During this low-residency programming, students immerse themselves in a concentrated creative environment where they can explore and improve their art skills and knowledge of picture book fundamentals with classroom and studio practice led by leading creators in the field and a well-known illustrator-in-residence who offers one-on-one appointments and a workshop over three-days each year. The Certificate offers working artists and art teachers a program to develop a personal vision and style for today’s picture book market. Four sequential art courses make up the Certificate program: Illustration Media, Drawing, Design, and Portfolio. They are offered during summer, fall, spring, and summer semesters, giving students the opportunity to experience two weeks on campus at the end of each summer semester to participate in the Francelia Butler Conference (FBC), attend the Book Launch Event and Illustrators’ Showcase, enjoy the biennial Alumni Retreat or Literature Symposium, and experience the book characters placed around our green and rolling Appalachian campus.
Certificate credits fulfill much of the Illustration component of the M.F.A. in Children’s Book Writing and Illustrating, and may also be counted toward that degree.
Reach out to schedule an appointment with Dr. e Dulemba to go over the degree rubric and see how the M.F.A. program might best fit into your life. dulembaeo@hollins.edu.
(Applications are due one month before each semester begins.)
Tuition and Costs
$900 per credit hour for summer 2025.
Fees
- New student nonrefundable deposit: $400
- Returning student nonrefundable deposit: $200
- Housing: $1,400
- Technology fee: $165/summer
- Health services: $50
M.F.A. applicants must send 10-20 pages of written work. You’ll need to provide two letters of recommendation. GRE scores aren’t required but may be submitted. Undergraduate transcript must be submitted.
Non-degree seeking students
Some courses are available for students or alumni who would like to take an individual course without it applying to a degree.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Hollins offers scholarships and financial assistance. Review our offerings.
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“There’s nowhere else on earth like Hollins! The campus is beautiful, the program is one of a kind, and the people are like family.”
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The KidLit Bookstore
Discover the creative heart of Hollins University at our bookstore, where every book highlights the talent of our students, alumni, and faculty. From enchanting children’s stories to stunning illustrations, these works celebrate the vibrant imagination of our community!