Illustration Level 6

The Illustration course at Ballyfermot College is a unique two-year programme designed to help students develop strong visual language and narrative skills. This Level 6 course focuses heavily on drawing, digital media abilities, and commercial viability, guiding learners to create a highly professional portfolio. Students explore a wide spectrum of illustrative practices—from children’s books to graphic novels—preparing them for a successful freelance or studio career.

Certification

In Year 1, students earn a Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate in Art and Design (Art Practice). Upon successful completion of Year 2, graduates receive a Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma, which QQI formally recognises as comparable to an NFQ Level 6 Higher Certificate.

Course Content

This highly practical course immerses students in studio-based and industry-linked assignments. Learners actively develop their unique style across various mediums, receiving valuable feedback to prepare them for commercial illustrative practice.

Year 1

• Concept & Development

• Creative Project

• Illustration

• History and Context of Illustration

• Professional Development

• Life Drawing

• Illustration & Digital Media

• Representational Illustration

• Visual Narratives

• Techniques & Practices

Year 2

• Personal Professional Development

• Professional Project

• Advanced Illustration

• Conceptual Practice

• Professional Practice

• Advanced Life Drawing

• Art Direction for Advertising

• Commercial Illustration & Branding

Suitability

This course perfectly suits school leavers looking to build a professional portfolio, or mature students returning to education with a passion for visual storytelling. In addition, it is ideal for aspiring artists who want to establish themselves as successful freelance illustrators, or secure roles in publishing, editorial design, and advertising.

Requirements

Academic Requirements:

• Year 1 Entry: A minimum of one H5 in Art and another O1/H5 grade, plus three O6/H7 grades in the Leaving Certificate / LCVP (or equivalent).

• Alternative Year 1 Entry: A relevant QQI Level 5 award with a merit profile (such as Illustration Techniques and Practices, or an Art Portfolio course).

• Year 2 Entry: Students who successfully complete Year 1 progress automatically. Applicants holding an equivalent Higher National Certificate may apply directly to Year 2, subject to module compatibility.

Portfolio Requirements:
Applicants must bring a professionally presented portfolio of recent, original work to their interview. This should include:

• 10 to 15 pieces of recent artwork, which must feature observational drawing.

• Personal work that is creative and conceptual, spanning techniques like painting, collage, textiles, or printmaking.

• Sketchbooks that highlight your influences, idea generation, and the development of your work.

• Photographs of any three-dimensional work you have created.