Why History of Art?
Art History is a dynamic and lively subject. It combines the rigour of a history degree with visual skills and the ability to look at and interpret works of art. It will help you develop critical skills in how to look, to think and to present your ideas succinctly and persuasively that are essential in today’s job market. Watch Courtauld academics discuss why art history matters.
Why The Courtauld?
As an institute dedicated to Art History, Conservation and Curating, with one of the major art collections in the UK at its heart, The Courtauld brings together all aspects of the visual world in one centre. We have the largest faculty of art historians in the country, who are working on an increasingly global scale, from the Americas to Europe, from North Africa and the Middle East to Iran to China.
We study, research and teach about art in all forms and all media, from the smallest, most personal painting or object to the design and evolution of whole cities; from medieval cathedrals, mosques and temples, to contemporary fashion, photography and performance art.

Key Facts
- UCAS application status: Open
- UCAS Code: V350
- Location: Vernon Square Kings Cross, London WC1X 9EP (during The Courtauld Connects project)
- Awarding Body: University of London
- Intake: c.80 students
- Duration: 3 years (full-time)
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Course Overview
The History of Art degree at The Courtauld introduces students to a wide range of visual art from the ancient period up to the present day. Through a mixture of lectures, seminars, discussion groups and study trips, you will have the opportunity to experience an exciting range of approaches to art from around the world. Our objects of study include buildings, paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, performance and installation art, fashion history, design and more. Alongside specialist courses taught by world-leading experts in the field, the degree also introduces you to theoretical and critical approaches to works of art throughout the three years.
We also make the most out of London’s art and architecture, as well as The Courtauld’s own world-leading art collection (which will reopen in 2021 after a major redevelopment of Somerset House). A hallmark of The Courtauld degree is the small size of our classes, and friendly, informal environment where everyone is studying either the History of Art, curating, or the conservation of the work of art. You’ll also have the opportunity to study a language, and apply for dedicated funds to travel and see works of art you are studying.
Courtauld students come from all kinds of backgrounds, and most are studying the History of Art for the first time. History of Art is a broad, exciting humanities degree that prepares students for many, diverse career routes, and our students have gone on to a range of careers both within the cultural and heritage industries, the art world and beyond.