Course Overview

In a hyper-visual world increasingly dominated by ever-evolving forms of media, being able to understand and analyze the history and operations of visual and media cultures has never been more essential.

At Essex, you will explore a broad spectrum of art, visual culture, and media, both past and present. You’ll learn about canonical forms of art and architecture and cover a range of visual cultures, such as video art, medical photography, tattoos, and objects from political protests. You’ll also study the various forms of contemporary media that shape our everyday lives, including film and television, photography, social media, and advertising.

To study our course, you don’t need an A-Level in art or art history. In fact, we believe that the best students of visual culture are those who bring fresh eyes and new perspectives to their objects of inquiry.

What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to cover a range of disciplines through your modules during which you will combine different approaches to the study of visual media, hone your critical thinking and develop a deeper understanding of the histories and meaning of the visual world around you. You will develop the skills you need to transform your passion for art, visual culture, and media into the ability to uncover new insights about the material you study.

General Eligibility

UK entry requirements

A-levels: ABB

BTEC: DDD

IB: 32 points or three Higher Level certificates with 655.

We are also happy to consider a combination of separate IB Diploma Programmes at both Higher and Standard Levels. Exact offer levels will vary depending on the range of subjects being taken at higher and standard levels, and the course applied for. Please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.

Access to HE Diploma: 15 level 3 credits at Distinction and 30 level 3 credits at Merit

International & EU entry requirements

We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. Get in touch with any questions you may have about the qualifications we accept. Remember to tell us about the qualifications you have already completed or are currently taking.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours per week.

Language Requirement

• If you do not require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK then we will assess your English language proficiency/ability at your interview or audition.

  If your first language is not English and you are an international student that requires a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK then you will need IELTS 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.