Life After College for Illustration Majors

I'm very passionate about illustration and considering it for my major in college. But I'm a little nervous about the job market for illustrators. After graduating, what kind of jobs do most illustration majors get?

It's understandable to be nervous about the market, but happily, there are myriad opportunities for Illustration majors after college. It's important to remember that studying Illustration provides graduates with a broad range of transferable skills, like creativity, vision, technical proficiency, and the ability to work independently or collaboratively.

1. Freelance Illustrator: Many illustrators choose to freelance, as this provides a great deal of flexibility and creativity. Freelance illustrators might work on various projects, including designing logos, illustrating books, creating prints for clothing, or even licensing their work for use on items like greeting cards and home goods.

2. Graphic Designer: Illustration majors can also go into graphic design. In this job, you'd create visual content for clients or employers. This could include designing marketing materials like brochures and posters, building website layouts, or drumming up package designs for products.

3. Animator: If you have a passion for storytelling and motion, you might work in animation. Animators can work on commercials, feature films, cartoons, or even video games.

4. Storyboard Artist: Working alongside directors and cinematographers, storyboard artists sketch out film scenes, helping the crew visualize what a movie will look like before filming begins.

5. Art Director: With ample experience, illustration majors might apply their creative and organizational skills to oversee a creative team, controlling the visual style and presentation for things like magazines, product packaging, film and television, and more.

6. Teaching: Many Illustration majors also find fulfillment in teaching, whether at the high school or college level. This way, they can pass on their passion and expertise to the next generation.

Remember, building a career in illustration often depends more on skills, portfolio, and networking than simply holding a degree, so be sure to make the most of opportunities to build your portfolio and connections while in college.