Kingston University

MA in Illustration

Course content

Through tutorials, field trips, lectures, seminars, workshops and research projects, you will gain the technical skills, critical tools, knowledge and confidence needed to contribute to the development of the subject and its practice. You will be asked to examine your own practice and identify existing practice-based research methods, which will then be developed by introducing discipline-specific notions of rigour, originality, ethics, positioning and inclusivity.

Modules have been designed and aligned to ensure that students are able to make intellectual links between practice, critical theory and real-world scenarios. In doing so, this programme prioritises the development of an individual practitioner and their creative work.

There is an emphasis on independent and self-directed learning where students are given autonomy to develop a practice that supports their aspirations and ambitions. Skills in critical reflection and analysis provide you with the tools necessary to make decisions about your practice and learning trajectory. Students are provided with the opportunity to initiate, propose, and realise an Extended Research Project (Capstone Project) that is ambitious in scale and scope.

Studio modules include the development of illustration skills, concepts and practice through project work and utilise the studio as a site for making. Reading modules focus on critical and contextual theory or issues and positioning practice critically. Presentation modules orient students within a professional landscape and include preparation for employment through the development of future skills and career planning. Reading and presenting modules are shared with the Animation MA and Graphic Design MA Programmes.

Year 1

Core modules

• Studio: Extended Research Project for Illustration
• Studio: Situating Practice for Illustration
• Reading: Critical Positions
• Presentation: Future Directions
• Studio: Critical Making for Illustration

Optional placement year

Many postgraduate courses at Kingston University allow students to do a 12-month work placement as part of their course. The responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; we cannot guarantee the work placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.

Core modules

• Professional Placement

After you graduate

You’ll complete this course equipped for opportunities in a range of areas, from publishing and commissions to emerging areas in research and public engagement.

Recent graduates have progressed to roles in project consultancy, direction and management. Others work in publishing, curation, exhibition and engagement in the cultural sector and beyond. You could even go on to teach and lead higher education initiatives that expand how images can contribute globally.

Links with business and industry

On this course, you’ll benefit from our strong national and international industry links. We collaborate with many organisations to make sure modules address the changing nature of communication design in the global workplace.

Here are a few examples of our recent connections:

• We recently produced a pan-European magazine with Illy Coffee in Italy.
• London’s Draught Associates have offered portfolio reviews, professional guidance and internships.
• Students have regular opportunities to add to their portfolio through competitions.
• We’ve collaborated with Hongik University in Korea, focusing on new technologies, professional networks and new opportunities for designers.