CultureFix.
British art is steeped in history, though it is the depth and reputation of the contemporary art scene in the UK that draws art students from all over the world. This page is dedicated to providing US students with the information and tools they need to learn about British educational opportunities in the arts.
Studying arts in Britain involves various paths at all levels of education, so you're sure to find something specific to your interests. Below, three educational gateways - Foundation, Undergraduate and Graduate - will guide you to important information about the education system, choosing a university, applying, funding, visas and student life at these varying levels of study.
Additionally, information organized by arts discipline will help you understand how your subject is studied in the UK, and what resources are available to learn more.
Emily Turner, Writtle College. Image Credit: Scott Suchman David D'Agostino, York St John College. Image Credit: Scott Suchman © Guzelian
FOUNDATION
Many art students participate on a one-year foundation course after high school, which gives students the chance to identify a specialist area of art and build up a strong portfolio.
UNDERGRADUATE
There are a variety of courses for art students at the undergraduate level - those at universities, and those at specialized colleges or institutes.
GRADUATE
At the graduate level, both taught and research degrees are offered in performing and visual arts, as well as teacher training in these subjects.
ART AND DESIGN
Thousands of visual art and design courses await your application, but first read through our guidance notes on
how the subject is studied in the UK and the British Council Arts Group
resources for art and design students.
ARCHITECTURE
Architectural study in the UK has a special structure that combines academic coursework and professional experience. Read more about
how the subject is studied in our guidance notes. The British Council Arts Group also provides various
resources for Architecture students.
DANCE
From the studios of the Royal Ballet to breakdancing on the streets, dance is a force to be reckoned with in the UK. Read through our guidance notes on
how the subject is studied in the UK, and check out the variety of organizational
resources compiled for you by the British Council Arts Group.
FASHION
The UK has long been recognized as a leading fashion center, and its institutions at the forefront of innovative design education. If you want to take your project down the runway, read through our guidance notes on
how the subject is studied in the UK.
FILM
Students in Britain are filming the stories of tomorrow today at film schools around the UK. Check out the education and training
resources of Britfilms, the British Council's hub for contemporary British film.
INTERIOR DESIGN
There's a reason why the TLC tv show
Trading Spaces has British origins; Interior Design in the UK is a serious business, with its own professional association of more than forty years.
LITERATURE & CREATIVE WRITING
If you're a literature fanatic, an aspiring creative writer or poet, the UK has courses that will hone your skills. Degree tracks, workshop dates and conferences are just some of the
resources published by the British Council Art Group for students like you.
MUSIC
The UK's reputation for classical and contemporary performance and composition combined with its innovative programs in production and music-technology make it an obvious choice for students around the world. Read through our guidance notes on
how the subject is studied, and browse the
resources compiled by the British Council Arts Group.
THEATER
Acting, directing, stage management, screen writing, make-up - it's all covered in the UK's educational offerings in theater. Start your research by reading through our guidance notes about
how the subject is studied in the UK, and browse the British Council Arts Group
resources for prospective drama students.
