We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2026/27 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2025/26 courses.
Develop as an artist, refine your own practice, explore new and emerging art forms, and take part in a wide variety of exhibitions and events with our BA Art degree.
This University of Reading four-year programme is designed for students who have A levels or other post-16 qualifications but have not studied a foundation diploma in Art and Design. Beginning with a foundational year, you’ll have the time, focus and resources to explore ideas, take risks and develop expertise in your subject. The University of Reading ranks in the top 100 for Arts and Humanities globally (=91 in QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024) and top 150 for Arts and Design globally (101-150 in QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024).
Under the guidance of our teaching staff at Reading School of Art, you'll have the opportunity to:
The course provides you with the tools to develop, make and present your artwork. It fosters your investigative, critically reflective and independent learning through the study and discussion of contemporary art and its histories. The combination of making and critical reflection enables you to develop and articulate your own creative position.
At Reading, we also offer a three-year BA Fine Art degree. Please contact us if you require advice on which course is most suitable for you.
During your first, foundational year, you’ll explore the processes and practicalities of an artist’s studio while starting to develop an independent project leading to an exhibition. You’ll also be introduced to the field of art history and its study, as well as wider contexts in which contemporary art practices operate.
As your studies progress, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your interests and knowledge. While familiarising yourself with global art discourses and the critiques in which contemporary art is situated, you’ll carry out increasingly independent studio work. With additional time, space and support to further develop, refine, and establish your intellectual and technical skills, you’ll consolidate your interests into independent research and inquiry, preparing for your final year dissertation and comprehensive exhibition.
Our new School of Art building opened in September 2023. It’s the perfect spot for exploring different media in our workshops and exhibiting your work whist being near the centre of our Whiteknights campus. Our facilities feature:
The studios offer a creative, lively and stimulating environment in which to develop your skills with events, workshops to help you explore different media, screenings, performances and exhibitions taking place regularly. You can also explore our student-run gallery and experimental project spaces.
Our staff are actively involved in the arts and highly connected with the creative world beyond the University, meaning you’ll be exposed to a wide range of experience, expertise and career opportunities.
Studying at the Reading School of Art allows you to explore a vast range of media and experiment with emerging art forms.
Over the course of your four years of study, you will:
Regular field trips to national and international museums, art institutions, exhibitions and galleries will give you the chance to consider the diverse conditions in which art is created, displayed and received.
You’ll also gain professional experience by taking part in your own exhibitions, public art commissions and events. Open debate and constructive criticism are actively encouraged, and you’ll learn to confidently discuss your work with peers and teaching staff.
The degree is structured into three parts. Throughout each, you’ll receive training and academic guidance to help you grow as an artist and deepen your expertise. In particular, Parts 2 and 3 allow you to focus on your own individual study path and play to your interests and strengths, as you engage in a choice of complementary modules, a comprehensive exhibition, and a written dissertation.
You may have the opportunity to undertake a placement forming all or part of an optional module.
Past students have:
You may have the chance to experience life in another country and apply to study abroad for a semester during your third year. To see which institutions participate in this scheme please use our “Find a University” tool. Please note our partners may change and the tool is updated each year.
