COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Art and History of Art programme at the University of Reading, based at Whiteknights Campus, combines studio-based creative practice with the academic study of global art history from the early 20th century to the present day, offering students a balanced education in making art and critically understanding it. In the first year, students are introduced to contemporary art practices and global art histories through Art Studio modules, while also studying key developments in modern and contemporary art in History of Art 1 and History of Art 2, which explore artistic movements in relation to social, political, and cultural contexts. Drawing is a core skill-building component that develops technical ability and visual analysis, while modules such as Presenting the Past: An Introduction to Museum Studies introduce students to museum practice, ethics, curation, and debates around decolonisation and representation. As the degree progresses into the second year, students deepen both theoretical and practical skills through advanced studio practice and optional modules such as Art Practice specialisms, History of Art 3 and 4, and museum-focused modules like Museum Learning and Engagement and Curatorship and Collection Management, alongside opportunities for International Study in major European art centres. In the third year, students refine their independent artistic identity through Art Studio 2b and more advanced History of Art modules (5 and 6), which encourage critical engagement with contemporary art debates and develop strong analytical and research abilities. The final year culminates in a major Art Studio 3b project alongside a History of Art dissertation, allowing students to produce both a substantial creative portfolio and a critical academic study grounded in independent research. Throughout the programme, students develop practical artistic skills, theoretical knowledge, curatorial understanding, and critical thinking abilities, preparing them for careers in fine art, curation, galleries, museums, arts administration, education, and wider creative industries, supported by Reading’s strong reputation in art education and its emphasis on combining creative practice with academic excellence.