History of Art

History of Art at Bristol is taught by experts recognised internationally for innovative research. Interests include medieval painting, sculpture and material culture, post-Soviet cultural developments, contemporary diasporic art, modernism, and Neue Sachlichkeit and the culture of the Weimar Republic. The broad chronological, geographical and thematic range of these research interests feed directly into our teaching, which places a unique emphasis on progression through a wide choice of research-oriented units.

History of Art courses

Single honours

BA History of Art (V350)

Joint honours

Why study History of Art at Bristol?

At Bristol we offer an exciting new syllabus that offers you the opportunity to develop and extend your interests in History of Art across a broad spectrum of subjects and approaches, and through a variety of teaching formats. Our syllabus is specifically research-oriented and enables you to conduct independent research in all three years.

You also have the opportunity to study Joint Honours History of Art with a modern language. You will be expected to spend longer periods of time on independent study as the course progresses. In the final year you will produce a substantial piece of original research. You will be allocated a personal tutor who will follow your progress and give you advice throughout your time in Bristol.

What kind of student would this course suit?

This course suits students who enjoy doing research and want the chance to study art history across a wide range of periods and places.

How is this course taught and assessed?

This course is taught through a number of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars and group projects. Types of assessment are also varied, and include essays, dissertations, presentations and projects, as well as written exams at the end of the year.

What are my career prospects?

Our graduates are much sought after and find employment not just in museums and art galleries, art and antique businesses, fine art publishing, arts administration, teaching and related fields, but in other areas including the managerial, administrative, media, and financial sectors. Bristol History of Art graduates have an excellent track record of employment, proving that the transferable skills gained during your History of Art degree are rated highly by employers.