Aberystwyth University United Kingdom

BA Fine Art / Art History

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the BA Fine Art / Art History at Aberystwyth University, a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed for aspiring artists and critical thinkers passionate about visual culture. This programme addresses the dynamic interplay between artistic creation and historical context, preparing you to navigate and contribute to the contemporary art world. You will develop a sophisticated understanding of art history, from its historical movements to its critical interpretation and display, while honing your practical fine art skills in diverse media. This degree is ideal for those seeking a robust academic foundation and a vibrant creative practice.

You will study this full-time, on-campus degree over three years, engaging with core modules in drawing, painting, and art history, alongside a wide array of optional subjects. Explore areas like book illustration, photography, printmaking, and interdisciplinary practice, with opportunities to curate exhibitions and undertake research projects. The syllabus encourages hands-on learning through access to excellent studio facilities and Aberystwyth University's own accredited museum collection. You will graduate with a Bachelor's degree, equipped with the technical expertise, critical awareness, and professional capabilities to pursue careers as practising artists, art historians, curators, or educators.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of fine art and art history, spanning from foundational drawing and painting techniques to in-depth art historical periods. Students will engage with diverse artistic movements, including the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries, alongside critical examinations of representation, museums, and visual culture. The curriculum progresses through interdisciplinary practice, specialized studio work in painting, photography, and printmaking, and culminates in professional practice and exhibition preparation.

1 YEAR 1

Drawing: Looking, Seeing, Thinking
Painting: Looking, Seeing, Thinking
Looking into Landscape: Reading, Researching, Responding
Pleasure, Power, and Profit: Art in the Long Eighteenth Century
Revolutions & Modernities: Art in the Nineteenth Century
Exploring the School of Art Collections: Research and Museums
Representing the Body

2 YEAR 2

Modernisms: Art in the Early Twentieth Century
Postmodernism and Contemporary Art
Book Illustration 1
Book Illustration 2
Interdisciplinary Practice 3
Interdisciplinary Practice 4
Introduction to Design and Illustration 1
Introduction to Design and Illustration 2
Life Studies 1
Life Studies 2
Painting 1
Painting 2
Painting 3
Painting 4
Photography 1
Photography 2
Photography 3
Photography 4
Printmaking 1: Etching and Relief Printing
Printmaking 2: Etching and Relief Printing
Printmaking 3: Screen printing, Lithography & Hybrid Printing
Printmaking 4: Screen printing, Lithography & Hybrid Printing
Professional Practice for Students of Art
Adaptation: Versions, Revisions and Cultural Renewal
Documentary Photography
Enlightenment and Empire: Museums, Knowledge, and Meaning
The Image Multiplied: European Printmaking since 1400
The Pre-Raphaelites

3 YEAR 3

Adaptation: Versions, Revisions and Cultural Renewal
Curating an Exhibition: Researching, Interpreting and Displaying
Documentary Photography
Enlightenment and Empire: Museums, Knowledge, and Meaning
The Image Multiplied: European Printmaking since 1400
The Pre-Raphaelites
Book Illustration 3
Exhibition 1: Graduation Show
Interdisciplinary Practice 5
Interdisciplinary Practice 6
Life Studies 3
Painting 5 - Paint Directed Practice
Photography 5 - Photo Directed Practice
Printmaking 5 - Print Directed Practice

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

10% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,256.00 USD 25,939.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,939.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,939.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 75,134.00 USD 77,817.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 689.00 - USD 1,322.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Penglais campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationAdvertising & Media SalesAgribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agrochemical & Seed IndustryHigher Education & UniversitiesMedia Production & EditingMuseums & Cultural HeritagePublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySecondary & High School Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

ITV

National Museum Cardiff

National Trust

Why Study BA Fine Art / Art History at Aberystwyth University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Aberystwyth University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Fine Art / Art History at Aberystwyth University

Can I work while studying?

Degree students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for them.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 93 is required, along with specific minimum scores in each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue jobs as artists, art historians, curators, and educators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program allows you to develop skills in painting, drawing, and photography while gaining a deep understanding of art history and visual culture. You will benefit from a well-respected department with a history dating back to 1917.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for the BA Fine Art / Art History program is in September. Make sure to check application deadlines to secure your spot.
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