APPLICANT GUIDE
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Hello Again!
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We’re so excited to take the next step in getting to know you and reviewing your portfolio. The following instructions should guide you through the next steps...

1. POPULATING YOUR DIGITAL PORTFOLIO
To help us get started, please upload your work into the digital folder which was provided via email. You can easily drag and drop digital images (JPEGs or other formats) or share links to your website, blog, or appropriate social media accounts such as instagram.
Just click the ‘+’ button to add links.

Feel free to organise your work in any way that suits you. You can create additional folders in your portfolio using the same ‘+’ button to keep everything neat and easy to navigate.

2. THEN WHAT?
Once your portfolio is complete, and you’re happy with how everything looks, please send us a confirmation email to:
dwayne.bell@cumbria.ac.uk
with the subject line:
‘(Your Name) has successfully uploaded and is ready for a chat!’

3. INTERVIEW
We’ll then be in touch to arrange a short one-to-one online interview, which we prefer to call a friendly chat. It will be held over Microsoft Teams, and you won't need to install any software to attend.

While you're here, we invite you to explore the videos and links on this page. They’ll give you a taste of who we are, what sets us apart, and what exciting opportunities a degree in Illustration from the University of Cumbria can offer you!

Looking forward to chatting soon!

Regards,

​Dwayne and the Team

portfolio tips

We completely get it—putting your portfolio together can feel a bit overwhelming!
Believe it or not, we’ve been in your shoes, and we remember exactly how it feels. But don’t worry, you’ve got this!
To help you shine and make the process as smooth as possible, we’ve pulled together some top tips to guide you every step of the way.

recent work

Curious about what our students have been creating?
Take a look and get inspired!

Our students are constantly experimenting with different materials, techniques, and styles—there’s no single 'house style' here. Each student’s work is as unique as they are, and we encourage them to find the approach that suits their personal vision.

​From traditional drawing and painting to digital media, mixed materials, and
everything in between, you’ll see a range of creative voices in our gallery. Who knows? You might just find some inspiration for your own portfolio!

ALUMNI WORK

Wondering where a degree in Illustration could take you?
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Our graduates have gone on to collaborate with some of the biggest names across the creative industries, from the BBC and Netflix to The Guardian, Rolling Stone, and Lonely Planet. Whether it’s illustrating for major publications, designing for global brands, or working on exciting new projects, our alumni are making their mark all over the world.
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With a degree from us, who knows where your creativity could lead?