Course summary

Illustrators work within many disciplines, and are able to visualise, elucidate and extend the meaning of a given field of knowledge or information and communicate ideas and narratives to specific audiences. The contemporary practice of illustration is multidisciplinary, incorporating drawing, printmaking, traditional and digital media, model making, performance and collaborative, interactive practices. The MA in Illustration programme is designed for creative practitioners who wish to advance their knowledge, skills and specialism within this expansive field. Each student will develop a practice-led investigation within this broader context, actively constructing a bespoke body of design knowledge which combines theory, practice, research, entrepreneurship and innovation from a wide range of creative and research-driven activities. They will be taught to question and expand their creative thinking and generic design process by developing their analytical skills; engaging in critical dialogues; work independently, collaboratively and interdisciplinary; experimenting in a range of directions before delivering professional and innovative outcomes to defined audiences with confidence. All creative activities are supported by strategic thinking, robust methodologies and informed by practice-led research. This programme aims to develop a deeper understanding and fuel a personal obsession with the visual communication of ideas, continually asking: What is possible within the visual realm of image, narrative and motion design? Features —While studying towards a particular qualification at MA/MFA level, students experience their subject in the broader context of contemporary design practice. —Dedicated spaces for the postgraduate community have been developed to enable the postgraduate community to flourish. These spaces, for thinking and practice, are located at the heart of Manchester School of Art, allowing easy access to an extensive range of workshops where the combination of traditional and state of the art equipment opens up a world of exciting possibilities. —You will be taught by research active staff who are part of the Manchester School of Art Research Centre and experts in their field. —The University library has outstanding Art and Design holdings, including a special collection of artist's books and ephemera.