East Sussex College has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework.These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Our BA Visual Communication Illustration programme will equip you with the creative skills to communicate a range of narratives and messages. This includes the generation of strong ideas but also your own unique approach to the use of visual language. The course is hands-on covering a wide range of processes and materials including etching, relief and screen-printing, 3D, book arts, mixed media, digital technology as well as the core activity of drawing. The programme embraces illustration within the context of commercial illustration industry including live briefs and work experience but you will also learn to create one-off artefacts and multiples. The course will teach you about how you can apply your work in a commercial setting and the skills that you need to do this successfully. Your newly acquired skills and knowledge will give you the edge in this diverse industry enabling you to do the work you love. For example you could illustrate books, take on editorial assignments or self-publish. You will also learn a range of transferable skills that will equip you for related careers in education, community arts, arts administration. Our tutors will draw on their years of industry experience to help you learn from real life examples but will also provide real value and quality through their experience as teachers.
Modules
The first year will give you a thorough introduction into Illustration. You will discover the broad cultural history of visual communication referencing the history of illustration since c.1900. We will challenge your assumptions about the nature and scope of drawing; you’ll explore the relationship between image and text, and understand the mechanics of visual communication including visual language, cultural context and function. The second year will build on the knowledge you have gained in year 1, helping you to develop a more assured and critically informed language and direction in your studies. You’ll also extend your understanding and expertise in the wider context of self-publishing, including mixed media, printmaking, book arts, digital practice and type, setting you up perfectly for your final year projects. In your final year, you will be able to cultivate innovative approaches and reflect upon past practice. You will contextualise your work and undertake your dissertation project and fine tune your illustration skills further by undertaking work experience, all helping you to find your future pathway in the industry.
How to apply
25Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
Please select a course option – you will then see the application code you need to use to apply for the course.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
Entry requirements for advanced entry (i.e. into Year 2 and beyond)
Year 2 - 120 CAT points Year 3 - 240 CAT points Content of completed modules must be able to be mapped across to learning aims/outcomes of this course. Please contact us for further information.
International applicants
International students will need IELTS 6.5 overall with a 6 in writing. For visa information visit http://www.escg.ac.uk/study/international/visas/
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 64 points
A level - CC - DDE
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MPP
Access to HE Diploma - M: 15 credits P: 30 credits
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MM
We welcome applications from mature students without formal qualifications, and will consider relevant work experience and/or a portfolio. Please contact us for further information.
Additional entry requirements
Interview
Portfolio
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | International students require a 6.5 overall with a 6 in writing. |
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Channel Islands | £7995 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £7995 | Year 1 |
| England | £7995 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £7995 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £7995 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £7995 | Year 1 |
| International | £9000 | Year 1 |
| EU | £9000 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Studying with us will give you excellent value for money. Our lower fees, compared to many other universities, help you to save money while getting the very best from our expert tutors.
Provider information
East Sussex College
Station Plaza
Station Approach
Hastings, East Sussex
TN34 1BA