Completed over the course of two summers, the Certificate in Children’s Book Illustration offers working artists and art teachers a program to develop a personal vision and style for tomorrow’s picture book market. Courses explore and improve students’ art skills and knowledge of picture book fundamentals with studio practice and an in-depth study of both past and contemporary picture book illustrators.
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.
Courses
Students undertake four courses of six credits each over two six-week summer terms taught by leading author-illustrators. Students learn from a diverse range of visiting speakers over the six-week summer term, including workshops by a prominent author-illustrator. Final-semester students get a portfolio review and feedback from a major publishing house.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Hollins offers scholarships and financial assistance. Review our offerings
Costs
2025 summer term: $900 per credit hour.
Technology fee: $165.
Application Deadline: April 15
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Kelly Byquist M.A. ’23
“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!