About this Program

This program is undergoing revision and will be offered again in autumn 2021.

Natural science illustration combines the beauty of nature with the precision of scientific observation. Working in both traditional and digital formats, science illustrators produce work for publication in textbooks, science journals and online sites and exhibition in museums and art galleries.

In this certificate program, you’ll learn to render detailed zoological and botanical illustrations using a variety of media. We’ll cover a comprehensive set of nature illustration skills using carbon dust, color pencil, stipple pen and ink, watercolor and gouache. You’ll study principles related to forms, biomechanics and structural diversity found in the animal kingdom. Learn digital illustration and online publishing techniques and get tips on contracts, copyrights and how to market your work.

DESIGNED FOR

Artists who want to hone their visual illustration abilities and scientists who want to add or improve these skills.

See Requirements

what you'll learn

• The fundamental principles of anatomical, cellular and physical form and function
• How to depict form using light, line, measure and perspective
• How to accurately create zoological and vertebrate scientific illustrations
• How to produce wildlife and botanical drawings, including field sketches
• Methods to enhance the presentation of finished work

get hands-on experience

• Study and render biological specimens provided by the program
• Practice digital illustration techniques
• Take field trips to sites such as the Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium and Skagit River Wildlife Refuge
• Compile a personal illustration portfolio