Illustration, Bachelor of Arts

Who is the Bachelor's Degree in Illustration at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences suitable for?

The Illustration programme (Bachelor of Arts) at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences is aimed at everyone who wishes to develop their drawing and creative talents into a professional career. The target group includes individuals interested in visual communication, art and design, who can envision themselves working creatively in editorial teams, publishing houses, agencies or in the game, film and cultural sectors in the future. The programme is of interest both to school graduates with general or subject-specific university entrance qualifications and to career changers with a portfolio and artistic talent who want to expand and professionalise their skills.

Overview of admission requirements

• General university entrance qualification (Abitur), subject-specific entrance qualification or a comparable qualification
• Fully completed online application via the university's application portal
• School leaving certificate (for international applications: if applicable, officially certified translation)
• Proof of sufficient English skills (since the teaching is in English), e.g. through Abitur certificate or language certificate
• Curriculum vitae and copy of passport
• Portfolio or work folder with at least 15 samples of work (own illustrations, sketches, thematic series etc.)
• Applicants from non-EU countries: an additional admission test is required

Admission is not based on the numerus clausus (NC), but especially on artistic aptitude, motivation and a convincing portfolio of own works.

Personal requirements for a successful degree

• Interest and passion for art, drawing and visual media
• Creativity, openness to new approaches and media (analogue and digital)
• Willingness to participate in individual and collaborative projects as well as practical exercises
• Initiative in developing your own style and expanding your creative repertoire
• Curiosity about experimental and innovative design techniques
• Commitment to being able to accept feedback and to develop over the long term
• Communication skills, especially in presenting your own work and exchanging ideas within a team

The degree is recommended for you if you enjoy creative work and storytelling through images and can imagine using illustration as both a cultural and professional tool in a targeted way.

What will you learn in the Bachelor's degree programme in Illustration?

In the Bachelor's degree programme in Illustration at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, you acquire comprehensive skills to create visual content and tell stories. The course combines traditional techniques such as drawing, painting and printmaking with modern digital methods. You engage with illustration as a cultural, social and communicative tool and gradually develop your own style. The content includes, among other things:

• Fundamentals of illustration: drawing, painting, printing techniques
• Digital illustration and concept art, for example for games and animations
• Storytelling using comics, storyboards and visual narrative formats
• Development of individual creative processes and workflows
• Analysis of illustrations in media such as the press, publishers, advertising, websites and apps

The programme places emphasis on practical experience in both analogue and digital projects. You work closely with experienced lecturers and benefit from industry expertise.

What is the course structure of the Illustration programme?

The Illustration degree at UE lasts six semesters (equivalent to three years). In the fifth semester, you have the opportunity to complete an internship or spend a semester abroad. A total of 180 ECTS credits are awarded. The programme starts are possible in both the winter and summer semesters. The language of instruction is English.

• Semesters 1–4: Teaching of fundamentals and specialisation in techniques and media
• Semester 5: Internship or study abroad
• Semester 6: Final projects and presentation

As part of your studies, you work on practice-oriented projects, such as designing infographics, comics or storyboards. Workshops with external experts from the creative industry take place regularly.

What career prospects does the Illustration degree offer you?

After graduation, you can work in various areas of the creative industry. Typical fields of work include:

• Freelance or employed illustrators
• Designers in editorial offices, publishing houses and agencies
• Positions in design studios, advertising agencies and branding
• Illustration for animations, film and game productions
• Collaborations with museums and cultural institutions

According to established job portals, the gross starting salary for illustrators in Germany ranges from 2,000 to 2,300 euros per month. With more professional experience, average salaries of around 2,700 to 3,000 euros are possible. Freelancers earn hourly rates of approximately 50 to 150 euros, depending on the sector and experience.

Where can you study Illustration?

The on-campus Illustration programme is offered at the Berlin and Hamburg locations. Both cities are characterised by a vibrant cultural scene and offer numerous opportunities for inspiration and networking. Berlin in particular is a hotspot for creatives, street art and design. Practical projects, exhibitions and workshops with local artists are an integral part of the concept. For example, Prof. Hans Baltzer is responsible for the programme at the Berlin site.

What costs should you expect for the course – and how can you finance it?

The tuition fees currently amount to 744 euros per month for EU applicants. For international students from non-EU countries, annual fees of 12,700 euros are charged (information for the winter semester 2026; later changes possible). The university provides additional information and advice on financing options such as scholarships, BAföG, student loans or instalment payments.