Illustrators create work that is consumed, enjoyed and valued by society and reflect current cultural events and more.
MICA's Illustration majors explore a variety of traditional and digital approaches to illustration fostering technical proficiency along with imaginative problem solving and entrepreneurial thinking.
Tracks in sequential art and preproduction offer focused study for students interested in the comics, graphic novel, video game, and film industries. Interdisciplinary options for specialized study include studio concentrations in book arts, animation, graphic design, and printmaking.
Sophomore Year
A variety of approaches in the use of materials, styles, and markets are explored in the sophomore year in the courses Sophomore Illustration I and II. In addition, two electives in illustration offer an opportunity to further define technical skills and explore possibilities within the major.
Junior Year
Confronting the challenges of problem-solving, collaboration, and development of ideas with insight and originality are addressed in the junior year in their Junior Illustration I and II classes. Students further identify their strengths and personalize their coursework through a variety of electives in the department.
Senior Year
Seniors are mentored in two semesters of portfolio building work in Senior Illustration I and II to prepare a solid body of work in order to become professional illustrators. Professional Development for Illustrators includes portfolio preparation, business practice, intellectual property, and copyright issues.
September 2025
Maryland Institute College of Art
1300 West Mount Royal Avenue,
BALTIMORE,
Maryland,
21217, United States
Applicants must provide the equivalent of a high school qualification. English language proficiency: MICA requires a minimum TOEFL score of 75 (MyBest scores are accepted), an IELTS score of 6.0, or a PTE score of 58. Application deadlines: For Spring - Nov 1 and for fall – Feb 1.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.