Course Overview

At Essex, you will acquire a broad foundation in the history of visual culture: both by learning about canonical forms of art and architecture and by discovering what has been overlooked or marginalized, such as medical photography, tattoos, or objects from political protests. You will also develop the skills you need to make exciting new connections between the forms of visual culture you study, developments in other disciplines, and broader social and political forces.

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

You will develop the skills you need to transform your excitement about art, architecture, and visual culture into the ability to uncover new insights about the material you study. You will also develop a solid grounding in the history of art and other forms of visual culture, including the ideas and forces that shaped their production, distribution, and reception.

For students with a particular interest in pursuing careers in curating and museum ship, we also provide modules every year that explore the histories, theories, and practices of museums, exhibitions, and galleries, as well as more nuts-and-bolts issues, such as installing and marketing artwork.

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.