Science Illustration

Develop your skills in traditional and digital illustration while preparing for a professional career in science communication.

Bringing Science to Life Through Illustration

The Science Illustration Certificate program trains you in the art and science of visual storytelling. Over nine months of full-time, in-person classes followed by a professional internship, you gain the skills and experience needed to enter the field of science illustration. From field sketching and botanical studies to digital media and exhibit design, you work hands-on with expert faculty and industry professionals.

Whether your goal is to illustrate textbooks, contribute to scientific journals or educate the public through museums and exhibitions, this program equips you with the tools to visualize science with clarity and creativity.

Program Highlights

As a student in the Science Illustration Certificate program, you will benefit from:

A 9-month in-person studio and field curriculum (September–June)
Professional internship following academic coursework
Emphasis on both traditional and digital media
Opportunities to work with real specimens and on location
Guest lectures from industry experts
Final exhibition at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History

Program Structure

You will complete three quarters of in-person coursework followed by a summer or fall internship. The full program takes approximately 12 to 15 months to complete.

Coursework (September – June)

Foundational training in drawing, painting and digital media
Courses include: Field Sketching, Digital Illustration, Botanical and Zoological Illustration, Applied Techniques and more
Professional development seminars and special topics

Internship (July - December)

After completing academic coursework, you will complete a 10-week internship with an organization of your choosing. Past hosts include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Smithsonian Institution, Scientific American and the California Academy of Sciences.

Learn in the Studio and the Field

Through courses in field sketching, botanical and zoological illustration, and digital techniques, you will explore how to render the natural world with scientific accuracy and artistic expression. Assignments emphasize observational drawing, media experimentation and conceptual development.

“Having a one-on-one mentor — that made me feel comfortable going to someone to ask for help.”

-Jacqueline Rajerison

Prepare for a Professional Career

Courses in professional practices and design for print, web, and motion prepare you to navigate the business side of illustration. You will curate a final gallery show alongside your internship.

Admissions

Admission is limited to 18 students per year. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and submit a portfolio, statement of purpose, transcripts and letters of recommendation.

How to Apply

Programs

Science Illustration Certificate

Prepare for an invigorating career bridging art and science. Develop your skills to create visuals that effectively explain complex scientific issues, research and other subject matter as a way to build scientific literacy and environmental stewardship.

Explore the Science Illustration Certificate

Girl sitting in front of computer and smiling

Explore Department of Science Illustration

Department News

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Butterfly illustration by Science Illustration Program graduate Taylor Maggiacomo

Excellence by Design: Science Illustration grad rises to top of her field as visual storyteller

CSUMB Science Illustration Program graduate Taylor Maggiacomo is an award-winning visual storyteller who is at the top of her profession at National Geographic and The New York Times.

Alex Boersma, The Whale Who Swam Through Time

An alumna shows (and tells) history through the eyes of a whale

Alex Boersma, a 2017 graduate of the Science Illustration program, co-wrote and illustrated a book about the the longest-lived mammal on Earth.

Support for Your Journey

11_MicahCarr_Anenome — Illustration by Micah Carr

Organizations and Community

Our program fosters a strong sense of community through collaborations, guest lectures, and exhibitions. You can also participate in summer science illustration courses, which are open to all skill levels.

Illustration of snake, trunk and leaves — Illustration by Fiorella Ikue

Explore Science Through Art

Our certificate program combines academic rigor with creative exploration. With hands-on experience, industry mentorship and professional exposure, you’ll graduate well prepared for your career.

Ready to Learn More?

Have questions about science illustration? Our team is here to help.

Contact the Science Illustration Program

Email us at scienceillustration@csumb.edu or call 831-582-5159.

Sign up for Program Updates

Fill out our interest form to receive updates about the application cycle for the certificate program, summer classes, and our end-of-year exhibit of student work, “Illustrating Nature."