Studying the history of art is like a journey through time, giving insights into human creativity, cultural evolution, and the timeless dialogue between artists and society.
The study of the history of art unveils human creativity and expression. It also promotes critical analytical skills, an understanding of cultural contexts, and a deep appreciation for visual storytelling.
Studying the history of art opens up many career opportunities like art curation, museum management, art conservation, education, art, and cultural consultancy. The ability to interpret visual pieces is valuable in sectors where creativity, cultural understanding, and a discerning eye are essential.
The impact you could make
- Contribute to the preservation and conservation of artistic and cultural heritage for future generations.
- Take part in academic research, expanding knowledge in art history.
- Promote cultural awareness and community development.
What you could study
- Museums and society
- Making and meaning in architecture
- Reading art history
- Making and meaning in western art
- Modern British art
- Art and the environment
Chat to a current history of art student
Chat to a current history of art student using UniBuddy.
Some conversation starters for you:
- Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
- Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
- Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
- Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
- Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
Chat to students powered by 
Example module
“My two favourite areas are Renaissance art and technological advances such as within architecture and perspective, and the early stages of modernism, leading with the impressionists into controversial avant-gardes such as the Dada movement."
Second year history of art student, University of Edinburgh
Example project
"My favourite project was an essay about post-fascism era art. I love how eclectic the course is."
Second year history of art and curating student, University of York
75% of students
studying history of art would recommend the subject to others
(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)
Art
History
Humanities
Hard skills you'll develop
- Comparative art analysis
- Visual analysis
- Historical knowledge
- Museum and gallery practices
Soft skills you'll develop
- Attention to detail
- Creativity
- Flexibility
- Curiosity and open-mindedness
Available jobs
77,383 vacancies in the past year
7.22% growth over next eight years
Average salary
£31,338
Up to £56,282
What is a… cultural heritage manager?
Cultural heritage managers work on the preservation, promotion, and management of cultural heritage sites. They have the responsibility for safeguarding historical and artistic legacies, ensuring that these sites remain not only intact but also accessible to current and future generations. From ancient landmarks to traditional art forms, they find the balance between conservation efforts and sustainable tourism, creating a connection between communities and their cultural heritage.
Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study history if art at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from history of art applicants.
A levels
ABB
Scottish Highers
AABBB
Vocational
BTEC DMM
Other subjects you may be interested in
- Archaeology
- Art
- Digital media, production, and technology
- Graphic design
- History
- Photography
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The Art of the Steal
A documentary looking at the Barnes Foundation art collection and its controversial move to Philadelphia. -
TED Talks – Art History
Observe our modern times through the lens of art history with these compelling, masterful talks. -
Keep up-to-date
Keep up-to-date with the latest exhibitions across the UK on the Royal Society of British Artists website.
Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
- Emphasise your curiosity and open-mindedness to exploring artistic traditions, cultures, and historical periods with a genuine interest in learning.
- Showcase your analytical and critical thinking skills, giving examples of how you’ve approached the analysis of artworks or historical contexts.
- Shout about your genuine passion for art and its historical context, discussing specific artworks, movements, or periods that have inspired you.
- Emphasise your cultural awareness and appreciation, showing an understanding of the importance of cultural contexts in interpreting artworks.
- Mention any personal artistic projects, whether it's creating art, participating in art-related groups, or engaging with artistic communities.
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