UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
History of Art BA
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS V350
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€37k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 3 yearsDuration
- Full-timeStudy Mode
- London, BloomsburyLocation
- Object-based learningLearning Approach
- Access to London's major museums and galleriesResources
- Optional specialisation in Materials and TechnologyRoute Option
This three-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in the History of Art offers an immersive study of visual arts and material culture from the Middle Ages to the present day, with a global perspective. The program emphasizes object-based learning and critical thinking, encouraging you to develop a unique way of seeing and understanding the world. You will gain in-depth knowledge and understanding of art history, drawing on London's rich cultural resources, including museums, galleries, libraries, and architecture. There is also an option to specialize in the History of Art, Materials and Technology (MAT) route, which focuses on understanding works of art as physical objects. This route explores artists' techniques, making processes, and the science and technology behind materials, preparing you for careers in areas like art dealing, conservation, or museum work. UCL's central London location provides unparalleled access to major institutions like the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The program benefits from high-quality research by faculty members, who are specialists in various art historical periods and regions, including modern and contemporary art and the history of materials and technologies. You will experience small class sizes and receive detailed feedback on assignments.
Curriculum
The program is structured across three academic years, with modules normally valued at 15 or 30 credits, totaling 120 credits per year. Assessment occurs within the academic year of study. Students on the standard BA History of Art will pursue a subsidiary subject, while those on the MAT route will focus on technical aspects of art.
- Year 1
- History of Art and its Objects
- Survey modules on key monuments and central issues in art history
- Thematic Seminar module (museum/gallery/site-based)
- Subsidiary subject module (Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or Philosophy)
- Modern foreign language module
- Modules on science, materials, media and technologies (MAT route only)
- Year 2
- Advanced Lecture modules (in-depth study of art history themes)
- Optional Period Modules (specific periods and topics)
- Departmental modules (analytical skills)
- Subsidiary subject module (continued)
- Modules on technical aspects of art making, conservation, and analysis (MAT route only)
- Year 3
- 10,000-word dissertation
- Optional modules (within and outside the department)
- Final year placement module (MAT route only, optional)
Careers
This degree is highly relevant to careers in the cultural and heritage industries, as well as academia. The program equips students with analytical skills, critical thinking, and knowledge of art history, making them suitable for a variety of professional paths.
- Art dealers
- Art conservators
- Museum professionals
- Gallery professionals
- Academics/Researchers
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students for the History of Art BA program?
- The tuition fees for international students are £32,000 per year for the 2026/27 academic year.
- How long is the History of Art BA program?
- The program is a full-time, three-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the History of Art BA program?
- For A-levels, the requirement is AAB, with essay-based subjects being advantageous. For the IB Diploma, you need 36 points overall with specific scores in higher-level subjects.
- Is there an English language requirement for this program?
- Yes, a Level 2 English language proficiency is required. Specific test scores should be referred to on UCL's English Language Requirements page.
- How do I apply for the History of Art BA program as an international student?
- International students apply through UCL's central admissions process, typically via the UCAS system, by the specified deadline.
- What are the career prospects after completing the History of Art BA?
- This degree is relevant for careers in the cultural and heritage industries, including roles such as art dealers, conservators, museum and gallery professionals, and academics.
Entry requirements
A-levelsAAB. No specific subjects required, but essay-based subjects are advantageous. At least two A-levels should be from UCL's list of preferred subjects.
IB Diploma36 points overall, with 17 points in three higher-level subjects, and no higher-level score below 5.
Access to HE DiplomaPass with a minimum of 30 credits at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit from Level 3 units.
BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaDistinction, Distinction, Distinction.
Cambridge Pre-U Principal SubjectsD3,D3,M1 in three Principal Subjects.
Scottish Advanced HighersAAB (or AA at Advanced Higher and BBB at Higher).
Level 2 English language proficiencyRequired (specific test scores not listed, refer to UCL's English Language Requirements page)
Contextual offers are available (e.g., ABC A-levels, 32 IB Diploma). GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4 are required for all applicants. International students whose qualifications do not meet direct entry requirements may be eligible for UCL's Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates (UPC).
Fees
Tuition (international)£32,000 per year (2026/27)
Tuition (home)£9,790 per year (2026/27)
Living—
Tuition fees are for the 2026/27 academic year. Fee schedules provide details for each program. International students are advised to check for specific country-related requirements and potential funding opportunities.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsReview the academic and English language requirements specific to your country and the History of Art BA program. Visit the International Students website for country-specific information.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary documents including academic transcripts, certificates, personal statement, and English language test results if applicable.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the UCAS system by the specified deadline. You can apply for a maximum of two taught graduate courses per application cycle.
4. Attend Interviews/Tests (if required)Some programs may require interviews or additional assessments. Be prepared for these if requested.
5. Await DecisionUCL will review your application and notify you of the outcome.
6. Accept Offer and Prepare for VisaIf offered a place, formally accept the offer. Begin the process of applying for a UK Student Route visa.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students for the History of Art BA program?
+
The tuition fees for international students are £32,000 per year for the 2026/27 academic year.
How long is the History of Art BA program?
+
The program is a full-time, three-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
What are the academic entry requirements for the History of Art BA program?
+
For A-levels, the requirement is AAB, with essay-based subjects being advantageous. For the IB Diploma, you need 36 points overall with specific scores in higher-level subjects.
Is there an English language requirement for this program?
+
Yes, a Level 2 English language proficiency is required. Specific test scores should be referred to on UCL's English Language Requirements page.
How do I apply for the History of Art BA program as an international student?
+
International students apply through UCL's central admissions process, typically via the UCAS system, by the specified deadline.
What are the career prospects after completing the History of Art BA?
+
This degree is relevant for careers in the cultural and heritage industries, including roles such as art dealers, conservators, museum and gallery professionals, and academics.