COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA in Art History, Museums and Galleries offers a rich and dynamic journey through the study of art, visual culture, and the institutions that present and preserve them. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational themes and methods in art history through close visual analysis, direct engagement with artworks, and critical exploration of museums and their roles in society. Modules such as “Learning on Site” allow for hands-on study of world art collections at the Sainsbury Centre, while others like “Portraiture and Identity” and “Environment, Art and Culture” help students consider how visual culture reflects and shapes social, political, and personal identities. As students progress into the second year, they begin to explore more complex interdisciplinary questions, such as the cultural biographies of objects and the impact of contemporary art practices on museum spaces. Through modules like “The Lives of Objects” and “Art in the Contemporary World,” they refine their analytical skills and deepen their understanding of how art interacts with broader cultural, historical, and ethical concerns. In the third year, students expand their horizons further with a year abroad at a partner university, gaining fresh perspectives on art history through global experience and academic exchange. This opportunity not only enhances academic development but also builds confidence, adaptability, and international connections. In the final year, students choose from a wide range of optional modules that allow them to specialise in topics they are most passionate about—from decolonisation and identity to sustainability and memory. Alongside this, they undertake an independent dissertation project under the guidance of expert faculty, developing original research and critical thinking. This degree equips students with both a deep knowledge of visual culture and the practical and intellectual tools to shape the future of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.