Fine Art Practice

This new degree embraces a full range of disciplines, reflecting the diversity of studio-based creativity and critical thinking essential to Fine Art practice today.
The course is subject to validation with our first students planned for September 2026.

Whether you work with physical materials or prefer a more conceptual approach, we’ll encourage you to experiment with a wide range of materials, methods, and processes, such as drawing, painting, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, printmaking, illustration, photography, installation, performance, digital technology.

We plan to provide maximum flexibility by offering full-time and part-time study options across all years of the course.

About the course

The course includes studio practice and critical studies, with studio work expected to account for 75% of marks in each year.

Years 1 and 2: - In Semester 1 - thematic project briefs are designed to develop your understanding of the rudiments of Fine Art Practice.
In Semester 2 you’ll work on self- negotiated project briefs.
Year 3: - Specialist Studio Practice and Advanced Studio Practice modules.

End of year exhibitions showcase studio practice with graduating students also hosting a Final Degree show at an external venue. Museum and gallery visits provide the basis for primary research in art history, cultural studies, and curatorial practice.

Studio Practice:

Studio Practice lies at the core of the degree. Throughout the 3 years you will work across modules to focus on:

-using different materials, media and processes
-developing your work by exploring new ideas and themes
-learning from the work and practice of contemporary and historical artists
-critically reviewing your own work
-understanding how materials and media communicate ideas to an audience
-following the creative process: research, experiment, develop, present
-exploring exhibition practice and curation
-applying for funding, grants and awards
-professional practice, marketing and self-branding

Critical Studies:

-introducing art history and critical thinking
-learning how to reflect on your own work
-understanding how to curate and present art
-support with academic writing and research
-exhibiting in traditional, non-traditional and online spaces
-engaging with the work and ideas of guest speakers

Assessment

Assessment is based entirely on coursework, with no exams. Your progress will be measured through the projects and assignments in each module. Throughout the year, you’ll receive ongoing feedback to help improve your work and develop your skills.

Course Team and Facilities

Our team of dedicated tutors are highly qualified, experienced educators and active creatives with national and international profiles and excellence in their own practice and research. We also have specialist technicians and purpose-built workshop facilities to aid your development and progression.

The degree will be based at the Adams Campus, a Victorian heritage building in the "Lace Market" Creative Quarter of the City Centre. Purpose-built accommodation features seminar rooms and top-floor studios with amazing natural daylight. We are proud to offer each student their own personal workspace.

Bursaries

We want our course to be open to students from all backgrounds, so we offer generous non-repayable bursaries to help. Check our website for details.

Qualification

Level 6 Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Fine Art Practice – subject to validation.

Your career and progression

The creative industries offer many career options with an increasing proportion of our graduates freelancing and setting up their own small businesses, locally and online. Some choose to venture into other sectors and are equally successful in gaining employment due to the range of transferable skills acquired.
Others continue with their studies with postgraduate degrees or teacher training, with more than 40% progressing to postgraduate MAs.