BA Art and History of Art

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
• DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.

Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.

Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.

The BA Art and History of Art program at the University of Reading equips students with a rich combination of artistic practice and academic analysis, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities in the creative and cultural sectors. The comprehensive curriculum not only emphasizes the development of artistic skills but also offers a deep understanding of art history, theory, and cultural studies. This multidisciplinary approach opens doors to various professional paths, both within and outside the traditional art world.

Fine Art Practice and Studio Work: Graduates from the BA Art and History of Art program who are passionate about creating art can pursue careers as professional artists, working in various media such as painting, sculpture, photography, and digital arts. These individuals can exhibit their work in galleries, participate in art fairs, and contribute to public art projects. Many of them establish themselves as independent artists or take on commissions from private clients, institutions, or organizations.

Art Gallery and Museum Careers: The art history component of the program provides graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to work in museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions. Graduates can pursue roles such as curators, museum educators, gallery managers, and exhibition designers. With their understanding of art history, students are also equipped to become art conservators or archivists, helping preserve and manage priceless collections of artwork and artifacts.

Art Auction Houses and Commercial Art Sector: For those interested in the commercial side of the art world, the University of Reading’s program provides excellent foundations for careers in art auction houses, art dealing, and art consultancy. Graduates can work with institutions like Christie's or Sotheby’s, where they can participate in art appraisals, valuations, and sales. With a strong understanding of art market trends and the historical significance of artworks, they can also assist private collectors and institutions in building their art portfolios.

Art Education and Teaching: For graduates who are interested in passing on their knowledge of art to the next generation, a career in education offers an excellent opportunity. Graduates can become art teachers in schools, art colleges, or universities. They may also work as education officers in museums or galleries, developing educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.

Arts Management and Cultural Heritage: The skills gained in the program are well-suited for careers in arts management and cultural heritage. Graduates may take up roles in arts organizations, cultural festivals, and heritage sites. They can work as arts managers, exhibition coordinators, or project managers for art-related events, helping to organize and promote cultural initiatives that involve the visual arts, performance, and public engagement.

Media, Film, and Journalism: The art history component also allows graduates to pursue careers in media, journalism, and publishing. With their critical analysis and research skills, graduates can work as art critics, writers, or editors for art magazines, journals, or websites. They can also work in media roles, including film production, where the artistic direction of films, documentaries, and television series requires a strong understanding of visual culture and history.

Graphic Design and Digital Arts: The program’s emphasis on practical skills and media experimentation makes it an excellent foundation for careers in graphic design, web design, and digital art production. Graduates can apply their artistic knowledge to creating visual designs for brands, advertisements, and digital content across a variety of platforms, including websites, social media, and digital publications.

Freelance and Entrepreneurial Opportunities: With the technical and creative expertise gained through the BA Art and History of Art program, many graduates go on to establish their own businesses or freelance careers. They may offer services such as art direction, curation, design, consultancy, or teaching. Freelancers can work with private clients, businesses, or cultural institutions, providing tailored creative services in a variety of sectors.

Public and Community Art Projects: Graduates with an interest in social engagement may find opportunities in public art, where they can work on large-scale installations or community-based art projects. These projects often aim to bring art to new audiences, create connections between different communities, and address social issues through creative expression.