Illustration
Area of Study: Visual Communication and Design
Degrees/Certificates:
Associate of Applied Business degree in Visual Communication and Design, Illustration
Short-Term Certificate in Visual Communication and Design, 3D Animation
Short-Term Certificate in Visual Communication and Design, 3D Design
Academic School: Creative Arts
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) offers an Associate of Applied Business degree in Visual Communication and Design with a concentration in Illustration. Short-Term certificates in 3D Animation and 3D Design are also available.
Tri-C’s Illustration curriculum integrates the latest digital graphics applications and technologies with drawing and principles of visual communication and design. Students gain skills in drawing and painting using traditional methods and media, analog and digital rendering techniques, raster and vector graphics, 3D graphics and modeling, 2D and 3D animation, and illustration techniques for narrative. Throughout the program, students develop technical skills by exploring the fundamental concepts of form, design, communication, aesthetics, and creative problem-solving. In addition to learning how to create high-quality 2D and 3D illustrations for a wide range of creative and commercial projects, students learn about the various roles professional illustrators can play in the marketplace.
Tri-C’s Illustration faculty is made up of working professionals with diverse educational backgrounds and work experience. Through hands-on instruction, project-based learning and using industry-standard workflows and technologies in class, Illustration students develop the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the industry. Students graduate with a portfolio showcasing interdisciplinary skills in illustration for 2D and 3D projects, animation, and digital design for either applying to a four-year degree program, or for attracting potential employers and clients.
Career Outlook
Graduates from the Illustration program are prepared for the following positions:
- Freelance illustrator
- Staff illustrator
- Cartoonist
- Storyboard artist
- 3D Modeling Artist
With additional experience and training, graduates can aspire to the following positions:
- Concept artist
- Technical illustrator
- Children's book illustrator
- Editorial cartoonist
- 3D Architectural artist