Bachelor of Fine Arts - Illustration

Illustration is the interpretation and translation of text and narrative into visual form. The Bachelor of Fine Arts is a professional degree with concentrated areas of specialization. At University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, students have the advantages of a university education where they can diversify studies and expand career opportunities.

The program will focus on the understanding and application of meaning as it applies to visual communication. Learners will be introduced to specialized areas such as book illustration, character development, concept art, and documentary illustration and experience in the fundamental principles of color, composition, drawing, and rendering.

The Illustration curriculum combines traditional studio media—drawing, painting, and printmaking—with contemporary electronic media. The program emphasizes stylistic experimentation and the imaginative use of visual metaphor.

Through close work with faculty, students will explore: • tools, techniques, and surfaces • symbolism, sequencing, and advanced perspective • integration of digital processes