Fine Art (Hons) Birmingham City University

Overview

The BA (Hons) Fine Art course at Birmingham City University is structured around four essential principles: Making Skills, Making Public, Making Communities, and Making a Living. These principles guide students in developing their artistic practice while equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in the evolving creative landscape.

Why Fine Art at Birmingham City University?

Birmingham City University is renowned for its strong emphasis on practice-based learning and has a diverse student body of over 31,000 from more than 100 countries. The Fine Art programme benefits from the university's historical significance, being housed in the first municipal art school in the UK, located in a Grade I-listed building. This rich heritage fosters a creative environment where students can engage with a vibrant community of artists and practitioners. The programme also boasts strong connections with local galleries and art institutions, providing students with unique opportunities for collaboration and exposure.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the BA (Hons) Fine Art programme are as follows:

• National students: £9,535 per year
• International students: £18,570 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The course is designed to provide a comprehensive education in Fine Art through a blend of theoretical and practical modules. Key modules include:

• Making Studio: Focuses on developing technical skills in various artistic mediums.
• Making Meaning: Encourages students to create individual project briefs based on personal interests.
• Making Public: Explores the relationship between art and its audience, including public exhibitions.
• Making a Living: Prepares students for professional careers in the arts by developing a portfolio of skills.

In the second year, students engage in more independent projects while collaborating with external partners. The final year culminates in a public exhibition, showcasing students' work and providing a platform for future career opportunities.

Industry Demand

The Fine Art programme prepares graduates for a variety of roles within the creative industries, which are continually evolving. With a focus on employability, the course integrates professional practice skills throughout its curriculum, ensuring that students are well-equipped to enter the job market upon graduation.

Careers with Fine Art

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Fine Art programme have found success in diverse roles, including:

• Exhibition Manager
• Gallery Education Coordinator
• Professional Artist
• Curator
• Arts Administrator
• Community Arts Worker

Many alumni have gone on to work with prestigious organisations such as the BBC and Tate, demonstrating the programme's effectiveness in preparing students for impactful careers in the arts.