Comics and Graphic Novels

Comics and graphic novels occupy a distinct and rich space in visual culture, combining sequential imagery, typography and narrative in ways that no other medium quite replicates. From superhero serialisations to long-form autobiographical works, the form has expanded dramatically in scope and ambition over recent decades, and there is now a well-established critical tradition and a vigorous professional industry behind it. Studying this subject means taking both the artistic craft and the cultural significance of visual storytelling seriously.

At Teesside University you will spend four years developing your skills across the full range of disciplines the medium demands. You will explore the fundamental principles of design and composition, study image creation techniques using graphics software, and learn how to construct form and three-dimensional space within the flat page. Photographic source material and digital tools feature alongside traditional drawing practices, giving you a flexible technical repertoire.

The programme includes a sandwich placement year, giving you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional environment and develop your portfolio in an industry context. The work placement element means you will leave with practical knowledge of how creative studios, publishers or production companies operate day to day. A typical entry tariff of 136 UCAS points applies.

Graduates from comics and graphic novel programmes go on to work as illustrators, comic artists, concept artists, storyboard artists and art directors. Some move into adjacent fields such as animation, game design or editorial illustration. Others pursue careers in publishing, arts education or self-directed creative practice, producing and distributing their own work through an increasingly accessible range of platforms.

Further study at postgraduate level in illustration, animation or visual communication is also a natural progression for those who want to deepen their research or teaching interests.