The Illustration Minor prepares students to enter a world where boundaries between artistic disciplines are constantly changing and art is activated in the service of multiple audiences, in diverse venues and across existing and emerging markets. This minor provides a curriculum emphasizing strong concepts, proficient skills, and civic mindedness to support the communication needs of a variety of contexts, including client-led publications, merchandise, and self-directed exhibitions. A balance of conceptual, historical, and technical instruction helps students locate their own style, voice, and conceptual foothold to meet the rich opportunities afforded by today’s shifting creative landscape. Illustration minors may participate in the Communication Arts Department's senior show on a case-by-case basis with approval from the Department Chair.
Eligibility
The Illustration minor is open to students majoring in Digital Media, Environmental Design, Fashion Design, Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Product Design, and Toy Design. Students must be on track in their major and in good academic standing, with fewer than 6 credits behind and a cumulative GPA of 2.0. Graphic Design minors may participate in the Communication Arts Department’s senior show on a case-by-case basis with approval from the Department Chair.
Required Courses
| AHCS222 | History of Graphic Design, Illus. & Advt. Design | 3.0 |
| ILUS300 -or- | Communication Studio III / Illustration III | 3.0 |
| ILUS301 | Communication Studio IV / Illustration IV | |
| COMD216 / ILUS212 -or- | Drawing & Painting I | 3.0 |
| COMD217 / ILUS213 | Drawing & Painting II | |
| ILUS310 | Drawing & Painting III | 3.0 |
| Illustration electives | 3.0 | |
| Total Credits | 15.0 |
Course Descriptions are listed in the Communication Arts and Liberal Arts and Sciences sections of the Course Catalog.
Download one of the following PDFs to see how the Illustration minor fits into your chosen major:
For students who entered Otis College as Foundation students in 2019-20 (class of 2023):
Illustration Minor Academic Plan 19-20
For students who entered Otis College as Foundation students in 2020-21 (class of 2024):
Illustration Minor Academic Plan 20-21
For students who entered Otis College as Foundation students in 2021-22 (class of 2025):
Illustration Minor Academic Plan 21-22
Learn more about Interdisciplinary Studies, eligibility requirements, and the application process.