ILLUSTRATION BASICS
In our foundation courses, you’ll learn the essential basics of illustration – from light & shadow to perspective, form & color, sketching, design fundamentals, and calligraphy.
ILLUSTRATION DESIGN
Vocational training at Hamburg Campus or Online
WELCOME TO
ILLUSTRATION DESIGN PROGRAMME
The art of illustration: Where talent meets design
Illustration is a timeless and universal form of visual storytelling. With just a few strokes, an illustrator can create entire worlds—whether through traditional techniques like painting, drawing, and printmaking or with modern digital tools. Illustrations help us understand complex ideas, from infographics in newspapers and magazines to visuals that bring books, comics, and advertisements to life. They shape storyboards, concept art, and designs for films and games, and in animated form, they play a key role in motion design and animation.
If sketches, doodles, and comics have always been part of your life, if pens, paper, and a graphics tablet are your daily companions, and if you’re considering a future in design—then we just might have the perfect opportunity for you!
ILLUSTRATION ADVANCED
In addition to the fundamentals, you'll also get to know key Adobe Creative Cloud programmes like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign. This will open up the entire world of digital illustration for you!
ILLUSTRATION PRO
Whether it’s concept design, book illustration, character design, or digital art – illustration offers endless ways to express your creativity, and we’ll show you how! This way, you’ll be fully prepared for your future career.
You can find a complete overview of the programme content here:
Choose a vocational training at htk academy
Develop your creative skills and experience student life in one of Germany’s most vibrant cities:
- No university entry qualification required.
- Earn a vocational certificate that qualifies you to work in Germany.
- Work part-time while studying with a student visa.
- Gain industry-relevant skills to work as an illustrator.
- Opt to pursue a top-up bachelor’s or master’s degree in Germany.
- Live in vibrant Hamburg, surrounded by a wealth of design studios and creative agencies
Prestige
htk academy has become one of the leading German vocational schools, nurturing the creative minds of tomorrow since 1987.
Hamburg
Hamburg’s illustration and graphic design scene is one of the most dynamic in Germany. At htk academy, you’ll study in a city that fosters creativity, home to numerous design agencies and illustrators shaping the industry..
Post study
You can qualify to work in Germany with your vocational certificate or continue your studies at htk’s sister institutions and earn a top up degree in design!
Flexibility
We believe that personal and professional commitments should never hinder your creative growth. That’s why we offer you the flexibility to choose between on-campus and online studies.
ALL EYES ON
WHY HTK HAMBURG?
- A rich and vibrant cultural scene
- A diverse and international student community
- A stylish and well-equipped campus
- A more affordable cost of living compared to the USA and the UK
- Numerous studios and publishers based in Hamburg
- Stunning waterside views to inspire your designs
BEST OF
ILLUSTRATION DESIGN
Starving artist, comic illustrator… At first, my career prospects didn’t look great. Then, at HTK, I discovered the possibilities of illustration. Today, I create illustrations for Der Spiegel and National Geographic.
Samson Julian Götze
htk academy alumnus
EVERYTHING AT A GLANCE
FACTS
QUALIFICATION htk vocational certificate
LANGUAGE English
MONTHLY FEES € 584 (standard). For discount and scholarship options, please contact Student Recruitment Team: here
STUDY MODE Campus Hamburg or online
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Secondary school diploma or working experience
APPLICATION Online
VISA info here
We understand that every student’s situation is unique, which is why we provide a range of personalised savings opportunities to make your education more affordable. Speak with one of our expert student advisors to learn more about your options and eligibility.
Online option
If you are unable to join your Illustration Design classes on campus, htk academy offers the opportunity to study your programme entirely online.
NEXT START DATES
01.09.25
Hamburg & online
01.03.26
Hamburg & online
01.09.26
Hamburg & online
First-hand experience: How comprehensive is the training at htk?
Jacob gives you a brief insight into our training. Having studied Communication Design, he shares how the support from lecturers helped him continuously expand his portfolio and what he values most about htk.
ON CAMPUS OR ONLINE
OUR EVENTS
Exciting news! We’re launching monthly online workshops to support your learning.
OPPORTUNITIES & POSSIBILITIES
CAREER PROSPECTS
With our comprehensive training, we prepare you for a wide range of opportunities in the creative industry.
- Concept Designer
- in Animation & Motion Design
- Product Illustrator
- Book Illustrator
- Illustrator in a design agency
- Character Designer in the gaming industry
- In-house Illustrator in agency or publishing houses
SOUND ON!
MUSIC TO INSPIRE DESIGN & CREATIVITY
Whether it’s gaming or development, music is key to the perfect experience. Our Spotify playlists are tailored for every occasion!
DID YOU KNOW?
The longest-running comic book in the world is Walt Disney’s Comics and Stories. First published in 1940, it’s still going strong today!
Want more fun facts? Alright! Johannes Comenius published the very first picture book for children –Orbis Pictus (The Visible World in Pictures) – all the way back in 1658!
A huge thank you to all illustrators who enrich the world with their unique talents and creative ideas. Your work tells stories, evokes emotions, and inspires us all. Thank you for your passion and the dedication you put into every illustration – you make the world more colourful and fascinating!
ANY QUESTIONS? JUST ASK!
STUDENT ADVISORY
READY?!
START YOUR ADVENTURE
Now it’s up to you! You can apply directly, request info material, or schedule a consultation with our student advisory team first.
GOOD TO KNOW
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Illustration design is more important than ever.
Many brands have realised that strong illustration helps them stand out and create a better experience for their customers – great news for designers like us! With the overwhelming amount of information we encounter daily, it’s more crucial than ever for systems and media to be high-quality and easy to use. And that’s exactly what we do: we shape visual communication.
Many brands have realised that strong illustration helps them stand out and create a better experience for their customers – great news for designers like us! With the overwhelming amount of information we encounter daily, it’s more crucial than ever for systems and media to be high-quality and easy to use. And that’s exactly what we do: we shape visual communication.
The answer is: Yes! Thanks to major tech companies and the rise of digital products, everyone now recognizes the importance of smart and well-crafted design. The industry is booming – whether in advertising, branding, or beyond, countless opportunities await you.
And the best part? You’re not limited to just one career path! With our broad-based training and your chosen specialisation, you’ll have the flexibility to explore a wide range of creative jobs.
And the best part? You’re not limited to just one career path! With our broad-based training and your chosen specialisation, you’ll have the flexibility to explore a wide range of creative jobs.
Does it all seem a bit overwhelming? Don’t worry – we start small! Many newcomers, despite their talent, worry about whether they’re good enough or have enough prior knowledge. But no need to panic – we’ve got this together! We start with the basics, teaching you the essential tools and methods, along with typography, design language, and time management. As you progress, we gradually increase the level of challenge – always at a pace that works for you.
Sitting at a computer all day? Think again! Sure, the computer is your main tool – but our courses bring plenty of variety to your daily on Campus routine! Whether it’s a visit to an agency or studio, a trip to a printing house or an exhibition, or even working on real projects with companies and agencies, there's always something happening. Beyond your regular courses, you’ll also have access to extra workshops – or why not explore an interdisciplinary course from one of our other programmes?
Hamburg isn’t just a city—it’s an experience! As one of Europe’s most dynamic creative capitals, it offers the perfect blend of innovation, culture, and opportunity. Here’s why htk academy Hamburg is the ideal place to kick-start your creative career:
- A thriving creative Hub: Hamburg is home to top-tier game studios, cutting-edge design agencies, and renowned animation studios. The city’s creative scene is constantly evolving, offering countless networking and career opportunities.
- A launchpad for your career: The demand for international creative talent is high. Many global companies and innovative startups are based in Hamburg, making it an excellent place to find internships, freelance work, or full-time positions after graduation.
- A city designed for young people: With an efficient and affordable public transport system, diverse cultural experiences, and a welcoming international community, Hamburg is a city that supports and inspires young people at every step of their journey.
- An unmatched Lifestyle: Whether you’re drawn to the stunning waterfront, the buzzing nightlife, or the city’s endless creative events and exhibitions, Hamburg offers a unique atmosphere where inspiration is always around the corner.
Simply submit your portfolio and apply online through our website. Our admissions team will review your application and guide you through the next steps. Alongside an admission interview, where we’ll introduce you to htk and answer your questions, we’ll need:
- A Secondary School Certificate
- A Portfolio ( 10–15 pieces) showcasing your creative skills (drawings, graphic design, game concepts, etc.)
- English or German Proficiency (Minimum B2 level recommended)
- A Visa (if required): If you plan to study in Hamburg, you may need a student visa. Our team can guide you through the process.
- Study and work in Germany: Germany allows students to work while studying, so you can gain practical experience alongside your education.
- Pathway to Further Studies: After completing your program, you can apply for a top-up Bachelor’s or Master’s programme at our partner BSBI at Campus Hamburg.
Flexible Learning – On Campus or Online: Choose between studying in Hamburg, an international creative hub, or online with the same high-quality education.
STILL NEED
MORE DETAILS
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
You can get more information about our Illustration Design programme with our free info material.