Fine Art Degrees
Fine art is the branch of art and design that incorporates any type of art created for their aesthetic, imaginative and intellectual content. Generally the product serves no practical purpose, and is admired solely for how it looks. Most courses will be studio based, giving you the opportunity to work in a productive environment. Fine art encourages students to find their own style and work in their chosen medium, progressing their expertise and honing their skills.
About Fine Art
Accreditation
The accreditation of your degree will depend on the institution you choose to study at. It will also be influenced by your level of study. At undergraduate level, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Arts, or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA).
Duration
Generally, an undergraduate degree will take three to four years to complete, depending on where you choose to study.
Your institution may offer part-time study options, which usually means that your degree will take four to six years. You may also be able to take a foundation programme, which is useful if you do not meet the entry requirements for your degree.
Fees
Annual tuition fees for UK students are capped by the UK government. For the 2019/20 academic year, they are £9,250. This is subject to change each year, and will be updated on your institution website.
Depending on where you choose to study, there may be additional fees to pay for your art supplies and field trips. This will normally be detailed in the fees and funding section of your institution’s webpage.
The fees displayed below are an example of typical annual tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate fine art degrees. Actual tuition fees can be found on the institution webpages.
Typical Annual Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate - £9,250
Topics Covered
Undergraduate
An undergraduate degree in fine art will give you a foundation of knowledge in the area. You might study modules on painting, drawing, contemporary art, art history, visual arts, concepts and practices, art practice and presentation, sight and sound, and framing your practice. The vast majority of fine art courses will be designed to suit those that do not have a vast amount of practice in the area, as well as challenging those who have already had a chance to develop their skills. Your degree will be delivered through lectures and tutorials, incorporating practical sessions and field trips to art galleries and exhibitions. Depending on your course, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. Assessment methods could include practical work, presentations and a final major project.
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for a fine art degree will depend on where you choose to study. It will also depend on the level of study for which you are applying. An undergraduate degree will require you to have a background in art or design. Some universities might accept other creative arts subjects like drama or expressive arts. You will be required to submit a portfolio of your creative work as part of your application. If you do not have a strong background in these areas, but can prove that you are passionate about the subject, some universities might still consider your application. This could be displayed through your personal statement or an interview.
Typical Entry Requirements
Undergraduate
- A Level Grades - AAB-BBB
- UCAS Points - 136-120 UCAS points
- Required/Desired Subjects - Art, Drama, Theatre Studies, Expressive Arts,
- Other Entry Requirements - some institutions may ask you to provide a portfolio as part of your application
Career Prospects
Graduates of fine art will find that there are many career opportunities available to them. Art offers you a chance to develop a wide range of skills, making you versatile in different areas. If you choose to work in a role directly related to fine art, jobs might include becoming an artist, an art administrator, photographer, photojournalist, art curator, and a teacher or tutor. If you choose to work in a role not directly related to fine art, jobs could include a counselling or therapy, business management, or a graphic design.
