Illustration with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

**Course Summary**<br/>The BA Illustration with Foundation Year at Middlesex University is ideal for creative individuals who aspire to a career in illustration but may not have the traditional qualifications or portfolio to enter directly into a degree programme. The foundation year is designed to build your confidence, technical skills, and creative approach, preparing you for progression onto the full degree.<br/><br/>**Why choose this course at Middlesex University?**<br/>Our Illustration degree is based in The Grove, a state-of-the-art creative learning facility where you will have access to your own workspace alongside specialist facilities, including print, ceramics, photography, film/audio, 3D, and digital printing. The course combines traditional techniques with modern digital practices, ensuring you develop a versatile skill set as a professional illustrator. During the foundation year, you’ll benefit from a dedicated programme that supports you in developing fundamental skills like drawing, observational practice, and critical thinking. You’ll also have access to creative workshops to experiment with a variety of materials and techniques, and a strong focus on nurturing your creative confidence and personal style, guided by experienced staff who are practising illustrators and designers with excellent industry links. Middlesex’s location in north London provides access to world-class museums and galleries for inspiration. The foundation year is an exciting introduction to the world of illustration, preparing you for the challenges and opportunities of the full degree programme.<br/><br/>**What you will gain**<br/>You will gain foundational knowledge in drawing, composition, and visual storytelling, laying the groundwork for advanced study. You will gain experience with both traditional illustration techniques and digital tools, supported by state-of-the-art equipment. You will develop creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills that are highly transferable across industries. You will gain the confidence to tackle briefs, develop your unique style, and progress into the competitive world of illustration. Graduates from Middlesex University have gone on to successful careers in magazine publishing, children’s book illustration, editorial work, advertising, and animation. The foundation year ensures you’ll be ready to make the most of these opportunities as you advance in your studies.

Join Middlesex University London, the #1 UK uni for student satisfaction, course quality and employability - voted by students (Uni Compare, 2026). Clearing is your chance to do more than get a degree. It’s your path to becoming the best version of yourself. They support you to grow academically, personally and professionally, with flexible routes and hands-on learning from day one. From your first lecture to your final assignment, you’ll gain the skills, confidence and real-world experience to grow further than you thought possible, all backed by tailored support and practical resources like free course equipment, gym membership, expert advice and one-to-one guidance.<br/> <br/> All this takes place on the university's vibrant, inclusive North London campus – a space to truly belong. Middlesex is where over 160 nationalities come together with mutual respect and celebration. Middlesex is where state-of-the-art facilities bring out the best in students, enabling you to hone skills that will set you apart from other graduates.<br/> <br/> Ready to discover the next version of you? Apply now.