MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Art History (with a professional placement year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Art History (with a Professional Placement Year) program at the University of Sussex offers students a unique opportunity to explore the history, theory, and cultural significance of art across various periods and regions, with the added benefit of a professional placement year. This program provides a comprehensive foundation in art history, blending academic study with practical work experience. Students gain in-depth knowledge of visual culture, art movements, and the role of art in society, while developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills. The professional placement year allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings, enhancing employability and providing valuable insights into the art industry.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Art History (with a Professional Placement Year) curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of art history while focusing on key periods, styles, and movements. In the first year, students are introduced to the fundamentals of art history, covering topics such as the history of Western art, visual culture, and the theoretical frameworks used to interpret artworks. In subsequent years, the program offers specialized modules that explore specific art movements, such as Renaissance art, modernism, and contemporary art, as well as non-Western art traditions. The curriculum also emphasizes the development of critical skills in visual analysis, research, and academic writing. The placement year, typically taken between the second and final year, offers students the chance to work with art institutions, galleries, museums, or cultural organizations, providing practical experience that complements their academic studies.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex has a strong research focus in art history, and the program benefits from the university's active engagement with contemporary art research. Students have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research projects in areas such as museum studies, digital art, the history of visual media, and the global history of art. Faculty members at Sussex are involved in a range of research areas, including the intersection of art with politics, gender, and identity, as well as the role of art in social change. This research-driven approach ensures that students are exposed to the latest debates and developments in the field. The program also encourages students to undertake independent research, helping them develop the skills necessary for postgraduate study or careers in the arts.
Industry Engagement: One of the standout features of the BA (Hons) Art History (with a Professional Placement Year) program is the professional placement year, which provides students with hands-on experience in the art industry. The University of Sussex has strong connections with a range of cultural institutions, including galleries, museums, auction houses, and art foundations, offering students the chance to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. Placement opportunities are tailored to students' interests, whether in curatorial work, art conservation, education, or gallery management. Additionally, the university hosts events such as guest lectures, workshops, and networking opportunities with industry professionals, further enhancing students' understanding of the art world and expanding their professional networks.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Art History (with a Professional Placement Year) program at Sussex offers a global perspective on art, ensuring that students are exposed to a wide range of art traditions from different cultures and regions. The curriculum includes the study of both Western and non-Western art, allowing students to understand the diversity of artistic practices across the world. The university's international focus is also reflected in its diverse student body, which brings a variety of cultural perspectives to discussions on art and its impact on society. Moreover, the global nature of the art market and the increasing interconnectedness of cultural institutions worldwide are integrated into the program, preparing students for careers in the international art world.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23175
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% 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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) Art History (with a Professional Placement Year) program at the University of Sussex offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical experience, preparing students for a wide range of careers in the arts, culture, and heritage sectors. With its comprehensive curriculum that covers the history, theory, and cultural significance of art, along with the added benefit of a professional placement year, graduates are well-equipped to enter various industries within the creative sector.
Curator: Curators are responsible for managing collections of artwork, artifacts, and exhibits in galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. With their deep understanding of art history, graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program can pursue careers as curators, where they will work on selecting, preserving, and interpreting artworks for public display. They may specialize in a particular art period, medium, or region, and often play an integral role in organizing exhibitions and educational programs.
Museum and Gallery Manager: Museum and gallery managers oversee the day-to-day operations of art institutions, ensuring that collections are properly cared for, exhibitions are curated, and visitors have a positive experience. Graduates with a professional placement year gain valuable practical experience that prepares them for management roles in museums and galleries. These positions involve coordinating events, managing budgets, and liaising with artists, collectors, and other stakeholders in the art world.
Art Conservationist: Art conservationists specialize in the preservation and restoration of artworks to ensure they remain intact for future generations. This role requires a deep understanding of materials, techniques, and the history of art, alongside practical conservation skills. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program, particularly those with a focus on art conservation, can work in museums, galleries, or private collections, helping to repair and maintain artwork damaged by age or environmental factors.
Art Auction Specialist: Art auction houses, such as Sotheby's and Christie's, require specialists who can assess the value and historical significance of art pieces. Graduates of the program can pursue careers in art auctions, where they can use their expertise in art history to evaluate, appraise, and auction works of art. This career path involves working closely with collectors, galleries, and museums, and can be an exciting option for those interested in the financial aspects of the art market.
Art Educator: Art educators teach art history at various educational levels, including schools, colleges, and universities. Graduates with a passion for art and education can pursue teaching roles, sharing their knowledge of art movements, history, and theory with the next generation of students. With a BA (Hons) Art History degree, graduates are well-qualified to teach both practical and theoretical aspects of art history, and can also engage in educational programs in museums and galleries.
Art Journalist or Critic: Art journalists and critics write about art exhibitions, trends, and the art market, providing insightful analysis and commentary on various aspects of the art world. Graduates of the program with strong writing and communication skills can pursue careers as art critics, writing for magazines, newspapers, or online platforms. This role involves attending exhibitions, analyzing art, and sharing opinions on the cultural significance of artworks and their creators.
Cultural Heritage Officer: Cultural heritage officers are responsible for preserving and promoting a region’s cultural heritage, often working with historical landmarks, monuments, and artworks. This role involves researching the cultural significance of sites, organizing public education programs, and managing heritage projects. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program can work with government agencies, non-profits, or international organizations to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
Art Event Coordinator: Art event coordinators plan and manage art exhibitions, auctions, festivals, and other cultural events. Graduates with experience from the professional placement year can work as event coordinators, organizing exhibitions and engaging with artists, collectors, and art lovers. This role requires strong organizational, communication, and project management skills, as well as an understanding of the art world.
Art Marketing and Public Relations: Art marketing and public relations professionals promote artists, galleries, and exhibitions through various marketing channels. This role involves working closely with artists, galleries, museums, and auction houses to develop promotional campaigns, engage with the public, and build brand awareness. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program with a flair for marketing and communication can enter the world of art PR, helping to create awareness and interest in cultural and artistic initiatives.
Art Consultant: Art consultants assist private collectors, corporations, and institutions in building and managing art collections. This role requires a deep knowledge of art history, as well as an understanding of the art market and the ability to source and evaluate artworks. Art consultants also advise on the display and preservation of art collections, and may specialize in a particular area of art, such as contemporary, modern, or classical art.
