Here's what some of our students have to say about studying Natural History Illustration:

Past Students

Fiona, Graduated in 2003
I chose to study Natural History Illustration at Newcastle because of its reputation, as this is the only university in Australia which conducts this program.
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Lyn, Graduated in 2005
In the three years of this degree, I learnt not only the true art of illustration, but also the ability to truly appreciate our environment and the wildlife that surrounds us. With the encouragement and support from the invaluable staff I gained the confidence and the skills to complete works in my final year for the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Australian Museum in Sydney.
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Current Students

Melanie, Third Year
The boundaries of natural history illustration are infinite and this allows me to utilise my creativity to its maximum potential. I look forward to combining my interest in the environment and the art in my future career.

Jessica, Third Year
I decided to do this course because I wasn't happy with the other options out there. At any other university, I would have had to go either into a fine art or a science degree. Luckily for me, this program provides a good combination of those two interests! It also covers topics that are relevant to your career, such as graphic design, as well as developing a good basis for skills as an illustrator.

Sue, Honours
I have always loved drawing and painting plants and animals and was very excited to enrol in the Bachelor of Natural History Illustration (Honours) program. It has given me the discipline and direction to refine my skills and the opportunity to visit interesting habitats and venues. I now look at natural history through different eyes.

Chris, Honours
Natural history illustration has opened doors I never dreamed possible. It has given me the opportunity to travel overseas and work with professionals in the field of archaeology, allowing me to combine my interests in art, science and the past: all without exams!

Jess, Third Year
When I moved to Newcastle to study natural history illustration, I didn't know anyone. I have really enjoyed studying in such a close-knit group. The camps are a great opportunity to get to know each other and I have made some life-long friends.

Liz, Third Year
I came to the University of Newcastle to study natural history illustration expecting to both enhance and broaden my artistic skills and my scientific knowledge of the natural world. Over the course of the program, I have done just that! I have been able to strengthen my own ability and knowledge and become aware of the extensive applications for natural history illustration in society.

Robyn, Third Year
The program has been fascinating, with field trips to places like the museum and herbarium, and some fantastic behind-the-scenes experiences. I have enjoyed studying a mix of scientific and medical illustration to broaden my skills.

Christine, Third Year
During the last three years I have changed my artistic focus and direction three times. It started with an insatiable interest in insects, then plants and now puppets! The program has opened up possibilities I couldn't have foreseen at the beginning.

Deb, Third Year
My interest in botanical art led to me enrol in this program. However, I soon found out there was so much more to learn. The university's bushland grounds provide me with inspiration and are a valuable flora and fauna resource.