Where can I study art and design in the UK?
If you’ve got your eye on a career in art and design, you’ll find more than 1500 art and design
degrees on offer in the UK , at more than 175 universities. With a huge amount of variety in the areas
taught, and world–class teaching and facilities, you won’t struggle to choose a course that will prepare
you for the kind of career you want.
What kinds of specialisms are there?
The UK has one of the most diverse offerings of art and design related courses anywhere in the
world. From conservatoires specialising in classical fine art skills to industry–focused advertising
degrees, you shouldn’t find it hard to locate a course that combines the disciplines you’re most
interested in. Subjects you can choose from include:
• Fine Art
• 3D Design
• Ceramics
• Fashion & Textiles
• Illustration & Animation
• Graphic Design
• Digital Design
• Advertising
• Photography
Whatever degree you choose, you’ll have the chance to refine and tailor your studies as you progress
in the way you want. The flexible, modular format of teaching in the UK means you can select the
modules that you’re most passionate about to help kick–start you on your chosen career path.
What does an art course cover?
The content of each course depends entirely on which degree you choose and the university teaching
it. But most art degrees will provide a consistent range of modules in the first one or two years, before
allowing you to specialise. This will ensure you get a good blend of practical studio practice, historical
and analytical perspectives, professional and business elements and insights into the technological
side of the art world. Modules you would cover on an art degree could include:
• The history of art
• Reflection and analysis
• Art, technology, and the internet
• Studio practice
• Typography
• Professional skills in art and design
• Objects and experiences.
Most UK undergraduate art and design degrees take around three years to complete, with many
offering opportunities for a year’s work experience or study abroad. Postgraduate degrees usually
take between one and two years.
The teaching on offer in the UK is world–class in every respect. You’ll be given expert insights into
every aspect of your chosen field, whether that be photography, fine art or graphic design. Many
teachers are ex–professionals themselves, with a wide range of real–world insights and existing
industry contacts to ensure you feel ready to hit the ground running when you graduate.
Many UK universities also have state–of–the–art equipment, such as 3D printing, so you can hone your
skills on the latest technology – all while receiving the friendly, supportive encouragement you need
to feel confident and relaxed at every stage.
The UK has a unique heritage in art and design, and a creative industry that is now worth £100 billion.
Studying in the UK means following in the footsteps of iconic figures such as Peter Saville and Stella
McCartney, and you’ll have plenty to feast your eyes on at galleries and arts events up and down the
country. 1 in 8 UK businesses are part of the creative industries, and the sector provides two million
jobs – 75 per cent of them outside London.
So whatever aspect of art and design you’re most passionate about, you’ll find the raw inspiration and
professional insights necessary to head off on your chosen career path.
Are there any scholarship opportunities?
A wide range of scholarships and bursaries are available for overseas students across all art and
design courses. These include the ECA Taught Masters Scholarships from the University of
Edinburgh, four master’s opportunities at the Middlesex University London Arts and Creative
Industries Scholarship and a range of fine art scholarships under the Royal College of Art Awards.
You can also apply for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships or if you are from a commonwealth
country you could apply for a Commonwealth Masters Scholarship.
UK graduates are among the most employable in the world, and when you study art and design in the
UK, you’ll be joining a long line of successful graduates who have gone on to exciting roles all over
the world. Whether you want to set up your own art studio, look for full time roles in advertising and
graphic design, or make it big in fashion, you’ll get the best possible start in the UK.
International students who have completed an undergraduate or master’s degree can apply to stay
and work in the UK for two years upon graduation, through the Graduate Route.
To find out more about studying art and design in the UK and to find a course,
