University of Birmingham: History of Art MA

Summary

Pursue your passion for the history of art and prepare for further academic study, or for a career in the cultural industries. On our MA, you’ll develop your knowledge of the history of art and discover expert networks to support your professional development.

The course covers an extensive range of artists, movements and historical periods. You’ll explore the breadth of art history, taught by renowned expert academics who teach in exciting and innovative ways to make sure your studies are engaging and transformative.

Gain practical skills and pitch your own arts sector business ideas on our optional Enterprising Culture module, exploring how arts organisations operate commercially.

The city of Birmingham boasts a dynamic portfolio of established and emerging art galleries and installations, including the internationally acclaimed contemporary art venue Ikon and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, with its world famous Pre-Raphaelite collection.

• Our study options include a British Art pathway plus a wide range of optional modules.

• Become part of a thriving postgraduate community. Contribute to the department’s official blog, The Golovine, and attend regular research seminars.

• Our alumni work for renowned organisations such as the National Portrait Gallery, the National Trust, the Royal Academy, Imperial War Museum and the V&A.

• Take an optional British Art Pathway.

The Department of Art History, Curating and Visual Studies is based in the internationally renowned on-campus art gallery, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, home to masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Kollwitz, and Van Gogh. Additionally, the University of Birmingham and the city have extensive art collections and institutions, including painting, sculpture, posters, photography, and manuscripts.

The galleries of the Barber Institute are currently closed due to essential building works. Teaching will recommence in the galleries from autumn 2027. Until then, we will maintain the object-focused learning that sits at the heart of our programmes by immersing students in the rich collections elsewhere in the university and across the city.

Level	RQF Level 7
Entry requirements	You should have, or expect to get, a 2:1 Honours degree in History of Art. We will also consider a different Humanities or Arts subject, provided you can demonstrate your interest in History of Art. This might be through relevant work experience or studying relevant modules during your Honours degree. We recommend using the personal statement to outline your interest in History of Art and any previous or current experience you have in this area. If you’ve been out of education for several years, we will consider professional references in place of the standard two academic references.
Location	Edgbaston Campus Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TU

Summary

Pursue your passion for the history of art and prepare for further academic study, or for a career in the cultural industries. On our MA, you’ll develop your knowledge of the history of art and discover expert networks to support your professional development.

The course covers an extensive range of artists, movements and historical periods. You’ll explore the breadth of art history, taught by renowned expert academics who teach in exciting and innovative ways to make sure your studies are engaging and transformative.

Gain practical skills on our optional Enterprising Cultures module, exploring how arts organisations operate commercially and pitch your own business ideas in the arts sector.

The course runs over 12 months full-time. You can also study this programme on a part-time basis.

Study in our internationally renowned on-campus art gallery and library, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, home to masterpieces by Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh. You’ll also study in other galleries in Birmingham.

(Please note due to essential building works the Barber Institute of Fine Arts will be closed Spring 2025-Spring 2026).

You’ll discover artistic inspiration across campus, with our art, heritage and sculpture collections, including work by famed sculptor Eduardo Paolozzi.

The city of Birmingham also boasts a dynamic portfolio of established and emerging art galleries and installations, including the internationally acclaimed contemporary art venue Ikon and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, particularly famed for specialising in the Pre-Raphaelites.

• Our study options include a British Art pathway plus a wide range of optional modules.

• Become part of a thriving postgraduate community. Contribute to the department’s official blog, The Golovine, and attend regular research seminars.

• Our alumni work for renowned organisations such as the National Portrait Gallery, the National Trust, the Royal Academy, Imperial War Museum and the V&A.

Level	RQF Level 7
Entry requirements	You should have, or expect to get, a 2:1 Honours degree in History of Art. We will also consider a different Humanities or Arts subject, provided you can demonstrate your interest in History of Art. This might be through relevant work experience or studying relevant modules during your Honours degree. We recommend using the personal statement to outline your interest in History of Art and any previous or current experience you have in this area. If you’ve been out of education for several years, we will consider professional references in place of the standard two academic references.
Location	Edgbaston Campus Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TU