Art and History of Art

Overview

At the University of Reading studying the Art and History of Art you will experience in your first year of this course, at one of the UK's top Art departments gives you a broad art foundation, encouraging you to experiment with a wide range of subjects and media. You can explore casting, welding, printing making and digital and technical media as well as more traditional approaches. 

Modules in "Contemporary art theory" and "History of art" complement your core practical learning. Studying history of art will give you an insight into past societies and the different media they used to express themselves. You will consider painting, sculpture, photography, architecture and the decorative arts across a range of periods.

You will receive your own dedicated studio space, accessible 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. We focus heavily on exhibitions, and regular field trips to national and international museums, art institutions and galleries will give you the chance to consider the diverse conditions in which art is created, displayed and received. 

Throughout this course you will have lots of opportunity to gain professional experience by taking part in your own exhibitions, public art commissions and events. Debate and constructive criticism are actively encouraged and you will openly discuss your work with peers and teaching staff.

After your first year you will be assigned a studio tutor and focus on developing your individual and professional practice, working towards your final project and dissertation in the final year. Placements and collaborations are actively encouraged and there is also the chance to experience life in another country. You can also learn a modern language to complement the study abroad option your third year. Throughout your degree you will receive advice and guidance in career development.

What career can you have?

As well as the practical experience gained on this degree our students graduate with a range of transferable skills, such as self-motivation, time management and strategic thinking. They also have greater self-confidence and become better able to express yourself.

Many of our graduates develop successful careers as artists, writers and curators. These include a number of famous alumni, such as Turner-prize nominated artists, and PhD students who are award-winning artists and curators at influential museums. 

Others have found employment in galleries, education, art therapy and film and video production. Recent employers include Tate, Whitechapel Gallery, The Burlington Magazine, Christies, Microsoft, and the BBC.