Illustrators

High School

Creative talent is more important in this field than education. However, there are academic programs in illustration at most colleges and universities. If you are considering going on to a formal program, be sure to take plenty of art classes while in high school. Elective classes in illustration, ceramics, painting, or photography are common courses offered at many high schools.

Postsecondary Training

To find a salaried position as a general illustrator, you should have at least a high school diploma and preferably an associate's or bachelor's degree in commercial art or fine art. Whether you are looking for full-time employment or freelance assignments, you will need an organized collection of samples of your best work, which is called a portfolio. Employers are especially interested in work that has been published or printed. An advantage to pursuing education beyond high school is that it gives you an opportunity to build your portfolio.

Medical illustrators are required to earn a bachelor's degree in either biology or art and then complete an advanced degree program in medical illustration that has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. These programs usually include training in traditional illustration and design techniques, color theory, computer illustration, two-dimensional and three-dimensional modeling and animation, web design, prosthetics, medical computer graphics, instructional design and technology, photography, motion media production, and pharmaceutical advertising. Course work will also include pharmacology, basic sciences including anatomy and physiology, pathology, histology, embryology, neuroanatomy, and surgical observation and/or participation.

Fashion illustrators should study clothing construction, fashion design, and cosmetology in addition to taking art courses. They should also keep up with the latest fashion and illustration trends by reading fashion magazines.

Certification

The American Institute of Graphic Arts offers professional development certificates in business fundamentals, client relations, entrepreneurship, project management, small business management, and other areas. Visit https://www.aiga.org/professional-development/certificates-for-creatives for more information. Colleges and universities provide certificate programs in illustration, general art, business management, and related fields. Programs are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats, and they typically last six months to a year.

Other Education or Training

Illustrators need to continue their education and training while pursuing their careers. They can always improve their artistic skills, and must keep up with the latest innovations in design techniques, computer software, and presentation technology, as well as technological advances in the fields for which they provide illustrations. The American Institute of Graphic Arts, Association of Medical Illustrators, Society of Illustrators, Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and other organizations provide a variety of continuing education classes, workshops, webinars, and seminars. Contact these organizations for more information.