Flexible Learning Certificates

Illustration Stream

Flexible Learning Certificates

Illustration Stream

Establish your personal style and storytelling skills as an illustrator.

A Visual Arts Certificate in the illustration stream equips you with core techniques, processes and concepts for a professional practice.

Explore digital and traditional tools while developing your creative voice. Build a versatile portfolio, apply illustration in contemporary and commercial contexts and prepare for opportunities across creative industries.

A stylized digital illustration of a girl underwater among lily pads and plants. She gazes excitedly at a school of golden glowing fish, her hand reaching toward them. Air bubbles rise around her as her red hair floats, blending with the magical, luminous scene.

Courses in this Certificate Stream

Subject Core – Required 1 Courses
Course Name Course No. Availability
Introductory Illustration CSIL-100 Spring 2026
Subject Core – Select 2 of the following 4 Courses
Course Name Course No. Availability
Elements + Principles of Art CSVA-100 Spring 2026
3D Materials + Media CSVA-101 Spring 2026
Industry Intro: Visual Arts CSVA-102 TBA
Colour Theory CSHT-102 Spring 2026
Subject Electives – Select 4 of the following 7 Courses
Course Name Course No. Availability
Introductory Drawing CSDR-100 Spring 2026
Narrative Illustration CSIL-101 TBA
Digital Tools for Illustrators CSIL-110 Spring 2026
Illustration for Client-Based Work CSIL-111 TBA
Character Concepts CSIL-112 Spring 2026
The Graphic Novel CSIL-113 Spring 2026
Illustrating Nature CSIL-114 Spring 2026
Common Electives – Select 3 of the following 14 Courses
Course Name Course No. Availability
Western Art History: An Introduction CSHT-100 Spring 2026
Colour Theory CSHT-102 Spring 2026
Creative Writing CSSC-100 Spring 2026
Story: An Introduction CSSC-101 TBA
Storyboarding CSSC-102 TBA
Scriptwriting CSSC-103 TBA
Rapid Visualization CSID-160 TBA
Photo Story: Spaces, Places + the Everyday CSPH-010 Spring 2026
Introductory Printmaking Techniques CSPR-100 TBA
Introductory Screen Printing CSPR-104 TBA
Introductory Adobe Photoshop CSSO-100 Spring 2026
Introductory Adobe Illustrator CSSO-101 Spring 2026
Adobe CC Essentials CSSO-109 TBA
Introductory WordPress CSWD-100 TBA
Extending + Enriching Electives – Select 3 of the following 11 Courses

Getting Started with Flexible Learning

Browse the FAQs below for information about getting started, courses, assessments, required materials and more.

Flexible Learning Certificates FAQs
How do I get started?

You can take Continuing Studies courses on their own or as part of a Flexible Learning Certificate.

Before registering for a course, review the recommended prerequisites or self-assess your knowledge to ensure you’re ready for the course level.

Flexible Learning Certificates are open to students aged 19 or older or those who have completed Grade 12. There’s no application required, simply register for each course at your own pace.

What does self-paced learning mean?

Flexible Learning Certificates have no fixed completion timeline. You decide how many courses to take each term based on your schedule, goals, and workload.

We recommend completing your certificate within 2 to 5 years. All courses applied toward a certificate must have been completed within the past 7 years.

Most required courses are offered on evenings and weekends, making them accessible for those with work or other commitments. Browse Individual Courses and register as offerings become available each term.

Which courses should I take?

Each certificate includes a set of Subject Core, Subject Elective, Common Elective and Extending and Enriching Elective courses.

  • Core and subject electives are required and cannot be substituted.
  • Short-term workshops (course numbers starting with 9XX) are not eligible for certificate requirements.

Refer to the certificate webpage for the full list of courses that meet each requirement.

Still have questions? Reach out to an Advisor to book a chat.

In what order should I take courses? 

If you’re new to the subject area, follow the suggested course sequence on the certificate webpage for a gradual learning path.

If you already have prior experience, you can register out of sequence. Just be sure you’ve met any recommended prerequisites. When in doubt, complete prerequisite or foundational courses first to set yourself up for success in higher-level classes.

What is the course load? 

Course workload varies depending on the subject, your learning pace, and how much time you choose to invest in assignments or independent study.

As a general guide, plan for about one hour of homework for every hour of class time. Some studio-based or project courses may require additional time outside of class.

How will I be assessed? 

Assessment is based on assignments, in-class participation, and project work. All Continuing Studies courses are graded Pass (P) or Fail (F).

To earn your certificate, you must achieve a Pass in all core and elective courses. If you do not pass a course, you can retake it the next time it’s offered.

Do I need to buy materials for my courses? 

Most Continuing Studies courses require materials or software, which vary by course. Check the CS Materials Guide linked on each course page for specific details.

Many supplies, such as sketchbooks, essential drawing tools or digital software can be used across multiple courses so you can build a kit that supports your learning throughout the certificate.

When planning your studies, we recommend factoring supply costs into your overall budget.

Can I double-count courses if I’m complete more than one certificate? 

Courses taken as a Subject Elective, Common Elective, Extending + Enriching Elective may only be applied to one certificate stream.

Only courses listed under a Subject Core requirement may be counted toward two certificates and only to fulfill the Subject Core requirement.

How do I request my certificate after completing my courses?

Once you’ve finished all required and elective courses, you can request your certificate by submitting the Continuing Studies Certificate Request Form.

Certificates are printed and mailed twice per year. Check the submission deadlines on the form to ensure your request is included in the next production cycle.

Need Help?

Book a chat with an Advisor.

Office Hours:
Monday to Friday
8:30 am – 4:30 pm (closure 12:30-1:30 pm)
Closed on statutory holidays

Career Paths

Illustration skills open doors to creative opportunities in many industries. With a strong portfolio and knowledge of professional industry practices, you’ll be prepared to adapt to trends, showcase your talents and contribute across diverse fields.

Two people sitting at a table with artwork, including a brightly colored painting of a mantis, a digital illustration displayed on a tablet, and a laptop open beside them.

Your career in illustration may intersect with these creative disciplines and industries:

  • Graphic design
  • User experience design
  • Web design
  • Animation and visual effects
  • Publishing and comics
  • Entertainment, film and gaming
  • Fashion and textile design
  • Advertising and marketing
  • Education

Get the Latest Updates

Our Continuing Studies programs are always evolving. Sign up today to be the first in line for new courses and upcoming registration dates.

A person wearing a mask stands in front of a massive charcoal drawing on brown paper, depicting two deer with large antlers surrounded by dark, sketchy marks. The figure gently places a hand on one of the deer’s faces.