Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme centres on sequential narrative: how to conceive, script, design and execute comics and graphic novels across a range of formats and media. Teaching combines traditional drawing and print techniques with digital production, animation for sequential work and publishing processes.

• Year 1 / Introductory modules – foundation skills in observational drawing, anatomy, composition, colour, typography and visual storytelling; introduction to comics language such as panel-to-panel transitions, pacing and page layout; workshops in life drawing and image-making techniques.
• Intermediate modules – development of longer-form narrative projects, character and world building, sequential composition, scripting and storyboarding; experimental approaches combining illustration and moving image; technical workshops in digital illustration, inking, printmaking and book-binding.
• Final year / Major project – a sustained self-directed graphic project (for example a graphic novel, serialized comic, or professional comics portfolio) supported by research methods, critical reflection and a professional practice module covering pitching, rights, publishing and self-promotion; options for a placement or collaborative industry project.
• Assessment and learning – assessed through practical projects, portfolios, sketchbooks, reflective journals and occasional written work; emphasis on building a cohesive body of work and a prepared professional portfolio.

Typical skills and topics covered

• Sequential narrative techniques and story structure
• Character design, visual development and worldbuilding
• Traditional drawing, inking and print processes
• Digital production: vector and raster workflows, page layout and preparation for print/web
• Lettering, page design and editorial illustration
• Publishing practice, self-publishing, crowdfunding and professional representation
• Collaboration, pitching and presentation skills

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a suitable level of secondary education such as A-levels, BTEC, or an equivalent international qualification. Selection is made on the strength of an applicant's portfolio, personal statement and interview; a demonstrable commitment to drawing and sequential storytelling is important. The programme typically requires a portfolio showing observational work, narrative experiments and finished pieces.

• Portfolio: a selection of recent work demonstrating drawing ability and narrative thinking; this is the primary element of selection.
• Interview: shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview or to submit further work as part of the assessment process.
• English language: international applicants must meet the University's standard English language requirements (evidence of proficiency required for whom English is not a first language).
• Other qualifications: mature applicants or those with alternative credentials are encouraged to apply and may be assessed on the strength of their portfolio and experience.

Career prospects

Graduates from Illustration for Comics go into a range of creative careers. Many become professional comic artists and graphic novelists, producing work for independent and mainstream publishers or self-publishing. Others move into related roles in animation storyboarding, concept art for games and film, editorial and commercial illustration, children’s publishing, visual development and character design.

• Comic artist / graphic novelist (independent and commercial publishing)
• Storyboard and concept artist for film, TV and games
• Illustrator for editorial, publishing and advertising
• Book designer, letterer and page-layout specialist
• Self-publishing entrepreneur, zine-maker or small-press publisher
• Further study: MA courses in illustration, comics, animation or related creative disciplines; teaching and academic pathways

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a studio-focused environment with dedicated art and design facilities where students can experiment with both traditional and digital techniques. Teaching blends creative practice with professional preparation so that students graduate with a polished portfolio and understanding of the publishing and creative industries.

• Studio teaching and small-group crits that emphasise individual development and peer learning.
• Access to specialist workshops and digital labs for printmaking, book production and digital finishing.
• Opportunities for collaboration across courses and to exhibit work in university and public-facing show spaces.
• Proximity to Oxford’s cultural resources, festivals and independent publishers, supporting networking and professional opportunities.

Overall, the programme is suited to students who want to refine their narrative illustration practice, learn the business of comics production and build a career as published creators or creative professionals working with sequential imagery.