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
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Art History program at the University of Sussex provides a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the history, theory, and critical analysis of visual art across different periods and cultures. This program explores how art reflects, challenges, and shapes social, political, and cultural environments. Students examine key art movements, iconic artists, and significant works of art, while developing analytical and interpretive skills that can be applied across a wide range of professional fields. The program’s interdisciplinary approach integrates historical, cultural, and theoretical perspectives, encouraging students to understand the broader context in which art has evolved and to explore art's ongoing relevance in contemporary society.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Art History curriculum at the University of Sussex is designed to provide a thorough grounding in the history of art, while also allowing students to explore specialized topics in-depth. The program begins with foundational modules that cover the major movements in Western art history, such as Classical, Medieval, Renaissance, Modern, and Contemporary Art. As students progress, they can choose from a range of optional modules, allowing them to specialize in areas such as global art history, visual culture, post-colonial perspectives, gender and art, or contemporary art theory. The curriculum also incorporates practical elements, such as museum and gallery visits, which provide students with the opportunity to engage directly with art collections and exhibitions. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to think critically and develop their own interpretations of visual culture, honing their research, writing, and communication skills.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Art History program at the University of Sussex places a strong emphasis on research-driven teaching. Faculty members are actively engaged in cutting-edge research, and students are encouraged to explore a variety of topics that intersect with art, culture, and history. Research areas within the department include the study of historical and contemporary art, visual culture, the history of architecture, art theory, and the intersection of art with gender, race, and politics. The program encourages students to critically engage with a diverse range of art forms, examining not just Western art but also global and non-Western traditions. Students have the opportunity to conduct their own independent research projects, developing a deeper understanding of their chosen topics and contributing to ongoing academic debates in the field of art history.
Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Art History program at Sussex offers various opportunities for industry engagement, helping students build practical experience and professional networks in the art world. The program maintains strong links with museums, galleries, auction houses, and cultural institutions, providing students with access to work placements, internships, and volunteer opportunities. These opportunities allow students to gain firsthand experience in the art industry, whether in curatorial roles, gallery management, art conservation, or arts administration. In addition to these placements, the University of Sussex regularly hosts guest lectures, workshops, and seminars with professionals from the art world, offering students insights into the latest trends, practices, and career paths in the art sector. The program’s location near Brighton, a vibrant hub for the arts, further enhances these opportunities by providing access to a range of local galleries, art festivals, and cultural events.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Art History program at the University of Sussex offers a global perspective on the history and practice of art, encouraging students to explore a wide range of artistic traditions from across the world. While the program covers the core movements of Western art history, it also offers modules that focus on art from non-Western cultures, global art practices, and post-colonial perspectives. The emphasis on global art history allows students to examine the connections between art, culture, and identity on an international scale, recognizing the significance of art in shaping and reflecting global histories and contemporary issues. Sussex’s diverse student body and its international collaborations further enrich students' experiences, enabling them to engage with multiple cultural perspectives and preparing them for careers in a globalized 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.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program at the University of Sussex are well-equipped to pursue a variety of careers within the arts, culture, and creative industries. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, which blends historical analysis, theoretical study, and practical experience, prepares students to engage with a wide range of professions in the art world.
Curator: Curators play a central role in the art world, managing collections, organizing exhibitions, and preserving artworks in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. Graduates with a background in art history are well-suited for curatorial positions, where they are responsible for the acquisition, research, and exhibition of artworks. Their knowledge of art movements, history, and theory allows them to create engaging and informative exhibitions that resonate with audiences. Curators also engage with artists, researchers, and collectors to enhance the cultural value and academic relevance of exhibitions and collections.
Museum/Gallery Assistant: Museum and gallery assistants provide vital support in the daily operations of museums and art galleries. Their responsibilities include helping with exhibitions, guiding visitors, managing collections, and providing administrative support. This role is an excellent entry point for those looking to build a career in the museum and gallery sector. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program, with their knowledge of art history and visual culture, can contribute to the curation and management of exhibitions and help create educational materials for visitors.
Art Auction Specialist: Art auction houses such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s require specialists to assess, appraise, and sell artworks at auction. Graduates with an art history background can become art auction specialists, using their expertise to evaluate the value of artworks and facilitate the sale process. In addition to conducting valuations, these professionals may work directly with clients, advising them on purchasing and selling art, and contributing to the marketing of auction events. Their deep understanding of the art market and art history positions them to make informed decisions about the value and significance of artworks.
Art Conservationist/Restorer: Art conservators and restorers specialize in preserving and restoring artworks, ensuring that they remain intact for future generations. This career requires a detailed knowledge of materials, techniques, and the historical context of artworks. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program can pursue careers in this field, working with museums, galleries, and private collectors to repair, restore, and maintain artworks. This role involves both technical skills and historical knowledge to ensure that works of art retain their integrity while maintaining their historical significance.
Art Educator/Art History Lecturer: Graduates with a passion for teaching can pursue careers as art educators, teaching at primary and secondary schools, colleges, or universities. They may also become lecturers in art history, sharing their knowledge of visual culture, historical art movements, and theoretical approaches to the study of art. Art history educators may work in both formal educational settings or in informal learning environments, such as community outreach programs, art centers, and workshops. Some graduates may also design educational resources and curricula to enhance the public’s understanding of art history.
Arts Administrator: Arts administrators play a key role in managing arts organizations, events, and projects. They are responsible for budgeting, event planning, fundraising, marketing, and overseeing the general operations of museums, galleries, art festivals, and cultural institutions. Graduates with an art history background can pursue arts administration roles in institutions such as art galleries, theaters, film festivals, and community arts organizations. Their understanding of art history and culture makes them well-suited to managing projects and programs that promote the arts to the public.
Art Critic or Journalist: Art critics and journalists write about art, providing commentary, analysis, and reviews of exhibitions, galleries, and cultural events. With strong writing skills and a deep knowledge of art history, graduates can work for art magazines, newspapers, online publications, or television programs. Art critics often write reviews of new exhibitions, films, or art events, offering insightful perspectives on the cultural and artistic significance of the work. This role combines creative analysis with critical thinking and an ability to engage a wide audience in the world of art.
Gallery Manager: Gallery managers oversee the daily operations of art galleries, ensuring the smooth running of exhibitions, events, and gallery services. This role includes organizing exhibitions, managing staff, liaising with artists, handling sales, and marketing exhibitions to attract visitors. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program are well-prepared for gallery management roles, as they bring their knowledge of art history and curatorial practices to ensure that exhibitions are not only visually engaging but also historically and culturally informative.
Arts Marketing and Public Relations Specialist: In this role, graduates can work for museums, galleries, theaters, or cultural organizations, creating marketing strategies and campaigns to promote exhibitions and events. They are responsible for reaching out to potential visitors, engaging with the public through social media, and organizing press releases and promotional material. A background in art history provides an in-depth understanding of how to market and communicate the cultural and intellectual value of art exhibitions effectively to a wide audience.
Cultural Heritage Consultant: Cultural heritage consultants work with governmental organizations, museums, and private institutions to preserve and manage cultural heritage sites and objects. They may also assist with the restoration of historical landmarks and artworks, ensuring that cultural artifacts are protected and understood. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Art History program, with their knowledge of historical and contemporary art, are well-positioned for roles in cultural heritage management, providing expertise in the historical context and significance of the works or sites in question.
Exhibition Designer: Exhibition designers are responsible for creating the layout, aesthetics, and atmosphere of art exhibitions. They work with curators to ensure that the display of artworks is visually appealing and accessible to a diverse audience. Graduates with a deep understanding of art and design principles can pursue careers in exhibition design, ensuring that exhibitions convey the artistic and historical narratives effectively through spatial design, lighting, and display.
