The requirements, reviews, and curriculum for CCA's Illustration program are designed such that graduating students successfully achieve the following program learning outcomes:

CCA Illustration students will demonstrate proficiency with classical and experimental drawing techniques. Each will improve observational skills through life‐drawing and sketchbook practice. They will effectively describe figures, objects, and environments using line, value, and pattern. They will understand how to render objects in light and shadow. They will demonstrate an understanding of perspective drawing. They will be proficient with traditional paint media techniques and understand color theory and its application in effective visual communication.

Students will understand the importance of visual hierarchy, and learn to direct the eye using the organization tools of symmetry, asymmetry, negative space, scale, and directional cues. They will demonstrate an understanding of how value, contrast, and color affect the clarity of visual communication. They will apply these skills to a variety of media and formats, and understand the basics of publication layout and the use of type.

Students will respond to assignments professionally through in‐depth research, the collection of appropriate reference materials, and the taking of effective reference photographs (when applicable). Coherent thumbnails and sketches will demonstrate creative exploration. Students will show they can communicate using humor, symbolism, metaphor and irony. A variety of subjects including literature, history, current events, popular culture, politics and social justice will be addressed. Artwork will effectively communicate concepts, and engage the viewer in a manner appropriate to the context.

Students will demonstrate the development of a unique visual vocabulary. They will push the limits of their artistic abilities and explore a variety of media to find methods and materials which best suit their unique aesthetic and conceptual perspectives.

Students will demonstrate a knowledge of the history of illustration, fine art, and design. They will understand how these disciplines are shaped by world events, and how the arts can effectively engage the viewer and contribute to social dialogue in contemporary culture.

Students will show proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, and apply these skills to layout, color sketching, rendering, image enhancement, and print production.

Students will graduate with a working knowledge of professional business standards, copyright law, small business management, and entrepreneurship. They will demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills. Students will articulate artistic goals, design a business plan, and begin to implement these in their final semesters.

Each will produce a professional portfolio of work, build a résumé, and create print and online promotional materials.