Roehampton University
Open Spaces. Open Minds.
Undergraduate study
Art History
Overview
This programme is not available for 2010 entry.
- Roehampton is close to all the major national art collections in London, such as:
- Single Honours students have the option of museum or gallery work placements and modules in photographic practice and theory.
- You have the opportunity to study abroad as part of your degree.
Studying Art History will help you to develop a wide range of analytical, visual and critical skills. You will benefit from study visits to world-famous galleries and museums that are on our doorstep in London. This programme will help to prepare you for a range of creative careers in the art world, from gallery or museum curatorship, to teaching and consultancy work.
News
Research Assessment Exercise 2008
100% of Roehampton University’s work in History was recognised either internationally or nationally, with 35% of that work regarded as being either "world-leading" or "internationally excellent". More information.
In detail
For a complete description of this programme's aims, learning outcomes and the programme outline, see the full programme details.
For a complete list of this programme's modules and a detailed description of each of them, see the full module details.
Entry requirements
- Offers are typically based in the range of 240–320 points from A-levels (Ancient History, Economic History, Classical History or English desirable), vocational A-levels, or equivalent, including the 14–19 Diploma.
Our offers are not solely based on academic results: we also take your skills, achievements and life experience into consideration.
For further information refer to our general entry requirements page, which includes a tariff table. If you need advice on entry requirements or applications, please contact our Enquiries Office on 020 8392 3232.
Year-by-year summary
First year
Introductory classes focus on methods and approaches to art history as well as visual analysis. You will learn about Renaissance and Baroque art and architecture in Italy, France, Spain and the Netherlands. Optional modules include photography, classical civilisation, philosophy, history and aesthetics.
Second year
You will study the development of modern art as well as consider trends in contemporary visual culture. In addition, you will have the option of a museum or gallery placement (Single Honours only).
Third year
You will complete a museum studies module called Cultures of Display, and write a dissertation on a topic chosen in consultation with your tutor. You will also study Women and Visual Culture in Early Renaissance Italy, Fin-de-Siècle Art and Society, and a selection of other modules on western and non-western art.
Sample modules
- Late Medieval and Early Renaissance Art in Italy
- Art and Architecture in the 17th Century
- Modernity and Modern Art
- British Art and Architecture
Teaching methods
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
Assessment methods
- Coursework (research, evidence of weekly background reading, gallery and museum visits, essays, course files and dissertations)
- In-class tests
Typical timetable
Students typically have 8–10 hours of lectures a week and are expected to spend an additional minimum 10 hours a week in self-study.
Example assignments
- Choose a painting from a collection in greater London and explain how the artist used composition, form and colour to emphasise meaning in this work.
- Compare and contrast two art objects in a London collection. Your discussion must deal with subject matter and style. Take into account cultural, social and political factors to explain the representational strategies employed in these art works.
Recommended reading
- Acton, M. (2005) Learning to Look at Paintings, London & New York: Routledge
- Arnold, D. (2004) Art History: A Very Short Introduction, Oxford: University Press
- Laneyrie-Dagen, N. (2004) How to read Paintings, Chambers Art Library
- Johnson, G.A. (2005) Renaissance Art. A Very Short Introduction, Oxford: University Press
- Paoletti, J.T. & G. M. Radke (2005) Art in Renaissance Italy, London: Laurence King
Facilities
On-campus
The University Library offers an excellent range of resources for the study of Art History.
Art History uses a range of lecture theatres and seminar rooms including purpose-built accommodation in Southlands College and at Mount Clare.
Off-campus
Roehampton has long-standing links with the National Art Library at the Victoria and Albert Museum and regularly uses the resources available at other galleries and museums including:
Student perspectives
Quotes from current students
"I found the modules that I took really interesting and there is good variety of subjects covered. I also liked the opportunities available to do study projects focused on artists and works of art that I have a particular interest in."
"I enjoyed the Art History Study Abroad trip to Florence because it allowed us to get to know each other better and gave us the opportunity to see what we were studying in our lectures first-hand."
Career prospects
Art History enables students to evaluate critically and present their research and ideas clearly in writing. The discipline also encourages the development of transferable skills, particularly organisational and IT skills. Career opportunities exist in:
- gallery and museum work (including educational services)
- arts administration
- teaching (following diploma and postgraduate study).
Subject area
Related programmes
Undergraduate
Postgraduate
Staff
- Dr Aislinn Loconte, Senior Lecturer, Programme Convener
- Paul Newland, Senior Lecturer
- Dr Mark Riley, Lecturer
- Dr Sabine Wieber, Lecturer
We are close to excellent resources such as the National Gallery.
Entry tariff: 240–320 points
UCAS code: V350
Single or Combined Honours
View combinations
Duration (years):
3 (full-time), 4–7 (part-time)
Tuition fees (per year):
£3,290 (UK/EU)
£9,599 (international)
Contact: Enquiries Office
Tel: 020 8392 3232
Email: enquiries@roehampton.ac.uk
