Do you need a degree in the Illustration field to succeed? If so, what level of education is recommended?
These questions are common for students in arts-based majors. For the Illustration: Entertainment Design field, it truly depends on the type of job you are looking for and what you hope to learn in school.
No Degree
There is no “required” degree for most entry-level jobs in Illustration. Every job has different standards, but most employers will look at portfolios, experience, and even your professional network instead of only your academic skills.
While you can succeed without a degree, it is easier to build experience, skills, and connections in a degree program.
Careers Available with No Degree
The jobs from this list apply to the lists below as well. Some careers available to those without a degree include:
- Animation
- Game Design
- Comic Illustration
- Freelance Work
- Storyboard Art
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree is recommended for students in Entertainment Design. It develops your skills, provides mentorship, and gives you experience.
Similar to the “No Degree” section, building a portfolio and your professional network is important; earning a bachelor’s degree makes those easier.
Careers Available with a Bachelor’s Degree
Some available jobs include:
- Animation and Game Design
- Advertising Illustration
- Product Illustration and Design
- Technical Illustration
- Art Education and Therapy
- Forensic Animation
Master’s Degree
While a master’s degree is not needed in every Entertainment Design career, it can help you hone your skills or prepare for higher-level jobs. Earning a master’s degree in Illustration includes taking specific courses, like Visual Effects (VFX) classes or Directing and Production courses.
Careers Available with a Master’s Degree
Available careers with this degree include:
- Animation Director
- Art Supervisor
- Senior Visual Effects Artist
- Gallery Administration
Doctoral Degree
Most jobs in Entertainment Design do not require a doctorate. However, earning a doctorate can help you be a better leader, build your research skills, and teach you how to use animation in non-entertainment fields.
Careers Available with a Doctoral Degree
- Animation or Illustration Professor
- Animation Technology Developer
- Technical Director
- Computer Graphics Researcher
Conclusion
No matter the degree you choose in the Entertainment Design field, your hard work and dedication will be an advantage. In each level of education, students have found success; it all depends on what degree you think will help you most.
Sources:
Why Study Animation? | MetStudios
BFA in Illustration - ArtCenter College of Design
Do You Need an Animation Degree? Discover the Pros and Cons | ianimate.net
2026 Animation Degree Levels Explained: Bachelor's vs Master's vs Doctorate | Research.com