Ever dreamt of turning your artistic passion into a career? You might be the next Van Goughs! The UK boasts a vibrant art scene, and its universities are renowned for nurturing artistic talent. So, grab your paintbrush because we're about to unveil the 12 best art universities in the UK for 2024! Let's paint a masterpiece of your future, one brushstroke (or click) at a time!
12 Best Art Universities In the UK
We've curated a vibrant palette of the top fine art universities in the UK, each offering a unique blend of courses and artistic inspiration. But before we provide the good art universities in UK, here is a list of the top art and design universities ranking UK according to 2024.
1. Royal College of Art (RCA)
Location: Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2EU, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #1
Notable Alumni: Frank Bowling, Margaret Calvert
The RCA earned the prestigious title of the world's best art and design university according to the 2020 QS World University ranking. It is also one of the hardest art schools to get into UK. It holds a prominent position among the leading art universities in the UK. Successful completion of the program with distinction opens doors for further academic pursuits, including MA or MRes programs tailored to their chosen disciplines.
Courses Offered:
1. MA in Service Design
2. MA in Architecture
3. MA in Animation
4. MA in Design Products
5. MPhil/Ph.D. in Communication
2. University of the Arts London (UAL)
Location: 272 High Holborn, London, Greater London, WC1V 7EY, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #2
Notable Alumni: Bonnie Wright, Florence Welch
The University of the Arts London is ranked as one of the top art universities in the UK. The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) awarded it a silver award. This art university in the UK has nine art and design schools that offer pre-degree, undergraduate, postgraduate, and short courses in 18 subjects.
Courses Offered:
1. BA Culture, Criticism and Curation
2. BA Technical Arts for Theatre and Performance
3. MA in Animation
4. MA in Textile Design
5. MSc in Cosmetic Science
3. The Ruskin School of Art (Oxford University)
Location: 74 High St, Oxford OX1 4BG, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #97
Notable Alumni: Kiera Bennett, Alice Bowe
The Ruskin School of Art is one of the best art universities in the UK . It has a three-year BFA program that focuses on studio-based learning to help students for a career as artists. Upon completing the course, students can pursue careers as art writers, art teachers, and practising artists. It is, in fact, the Department of Fine Art at the University of Oxford and, therefore, a part of Oxford's Humanities Division. Getting into Oxford is a huge accomplishment, and the journey becomes even more rewarding with the opportunity of Oxford scholarships.
Courses Offered:
1. The Ruskin MFA degree
2. The Ruskin BFA degree
3. DPhil
Be it the best colleges for studying art or the best accommodations around them, we have got you covered!
Book through amber today!
VisitUs
4. University College London
Location: Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #49
Average Fees: £9,000 - £25,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: Mahatma Gandhi, Christopher Nolan.
The fantastic Slade School of Art at University College London welcomes talented artists to enhance their skills in painting, sculpture, and various fine arts like film and photography. Being one of the best art universities in the UK, they offer amazing art degrees. Apart from studies, you can also take your time off from the college premises and enjoy quiet self-time or banter with friends at the best cafes in London.
Courses Offered:
1. BA Fine Art
2. BFA Fine Art
3. MA Fine Art
4. MFA Fine Art
5. Glasgow School of Art
Location:167 Renfrew St, Glasgow G3 6RQ, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #11
Average fees: £10,000 - £20,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: Mary Parsons Reid Allan, Joe Allen
The Glasgow School of Art is known as one of the best art universities in the UK as it provides excellent teaching and research, helping students succeed both academically and artistically. They also provide the best art courses in UK where students can apply their skills and bring their artistic ideas to life. However, if you are worried about being in an unknown city, surrounded by new faces, eager to explore but unsure where to start, that's where Glasgow city guide comes to your rescue.
Courses Offered:
1. Environmental Art/Sculpture
2. Painting/Printmaking
3. Photography
4. Design Innovation and Interaction Design
6. Goldsmiths University of London
Location: 8 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #18
Average fees: £12,000 - £18,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: Steve McQueen, Ali Smith
The University of Goldsmiths in London is home to a renowned Department of Art, known for being one of the top art universities in the UK. The supportive and nurturing learning environment at this art schools in the UK enables students to thrive and engage in their studies. The Department of Art offers great courses for the students to find the hidden talents in them.
Courses Offered:
1. BA Fine Art
2. BA Fine Art & History of Art
3. BA Fine Art (Extension Degree)
4. BSc Digital Arts Computing
7. Newcastle University
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #151-200
Average fees: £9,000 - £15,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: Rowan Atkinson, Sir Graham Wylie
Newcastle University's School of Art and Culture is known as one of the best art universities in the UK. They are also famous for offering highly-ranked programs and degrees to the students. It is known as the 2nd best in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2022, the 3rd best by the Complete University Guide 2022, and the 3rd best by the Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.
Courses Offered:
1. Contemporary and Popular Music
2. Film and Media BA Honours, Journalism
3. Media and Culture
8. Loughborough University
Location: Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #27
Average tuition fees: £8,000 - £30,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: Bridget Riley, Lynn Chadwick
Loughborough University's School of Arts, English, and Drama is one of the top art universities in the UK. This UK art university offers a wide range of courses. Its modern, diverse, and inclusive learning environment allows students to showcase their artistic talent and work at various hubs and centres.
Courses Offered:
1. Animation for Health and Wellbeing
2. Drama BA (Hons) degree
3. English and Drama BA (Hons)
4. MSc in Digital Creative Media.
9. Lancaster University
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #51-100
Average tuition fees: £8,000 - £30,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: Ruth Boumphrey, Kath Durrant
This university is one of the best art universities in the UK. In the art program, students learn about various art forms like painting, drawing, digital art, and sculpture. The professors and academics are not just teachers but also active artists with recognised work globally. The university also ensures that the students get top-notch education.
Courses Offered:
1. MA, Arts Management
2. MA, Film Studies
3. MA, Design Management
10. Edinburgh College of Art
Location: 74 Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9DF, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #51-100
Average tuition fees: £13,000 - £30,000/Semester
Notable Alumni: William Andrews, Shehzad Afzal.
Edinburgh University is one of the best art universities in the UK. People from all over the world come to join its community of diverse and active artists. This art school in the UK provide some of the best art degrees in the UK and courses, which include art studio work, personal tutoring, lectures, seminars, and discussions. The college also organises external courses and events with well-known artists from around the world.
Courses Offered:
1. Fine Art – MA (Hons)
2. Intermedia – BA (Hons)
3. Painting – BA (Hons)
4. Sculpture – BA (Hons)
11. Falmouth University
Location: Falmouth Campus, Woodlane, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 4RH
QS Ranking: #151-200
Average tuition fees: £380-£480 (per year)
Notable Alumni: Ben Howard, Neil Harbisson
If you are looking for good art universities in UK, Falmouth can be your top destination! For over 100 years, they have been nurturing creative minds. Imagine creating art alongside inspiring peers, experimenting in a supportive environment, and building connections that last a lifetime! That is what Falmouth is famous for.
Courses Offered:
1. Drawing BA(Hons)
2. Illustration BA(Hons)
3. Sustainable Product Design BA(Hons)
4. Textile Design BA(Hons)
12. Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)
Location: Wallisdown, Poole BH12 5HH
QS Ranking: 801–1000th
Average tuition fees: £8,000 - £9,250 (per year)
Notable Alumni: Nick Park, Danny Boyle
Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is one of the top art schools in the UK. They focus on YOU, with modern facilities, passionate teachers, and a supportive environment to help you become the best artist you can be. Isn't it time to turn your artistic dreams into reality?
Courses Offered:
1. Animation Production BA(Hons)
2. Costume BA(Hons)
3. Curation, Exhibition and Experience Design BA(Hons)
Why Study Art in the UK?
The top art schools in the UK enjoy a long-standing reputation for producing acclaimed artists and designers. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose to study art from the best art universities in the UK!
1. Rich Artistic Heritage: The UK has a storied artistic history, with influential artists, writers, and musicians who have shaped global culture. Studying here allows you to immerse yourself in this rich heritage.
2. World-Class Institutions: The UK boasts top art schools in the UK that consistently rank among the best globally.
3. Industry Connections: Many top art schools in the UK have strong ties to the creative industry. You’ll benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and networking opportunities with professionals in your field.
4. Multicultural Exposure: Studying art in the UK exposes you to a multicultural environment. You’ll interact with students from diverse backgrounds, fostering creativity and broadening your perspective.
5. Access to Museums and Galleries: The UK is home to iconic institutions like the Tate Modern, the British Museum, and the National Gallery. As a student, you’ll have discounted or free access to these cultural treasures.
Eligibility Criteria of the Best Art Universities in the UK
Apart from being very good at expressing themselves through art & having deep knowledge about colour theory, composition, shadow & lights, the top art universities in the UK have some general prerequisites set in line. These are:
1. Academic Qualifications
Most good art universities in UK look for students with a good academic track record. This typically involves meeting the minimum entry requirements based on high school grades or equivalent qualifications.
2. Portfolio
A strong portfolio is crucial for admission to art programs. Your portfolio showcases your artistic skills, creativity, and potential. It should include a variety of your best artwork across different mediums.
3. Personal Statement
Art schools often require a personal statement where you explain your passion for art, your artistic journey, and your goals. Be sure to highlight your motivation, relevant experiences, and what you hope to achieve through your studies.
4. English Language Proficiency Test
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency through an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL. Each university sets its own minimum score requirements.
We hope you liked discovering these awesome schools and the great chances they give to people who want to be artists or designers. So, don't wait! Begin your path to an art career today by applying to one of the best art universities in the UK.
