Explore Your Creative Side: University Art Degrees

what to study in university as an art student

Art is a diverse and dynamic field of study that offers a multitude of specialisations for aspiring students. From the University of the Arts London, which encourages students to question the very nature of art, to the practical training and historical study of performing arts at Tongji University, the options are vast. Art students can explore their passions in design, fine arts, curation, art history, or performing arts, to name a few. Each of these pathways offers a unique blend of creative expression, technical skills, and theoretical knowledge. Before embarking on this colourful journey, it is essential to consider the entry requirements, which may include prior qualifications, portfolios, interviews, and financial planning.

Characteristics Values
Passion and creativity Essential
Basic art skills Helpful
Portfolio Required by most art programs
Educational background Required by most art programs
Interview Required by some competitive programs
Standardized tests Considered by some programs
Financial considerations Essential
Theoretical and historical study Common
Studio practice Common

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Art history

The Glasgow School of Art, ranked highly in art and design, offers a similar program where students learn about the evolution of art forms and have industry links to renowned institutions such as the National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Students at New York's Pratt Institute can also major in a number of specialisms, including fine arts, where they learn about social, historical, and critical issues in contemporary art through lectures and seminars.

A performing arts degree is another option, providing practical training and academic study into the history and cultural place of performance within society. For example, Tongji University College of Arts and Media offers a performance major with professional training in realistic drama and film, while Universität der Künste Berlin provides programs in musical theatre, theatre education, dance and choreography, and opera.

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Art theory

The study of art theory can also be a degree in itself, such as the MFA in Curating offered by Goldsmiths, University of London, which explores the social, political, and philosophical elements of art curation, as well as aesthetics. The Istituto Marangoni in Italy offers a unique master's programme combining art curation and fashion, exploring the history of dress and the evolution of curation.

Art history is a key aspect of art theory, and there are many dedicated art history degrees. For example, the Department of Art History at Tsinghua University in China offers majors in design art and art studies, with minors including Chinese and foreign art history, Buddhism art research, and art archaeology. The Glasgow School of Art, ranked 13th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject: Art and Design, teaches students how paintings, sculptures, buildings, and design have evolved to look the way they do today.

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Art techniques

Art courses also incorporate theoretical and historical studies to broaden students' understanding of different artistic styles and techniques. For instance, the University of the Arts London and New York's Pratt Institute offer insights into social, historical, and critical issues in contemporary art. Similarly, the Department of Art History at Tsinghua University in China delves into art history with majors in design art and art studies, covering topics such as foreign art history, art archaeology, and calligraphy history.

When it comes to specific art techniques, universities often provide instruction in a variety of mediums. These may include traditional techniques such as drawing, painting, sculpting, and calligraphy, as well as modern approaches like digital art and graphics. Some institutions, like Tongji University College of Arts and Media, focus on performance art, offering professional training in realistic drama and film. Other universities, such as Goldsmiths, University of London, explore the interdisciplinary field of curatorial practice, examining the social, political, and philosophical aspects of art curation.

In addition to these techniques, art students are often encouraged to develop their unique style and passion. This may involve exploring different forms of art, studying influential artists, and gaining inspiration from various sources. Building a portfolio of work is also essential for art students, as it showcases their technical skills, creativity, and understanding of the subject matter.

Overall, art techniques taught at the university level aim to provide a well-rounded artistic education, fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and a deep understanding of the historical and theoretical context of art.

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Art careers

Art is a diverse and wide-ranging subject that can lead to many different career paths. Studying art at university can help you develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the arts. Here are some potential art careers to consider:

  • Fine arts: This path includes careers such as painting, sculpting, and photography. These traditional art forms are often taught in university art programs, providing students with the skills and knowledge to create and exhibit their work. Fine artists can work as independent artists, exhibiting and selling their work, or they may work on commission for galleries, museums, or private clients.
  • Curatorial practices: Curating involves the management and presentation of art collections in museums, galleries, or other cultural institutions. Curators may also be involved in art restoration and conservation, as well as the research and interpretation of artistic and cultural artifacts. Curatorial studies often include the exploration of social, political, and philosophical elements of art, such as the MFA in Curating offered by Goldsmiths, University of London.
  • Art history: Art historians study the history of art, architecture, and design, analyzing the social, cultural, and economic contexts that influenced the creation of artistic works. Art history graduates can pursue careers in academia, museums, or cultural heritage organizations. For example, The Glasgow School of Art offers a degree in the History of Art, where students benefit from industry links to institutions such as the National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
  • Performing arts: Performing arts degrees provide practical training in areas such as drama, film, dance, and musical theatre. Graduates may pursue careers as actors, dancers, or musicians, or they may work behind the scenes in areas such as stage management, directing, or choreography. Universität der Künste Berlin, ranked 35th in the QS World University Rankings for this subject, offers programmes in musical theatre, theatre education, dance, and opera.
  • Design: Design-focused art degrees can lead to careers in areas such as fashion design, graphic design, product design, or interior design. These courses often provide a more specialized vocational path, preparing students for specific careers in the design industry. The University of the Arts London, ranked second in the QS World University Rankings for Art and Design, offers students a range of pathways, including 2D, 3D, 4D, and XD, where discovery and experimentation are encouraged.
  • Creative industries: Studying art can also lead to careers in the broader creative industries, where skills such as creativity, innovation, and visual communication are highly sought after. Art graduates may find work in areas such as marketing, advertising, game design, or illustration, where they can apply their artistic skills and knowledge in a commercial context.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of careers that an art student can pursue. Developing a strong portfolio, gaining practical experience, and networking within the art world can all help to increase your chances of success in the chosen field.

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Art portfolios

The exact requirements of art portfolios vary depending on the institution and programme. Some universities and colleges may consider the portfolio as part of their admission criteria, while others may have specific requirements for the portfolio's content. It is important for applicants to research the expectations of their chosen institution thoroughly.

In addition to the visual components, an art portfolio may also include a written component. This could be in the form of an artist's statement or an essay that outlines the applicant's interest in art, their career goals, and their reasons for applying to that particular institution. This written component allows applicants to provide context for their artwork and express their unique perspective and understanding of the subject.

For those applying to specialised art programmes, such as curatorial practice or design art, the portfolio requirements may be more specific. For example, a curatorial programme may focus on the social, political, philosophical, and aesthetic elements of art curation, so applicants should consider including relevant work in their portfolios. Overall, the art portfolio is a crucial aspect of the application process, allowing institutions to assess the applicant's artistic skills, passion, and potential for growth within their programme.

Frequently asked questions

Most art programs require a high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate courses. Some institutions may also consider your portfolio as part of their admission criteria. It is also recommended to have some basic art skills, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or digital art.

Your portfolio should showcase your best work and highlight your creativity and passion for art. It should demonstrate your interest in the subject and can include a variety of art forms such as drawing, painting, pen & ink, graphics, and digital art.

Art courses often include theoretical and historical study to build an understanding of the history of art and its influence on society. You will also develop technical skills and have the opportunity to experiment with different art forms. Some courses may focus on specific vocations or specialisms, such as curating, design, or performing arts.

An art degree can lead to a variety of careers in the creative industries, including fine arts, curation, design, and performing arts. You can also explore fields such as gaming, where game illustrators create visual assets for interactive media.

There are many renowned universities for art and design, including the University of the Arts London (UAL), Goldsmiths, University of London, and the Glasgow School of Art. These institutions offer diverse programmes and specialisations, encouraging experimentation and providing industry links.

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