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Bachelor of Arts

Illustration: Publishing Emphasis (B.A.)

Department of Art
In the Illustration: Publishing major, students learn all about the publishing industry field. They gain necessary skills and practices to develop a portfolio, network, and work towards employment after graduation.

Publishing Introduction

Students gather around their professor as he shows them a technique for illustration.
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Illustrators use creativity, critical thinking, and artistic skill to solve some of today’s most challenging commercial needs. In this major, you will develop core skills in drawing, painting, digital, and mixed media.

There are two Illustration emphases at BYU-Idaho: Publishing and Entertainment. While they are similar, the Publishing program is more focused on published, printed work. This major:

  • Focuses on projects like picture books, graphic novels, magazine illustrations, and personal commissions. 
  • Encourages students to network and build portfolios.  
  • Teaches students how to improve drawing, painting, and digital illustration skills. 

Highlighted Courses

If you are interested in Publishing Illustration, start with one of the following major-specific courses
Design and Color
March 11, 2026 08:49 AM
ART 107
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Drawing I
March 11, 2026 08:49 AM
ART 110
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Adobe CC Basics
April 01, 2026 11:29 AM
ART 125
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Introduction to Graphic Design
April 13, 2026 09:19 AM
ART 130
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2D Digital Illustration
April 13, 2026 09:20 AM
ART 245R
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Character Animation I
April 13, 2026 01:18 PM
ART 248R
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Narrative Illustration
April 13, 2026 01:25 PM
ART 341R
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Business for the Professional Artist
March 11, 2026 08:51 AM
ART 392
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4-Year Plan
See Example Class Plan
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See all required courses

Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho graduates in design-related fields.

1 year

$37,041

Average Salary

5 years

$57,769

Average Salary

10 years

$56,877

Average Salary

Explore More Details

This data is based on outcomes for BYU-Idaho graduates with a degree in this major, using federal Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) data. It reflects actual earnings and employment over time, rather than job market estimates.

Career Possibilities for Illustration and Publishing

Graduates with a degree in Illustration, with a Publishing emphasis, have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Here's just one of them. Explore more career options in I-Plan!

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Illustration and Publishing

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
Graphic Design
Find the Right Fit
BYU-Idaho Courses in Illustration Publishing
August 19, 2026 10:45 AM
An Illustration Publishing (B.A.) degree at is a fun, in-depth, program that offers specialty courses to prepare students for future careers in art and illustration.
1 Min Read
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Entertainment Illustration
Career Possibilities
Career Paths and Challenges for Illustration Publishers
August 19, 2026 10:53 AM
Discover career path opportunities for publishing illustration majors as you prepare to enter the job market.
1 Min Read
Read More
Entertainment Illustration
Industry Insights
How to Market Yourself as an Illustrator
August 19, 2026 10:55 AM
Developing both technical and soft skills is essential for illustrators looking to market themselves and stand out in the hiring process.
1 Min Read
Read More

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics
AI in Publishing
You will engage in critical industry discussions regarding the ethical and creative role of artificial intelligence in contemporary professional practice. Our program emphasizes original human led artistry while exploring how to navigate emerging technologies responsibly to ensure your creative work remains authentic and commercially viable.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

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Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
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Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
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Learn More About Publishing Program

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