Illustration

Why choose this course?

The BA Illustration at the University of Northampton puts the power of storytelling and visual communication at the heart of what we do.

The course emphasises the importance of supporting students to develop their own visual language through a range of media and approaches from page to screen, 3D, installation and interaction. Through this holistic programme you can experiment and innovate using idea generation and real-world application to create work with meaning and purpose. Other highlights include:

• Strong links with industry plus lots of opportunities to work with ‘live’ projects, competition briefs and collaboration with other subjects.

• Access to specialist resources with technical instruction and support such as; printmaking, photography, sculpture, 3D printing, lasercutting, VR and digital media.

• Opportunities to exhibit your work publicly.

• Mac computer design and reprographics suite.

UON’s Design Studies subject area was ranked 16th based on overall student positivity out of all universities in England, according to the latest 2025 National Student Survey (NSS)*

Our Illustration course has been successful in the 2026 Guardian University Guide as part of the Graphic Design subject grouping:

Ranked 10th for Satisfied with Teaching for Graphic Design**

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027***.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost****, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score across all NSS questions for this subject area across all modes and levels at UK Universities.
✱✱ Data taken from the 2026 Guardian University Guide Graphic Design Subject table, filtered by Satisfied with Teaching.
✱✱✱ eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information
✱✱✱✱ eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information

Course Modules

STAGE 1:

• Exploring Creative Practice (Compulsory)

• Roles and Contexts (Compulsory)

• Creative Projects (Compulsory)

• Critical and Cultural Perspectives (Compulsory)

STAGE 2:

• Becoming Illustrators (Compulsory)

• Creative Collaborations (Compulsory)

• Visual and Material Culture (Compulsory)

• Illustration Practice (Compulsory)

STAGE 3:

• Professional Portfolio (Compulsory)

• Careers for Illustrators (Compulsory)

• Illustration Insights (Compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 26/27 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly. 27/28 entry modules will be released in June 2027.

The course is assessed in a number of ways:

• Illustration projects

• Competitions

• External assignments

• Presentations

• Portfolio and exhibition displays

• Reports

• Essays

• Dissertation.