Discover your voice and hone your distinct style to tell compelling visual stories.
Overview
The Illustration program includes the study of traditional, mixed, and digital media in 2 and 3D applications. In our program, students develop techniques and approach through a wide range of illustration projects designed to promote exploration across the field. As students move into their upper-level studies, they are encouraged to build a body of work specific to their point-of-view as an illustrator. Through discussions and critiques, students advance through to their final body of work to be displayed in their professional package.
Our outstanding studios are equipped with industry-standard programs and technologies to support a wide range of projects in a hands-on studio environment. In addition to studios, our “maker-spaces” assist students in preparing portfolios and framing, printing (2D, 3D, laser, and fabric), digital photography, audio/video production, and sensor technology for interaction projects.
Clubs including Arts Alive and Break Thru Design let you connect and collaborate with peers to develop additional portfolio pieces, while internships and co-op opportunities add to your professional qualifications.
Curriculum
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The Art BA - Illustration track allows you to specialize in illustration and pursue a second major or minor that complements your career goals.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
For talented students seeking a demanding program with a high degree of focus, the Studio Art BFA - Illustration track offers in-depth study of illustration. Students will develop a final body of work for their portfolio and as they prepare for graduation will have the opportunity to present their work at the BFA exhibition.
Bachelor of Arts - Art, Illustration track Bachelor of Fine Arts - Studio Art, Illustration track
Tyler Art Gallery
The recently renovated Tyler Art Gallery allows students the opportunity to exhibit their work, and in some cases gain experience curating and installing their own show. The gallery on campus is just one place students may showcase their work, Oswego keeps a very active schedule for students to present at Oswego State Downtown and SUNY Oswego in Syracuse.
Outcomes
- Create a portfolio to present at interviews
- Gain familiarity with the works and intentions of major artists/designers and movements of the past and the present, both in the Western and non-Western worlds
- Develop ease of presenting work and discussing intentions and execution
- Attain ability to analyze works of art/design and critically evaluate them Build technical skills, perceptual awareness- and understanding of visual organization principles
Career Opportunities
- Medical/Scientific Illustrator
- Storyboard Artist
- Book Illustrator
- Advertising Illustrator
- Art Director
Program Resources
Internships
Learn what it's like to work in a professional setting while still in school.
Get Involved
- Arts Alive
- Break Thru Design
- Photography Club
- Student Art Exhibition Committee
Chancellor's Award for Faculty
Cynthia Clabough has earned the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Faculty Service.
Faculty-Led Courses
This unique programs allows students to spend a few weeks studying a course topic before traveling to their destination abroad to experience what they learned in person, on location.
Study Abroad
Take classes and participate in internships while immersing yourself in all that region has to offer.
Application Requirements
The BFA Studio Art, Illustration track is limited to select students chosen through an additional application process. In addition to applying to SUNY Oswego through the Common or SUNY application, interested students must also submit a BFA Application.
The BFA application requires:
- portfolio submission, pdf or website with 15 pieces of your artwork
- annotated worklist including information on how it was made, concept, date, size, medium
- a letter of intent (500-1000 words)
- transcript pdf
- include drawings/paintings from observation - still life, figure, portraits
Additional information:
- Students may apply to the BFA program at any time, application reviews are on a rolling basis.
- Transfer students are strongly encouraged to apply to the BFA programs prior to coming to Oswego.
- You may submit your portfolio a second time if you fail to gain admission on your first try.