustration. They will have developed practical communication skills and business skills related to their market/s of choice.
Students must demonstrate creative ability and potential in visual art. They must also show strengths in problem-solving and self-motivation. The Department of Art and Design at Southern Utah University has a faculty of committed artists/educators who guide and involve students in many small group and individual endeavors that promote aesthetic and critical thought and skills.