History of Art Undergraduate study 2016

Transcription

1 For general undergraduate enquiries contact: The Enquiry Centre t: +44 (0) e: w: History of Art Undergraduate study 2016

2 Contents Welcome to the Department of History of Art 3 Welcome 4 Why study history of art at Nottingham? 8 Degree courses 16 How will I study? 18 How will I be assessed? 20 Study abroad 22 Career and employment prospects 25 Postgraduate opportunities 26 Student profile 28 Staff research interests 29 Graduate profile 30 Your student experience 34 Applying for a place 37 Frequently asked questions 38 Visiting and contacting us Front cover image: Nottingham Lakeside Arts puts on a varied programme of exhibitions throughout the year, such as the Pop Art to Brit Art exhibition seen here. Thank you for your interest in studying history of art at The University of Nottingham. This brochure is designed to provide you with information about the and the courses we offer. Located in the University s Humanities Building on University Park Campus, the Department of History of Art is a stimulating place to study. University Park offers excellent facilities and is also home to the prestigious Djanogly Art Gallery, which hosts a continuous programme of temporary exhibitions. The department has an excellent reputation for both teaching and research, and our undergraduate degree courses are designed to enable you to achieve a high degree of visual literacy, as well as an awareness of the cultural and historical environment in which visual arts are produced. Our diverse group of staff deliver a wide range of modules from the Renaissance to the present day and we offer joint honours degrees with archaeology, English and history. This brochure includes information on what and how we teach, what we look for in an applicant and what it s like to be a student here. We have also included some information on the career opportunities which will be open to you when you have completed your degree course. If we have not answered all your questions, please contact us using the details on page 38 of this brochure or visit the departmental website: Good luck with your studies and your applications, wherever you choose to study. Nicholas Alfrey Head of the University of Nottingham Art nottsarthistory.wordpress.com Don t forget to watch our videos to hear from staff and students from across the Faculty of Arts: Students in the Djanogly Art Gallery, University Park Campus. 2 3

3 Why study history of art at Nottingham? Students catching up between lectures outside the Trent Building on University Park Campus. The has an energetic and distinguished group of academic staff whose specialist interests cover themes and issues in visual history from the Renaissance to the present day. Our undergraduate courses look at wide-ranging aspects of the visual arts including painting, sculpture, the graphic arts, photography and other visual media, as well as museum history and the relationship between high art and popular visual culture. An international reputation The department is renowned internationally for teaching, research and curating exhibitions. This is in part due to our link with the University s Djanogly Art Gallery, which will give you access to acclaimed exhibitions such as Lowry: Paintings and Drawings ( ); Pop Art to Britart ( ); And Now it s Dark: American Night Photography (2014); and In the Shadow of War ( ). You will be taught by staff who curate exhibitions at national institutions including Tate Britain, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of Wales and the National Gallery of Scotland. We consider the link between teaching and research to be extremely important and all our staff deliver courses that are informed by their research. You can find more details about our staff and their research on our departmental website: Academic excellence In the latest National Student Survey, the department scored 97% for overall satisfaction and 100% for staff enthusiasm. The teaching excellence of staff in the Department of History of Art has also been recognised by a number of University awards. A commitment to academic excellence drives everything we do and has earned us international recognition. It is evident in our research as well as our teaching. Our scores in the latest Research Excellence Framework rank us in the top 10 in the UK for world-leading research originality and rigour. Adaptable courses We offer a flexible programme with an emphasis on student choice, allowing you to specialise in areas of personal interest. Our degrees include a limited number of core compulsory modules, beyond which you are free to choose from our wide variety of modules on art and visual culture from the Renaissance to the present day. Great career prospects Crop Up Gallery We are proud to be one of the few history of art departments in the country with its own student-run curatorial group. Crop Up Gallery offers its members the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience in a competitive field and to build links with the thriving arts community in Nottingham and the East Midlands. As its name suggests, Crop Up Gallery takes up temporary residence at established exhibition spaces in the city and beyond. Crop Up Gallery welcomes new members each year, giving them the opportunity to gain experience in areas such as: curatorship, design, fundraising, leadership, marketing and promotions and networking. Follow Crop Up Gallery on Twitter to hear about their latest Crop Up has allowed me to understand how I can transfer the skills from my degree into something more vocational and learn a lot about working in professional creative environments in the process. I have worked alongside students from different year groups, engaged with local arts communities and been mentored by industry professionals. The experience of being involved with Crop Up Galleryhas gone far beyond my expectations of how it would enhance my degree and future prospects. Beth Sillince BA History of Art (third year) Director of Crop Up Gallery 4 5

4 Arts professional placements Our new Arts Professional Placement module allows second-year students to enhance their employability and develop professional skills as part of their degree. Students take a series of on-campus workshops followed by an eight-week professional placement at a local arts institution, such as New Art Exchange, Nottingham Contemporary, and Derby QUAD. Internships and volunteering There are a variety of opportunities for our students to gain experience in the arts alongside their academic studies. In recent years, history of art students have collaborated with a wide range of Nottingham s cultural institutions, including: Backlit Gallery Crocus Gallery Djanogly Art Gallery LeftLion magazine New Art Exchange Nottingham Contemporary Nottingham Visual Arts magazine Primary Surface Gallery Syson Gallery World Event Young Artists A lively on-campus arts scene History of art students enjoy a wide range of visual arts facilities on campus. Nottingham Lakeside Arts Nottingham Lakeside Arts is the University s public arts centre. Located at the South Entrance of University Park Campus, it comprises the Djanogly Art Gallery, the Djanogly Recital Hall, the DH Lawrence Pavilion, and The University of Nottingham Museum. Lakeside hosts a varied programme of music, dance, theatre and visual arts, making it one of the region s most popular arts venues. History of art students have gained valuable experience working with the gallery, front of house and education teams. For more information see Facilities and resources Digital Humanities Centre The Digital Humanities Centre (DHC) is a facility for research and learning, located in the Humanities Building. It provides an innovative workspace in which staff and students can explore and work on digital media to make their research cutting edge. For more information, details on available equipment and for links to the DHC Facebook and Twitter pages, visit the webpage at Working at the Digital Humanities Centre has taught me how diverse history of art can be. I have invented my own illustration to help construct arguments and explored the historical archive of slides. It has also allowed me to see other projects flourish from all different degree courses and levels. I have worked with students from across the humanities and it has only furthered my interest and ideas. Emma Hardiman BA History of Art (second year) Library and computing services The main library for history of art is the Hallward Library, located at a central site on University Park Campus. To find out about the wide range of facilities and resources on offer go to Manuscripts and Special Collections archive A place of specific relevance to history of art students is the Manuscripts and Special Collections, which holds an impressive collection of printed manuscripts and archive collections. These provide an opportunity to use rare primary sources in your studies. Dedicated, expert staff are on hand to offer guidance and support: manuscriptsandspecialcollections Student-run societies and services Other opportunities to get involved in the arts include the student-run Art History Society, which organises visits to exhibitions and other sites of interest. You can also join Nottingham Student Television (NSTV), University Radio Nottingham (URN), the Nottingham New Theatre and Impact magazine. For more information, see A supportive community The department offers a very supportive environment with a number of initiatives designed to ensure you always have someone to talk to should you need help or guidance. Personal tutor system Our personal tutor system is well established and offers opportunities for one-to-one tutorials. You will be assigned to a personal tutor who will monitor your academic progress, act as a first point of contact for personal matters and offer guidance should you encounter any difficulties with your studies. Peer Mentoring Scheme We see student mentoring as a key initiative in enhancing and enriching the Nottingham student experience. The Peer Mentoring Scheme was founded to help new students settle into university life and to feel at home more quickly. Student mentors are carefully trained second and third-year students who provide a first point of contact for new undergraduates. The scheme enables mentors to share their skills and knowledge in order to help first-year students make the most of studying history of art at Nottingham. The scheme encourages new students to appreciate the opportunities open to them throughout their time at university; intellectually, socially and in terms of future employability. All first-year students are given the opportunity to join the Peer Mentoring Scheme. There are some issues that fall in between what your friends can help you with and what you want to ask a lecturer who you have never met before the Peer Mentoring Scheme fills those gaps wonderfully. Thanks to my mentor, on my third day at Nottingham I already knew everything there was to know about the library, the online portal and how to make the most of my seminars. Costanza Bergo BA History of Art (first year) Learning Community Forum The Learning Community Forum enables students to take an active lead in determining departmental priorities. Each year group within the has two or three student representatives who liaise with staff and students. The job of the representatives is to identify student ideas and concerns and to bring these to the forum, which meets twice per semester. Members of academic and administrative staff also attend the meetings to ensure that student voices are heard. The department considers all suggestions made in the forum and we implement those that are the most beneficial. Some of our most rewarding student innovations include our Peer Mentoring Scheme and Crop Up Gallery. 6 7

5 School Department of Law of History of Art Degree courses Degree title Single honours BA History of Art Joint honours BA Archaeology and History of Art BA History and History of Art BA History of Art and English UCAS code V350 VV43 VV31 QV33 Duration 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years A levels AAB* ABB-BBB AAB; usually including A in history AAB; including A in English IB ; 6 in history at Higher Level 34; 6 in English at Higher Level * Including no more than two A levels from art and design, design and technology, drama and theatre studies, film studies, fine art, photography and textiles. Places Modular degrees Almost all undergraduate degree programmes in the University are modular, which means you undertake modules of study with assessment at the end of each semester. Under the modular system, you will normally be required to take modules totalling 60 credits in each semester. To graduate with a degree from The University of Nottingham you must take 360 credits of modules 120 in each year of study. Each module is usually worth 10 or 20 credits the higher the number of credits, the greater the amount of work on the module. The first year is a qualifying year; your degree classification will be determined by the work completed in your second and final years. Single honours degrees In your three years at Nottingham you will take a combination of compulsory and optional modules, mainly from those offered by the Department of History of Art but also including some optional modules from outside the department, particularly in your first year. For example, you may choose to take modules in classics, history or philosophy. Alternatively, you might wish to continue studying a language learned at school or college, or begin an entirely new language. A full list of optional modules will be available at registration each year. Joint honours degrees A joint honours degree is split evenly between your two subjects, so the history of art half of your degree is normally made up of 60 credits each year (although regulations for some joint honours courses allow a 50/70 split each year to accommodate your module choices). You will take two core and two optional modules in history of art in your first year and choose from a wide range of modules to make up your history of art credits in the remaining years. If you are considering applying for a joint honours course, you should also look for information from the other school or department involved on our online prospectus: Dissertation In your final year you might choose to replace one or two of your scheduled modules with a dissertation on a subject that particularly interests you. Some students carry out further work on a topic or artist introduced in a module they ve studied previously; others write on a new topic agreed after discussion with tutors. The dissertation option is particularly good if you plan to undertake postgraduate study, as it will give you experience of the self-motivation and discipline required to carry out a relatively large project. If there is something you ve always wanted to write about, it might end up being your dissertation topic. 8 9

6 School Department of Law of History of Art Single honours BA History of Art The course covers wide-ranging aspects of the visual arts including painting, sculpture, the graphic arts, photography, film and other visual media, as well as museum history and the relationship between high art and visual culture. Each semester, the department offers a wide range of modules covering topics from the Renaissance to the present day. Year one You will be introduced to the issues and methods used in the discipline through core introductory history of art modules. These are concerned with key issues and methods relating to the study of history of art and the interpretation of artworks, drawing upon examples from the 15th to the 21st centuries. You will elaborate on the issues raised in these modules as you progress through your degree. You will also choose four optional modules in history of art and up to four optional modules outside of the department. Year two Year two includes a compulsory study trip abroad, accompanied by tutors, to a centre of art production in Europe. This trip is linked to the writing of an independent study project. For more information on studying abroad, see page 20. You will also choose three or four optional modules in history of art and up to one module outside of the department. Year three In this year you may do a dissertation (worth 20 credits in the autumn or spring semester or 40 credits over both semesters), giving you the opportunity to explore areas of particular personal interest. You will also choose from a range of optional modules within the department and up to one module outside of history of art. Not many people can say they know their university tutors on a first name basis but at Nottingham the history of art lecturers make it their mission to be a big part of your university experience. The personal tutor system has been the best part of my academic experience because I have always felt like there is someone there to support me. Typical modules Year one Core modules: Introduction to Art History I Introduction to Art History II Art and Power: Paris 1937 Art and Society in Fifteenth-Century Venice Art in America, Art, Politics, and Protest in America Buying and Selling Art in the Eighteenth Century Courts and Princes in Renaissance Italy, Inventing French Art: from the Renaissance to Louis XIV Matisse, Picasso, Duchamp Modern Painting before Modernism in 19th-Century Europe Modernism and America Painting America: Plural Arts Histories Year two Core module: International Study Art and National Identity in the 19th Century Art and Reform in Renaissance Germany Art at the Tudor Courts, Arts Professional Placement British Romantic Art European Avant-Garde Film From the Bastille to the Eiffel Tower: A Cultural and Architectural History of Paris Futurism Los Angeles Art and Architecture, Photographing America Realism and Impressionism, Venetian Renaissance Art: The Age of Bellini, Visualising the Body Women in the Italian Renaissance, Year three American Visual Cultures Dissertation Fascism, Spectacle and Display Images of the City: Renaissance Venice and its Visual Identity, c Jacques-Louis David: Art and Politics in the Age of Revolution Landscape in Britain since 1800 Mobility and the Making of Modern Art, Performance Art Photography in the Nineteenth Century Renaissance Luxuries: Art and Good Living in Italy, Rome Museum City Surrealism and its Legacies Work and Play in Modern European Art For more detailed module information, please visit the individual course listings at Grace Mitchell BA History of Art 10 11

7 Joint honours BA Archaeology and History of Art This course offers the opportunity to explore the ways in which material culture and art are studied. You will explore the theory, methods and practice of archaeology and a range of archaeological periods and themes, while at the same time examining aspects of art history and theory. Field work and trips are also part of the course. It is compulsory for you to gain excavation or other relevant professional experience in the UK and/or overseas. Year one You will be provided with a grounding in both archaeology and history of art, including modules on the archaeology of the prehistoric, Roman and medieval periods. In history of art, you will take two core modules, Introduction to Art History I and II. These modules are concerned with key issues and methods relating to the study of art history and the interpretation of artworks, drawing upon examples Typical modules Year one Core modules: Forests to Farmers: Prehistoric Archaeology of Britain Introduction to Art History I Introduction to Art History II Rome to Revolution: Historical Archaeology of Britain Understanding the Past Introduction to Archaeology Two of the year-one optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. Year two Core modules: Archaeological Research: Theory and Practice Two optional modules in archaeology at level two. Plus three of the year-two optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. from the Renaissance to the present day. You will also take two optional modules of your choice. Year two In addition to the core modules in archaeology (IT and Research Methods, Reconstructing Ancient Technologies, and Archaeological Theory), you will select more advanced optional modules in both subjects. In history of art you will take three optional modules, choosing from topics covering the 15th to the 21st centuries. Year three You will have a choice of advanced modules in both subjects and the opportunity to write a dissertation under the supervision of a tutor in either archaeology or history of art. For more information about the archaeology element of your course, please see Year three Core modules: Dissertation in archaeology Or An independent research project in archaeology Depending on your choice of dissertation: Up to four year-three optional modules in archaeology Up to three of the year-three optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art For more detailed module information, please visit the individual course listings at BA History and History of Art This degree will broaden your intellectual horizons and teach you to think critically about art, the media, and the past. In history, you will explore aspects of the past from 500CE to the present and from countries around the world. In history of art, you will be taught to approach works of art from a critical viewpoint and study media from a variety of historical periods and different geographical areas. Year one The history core is Learning History, a skill and methodology-based module. The emphasis is on reflecting on the nature of history as a discipline and developing the skills required for the writing and debating of history. In history of art, you will take two core modules, Introduction to Art History I and II. These modules are concerned with key issues and methods relating to the study of art history and the interpretation of artworks, drawing upon examples from the Renaissance to the present day. You will also take a selection of optional modules in both disciplines. Typical modules Year one Core modules: Introduction to Art History I Introduction to Art History II Learning History Interpreting Ancient History Introduction to the Medieval World, From Reformation to Revolution: An Introduction to Early Modern History, c Roads to Modernity: An Introduction to Modern History, Plus two of the year-one optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. Year two Core modules: The Contemporary World since 1945 Communities, Crime and Punishment in England, c Medieval Apocolyptic Thought Plague, Famine and Flood Race, Rights and Propaganda: The Politics of Race and Identity in the Cold War Era, Soviet State and Society, The Venetian Republic, c Plus three of the year-two optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. Year two The core module in history is The Contemporary World since The focus of this is not just on global developments (political and economic, social and cultural, environmental and demographic) but also on exploring key historical debates concerning the immediate origins of the world in which we now live. This module sits alongside other more specific optional modules in both history and history of art, covering a wide chronological and geographical range. Year three In history, you will select a Special Subject and one optional module. The Special Subject is a yearlong, in-depth and research-based seminar that all history students must take. In history of art you will have the option to complete a dissertation providing an opportunity for extended independent study under the supervision of a tutor, and you can take a combination of further optional modules. For more information about the history element of your course, please see Year three Special Subjects include: Crime, Morality and Law in Modern Britain Suez and the End of Empire The Black Death World Wasting Itself in Blood : Europe and The Thirty Years War Britain on Film Kings, Saints and Monsters in England, c Life During Wartime: Crisis, Decline and Transformation in 1970s America Samurai Revolution: Reinventing Japan, The Landscape History of Liguria Plus up to three of the year-three optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. For more detailed module information, please visit the individual course listings at

8 BA History of Art and English Literature has long been a key influence on themes and narratives in art production. This wide-ranging and varied course combines the study of English literature and the visual arts in Europe and North America. History of art requires visual awareness and understanding, which enhances the literary historical focus of English and vice versa. Year one You gain familiarity with the practices of working at degree level in both subjects. In English, you have a choice of three core modules from the areas of English language and applied linguistics, modern English literature, medieval studies and drama and performance. In history of art, you will take two core modules, Introduction to Art History I and II. These modules are concerned with key issues and methods relating to the study of art history and the interpretation of artworks, drawing upon examples from the Renaissance to the present day. You will also take two optional modules of your choice. Year two In English, you will have a choice of options to develop your interests in at least two areas of the discipline: literature 1500 to the present, language and linguistics, medieval languages and literatures, and drama and performance. In history of art you will take three optional modules, choosing from topics covering the 15th to the 21st centuries. Year three You will have the opportunity to take a dissertation in history of art or English and choose from a wide range of optional modules, specialising in key areas of each subject. For more information about the English element of your course, please see A history of art student creating digital images using a copy stand. Typical modules Year one Core modules: Introduction to Art History I Introduction to Art History II Three of the following: Beginnings of English Introduction to Drama Language and Context Studying Literature Two of the year-one optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. Year two Three year-two optional modules in English, such as: Ice and Fire: Myths and Heroes of the North Language Development Literature and Popular Culture Twentieth Century Plays Plus three of the year-two optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. Year three Dissertation in history of art Dissertation in English Up to three year-three optional modules in English, such as: Dreaming in the Middle Ages New Language: English in the Computer Age Oscar Wilde: Literature, Consumerism and the Commodification of Culture Riotous Performance Plus up to three of the yearthree optional modules listed under V350 BA History of Art. For more detailed module information, please visit the individual course listings at

9 How will I study? The two main forms of teaching you will encounter are seminars and lectures, supplemented by other methods such as gallery visits. In addition, all tutors offer feedback sessions when you can talk privately with them about your work. These forms of instruction are very different from the sort of teaching you may have encountered so far in schools and colleges. The key to success at university is your own individual reading and research, carried out before and after teaching sessions. Lectures Lectures are the most formal type of instruction and are valuable in that they: present information which is not readily available in books or online give you an opportunity to hear a specialist develop a significant (perhaps as yet unpublished) argument present varied audio-visual material Most modules combine lecture and seminar instruction, so you will have a chance to discuss and question the material presented in lectures. Seminars In seminars you will be taught with a small group of fellow students, with discussion focusing on selected works of art or a topic you ve previously prepared, in friendly and informal atmosphere. The purpose of the seminar is to provide an opportunity to try out new ideas and to think through difficulties with the support of fellow learners. Museum and gallery visits First-hand study of art and architecture will form an important part of your learning experience. We dedicate one week each semester to local and national museum and gallery visits, with trips to sites within Nottingham taking place more frequently. International study trip As part of the core second-year module on the single honours degree, students will take part in a guided visit to a European city. In giving you the freedom to pursue your own academic interests, the module aims to build your confidence as an independent researcher in preparation for the final year. For more information, see the International study trip section on page 20. Your week Your typical week s work may feel strange after school or college, since there are fewer timetabled hours. In the first year, history of art students can expect to attend 12 hours of timetabled classes each week. For the rest of the time you will be working independently, doing the necessary reading in preparation for seminars, writing essays or working on seminar presentations. You will also have the opportunity to gain individual feedback and advice in the weekly consultation sessions offered by all tutors. Key Information Sets Key Information Sets (KIS) are comparable sets of information about full or part-time undergraduate courses and are designed to meet the information needs of prospective students. All KIS data is published on the Unistats website: For Nottingham s KIS data, please see individual course entries at History of art students on a study visit to Wollaton Hall

10 How will I be assessed? Students talking about a photography exhibition at the Wallner Gallery, DH Lawrence Pavilion. You will undertake modules of study with assessment at the end of each semester. The teaching year The teaching year is divided into two semesters. The first semester lasts for 14 weeks, with 12 weeks for teaching and revision and two weeks for assessment. The second semester follows the same pattern, but there are an additional two weeks at the end to complete the assessment process and to enable returning students to discuss their results with tutors and begin to plan the next session s work. Although the teaching year is divided into two semesters for organisational purposes, this is fitted into the traditional pattern of three terms: one before Christmas; one between Christmas and Easter; and one after Easter. Assessment methods Assessment for your degree is based on a combination of coursework (including essays but also less formal kinds of writing for some modules), oral presentations and formal examinations; the precise assessment varies from one module to another. Where a module lasts for one semester, assessment is undertaken at the end of that semester. Where a module fills two semesters, assessment is at the end of the second semester, although your progress will be measured throughout the year. Your final degree classification Your second and third-year results count respectively for 40% and 60% of your final, overall grade. The first year is a qualifying year, which means you must pass this year to progress to the second year, but your mark will not contribute to your degree classification. As well as attaining specific knowledge I feel I have a better understanding of how I learn and how much there is still to learn and discover. The course also gave me greater confidence in my own abilities and has helped secure my job in an arts centre. My degree has enabled me to carry out my work with passion and authority. Sarah Cribb, BA Art History (2012) Visual Arts Assistant, Nottingham Lakeside Arts 18 19

11 Study abroad The encourages students to consider the opportunities for studying abroad, which are provided through our International Study module and the Universitas 21 programme. Studying abroad is a fantastic way to broaden your cultural horizons, enhance your personal development and enrich your study of history of art. We offer several opportunities for history of art students to study overseas as part of their degree. International study trip In the second year of the single honours degree in history of art, all students take the year-long core International Study module. As part of this module, students take part in a guided visit to a European city, accompanied by tutors. Recent destinations have included Amsterdam, Berlin, Paris and Rome. In the autumn semester, students undertake field trips in Nottingham to prepare for the first-hand study required on the overseas visit. They also attend lectures and seminars exploring the history and culture of the destination city. The trip itself, which takes place in the spring semester, enables students to examine a wide range of artworks first-hand, both independently and through on-site teaching. This primary research forms the basis of an independent study project, which students develop in consultation with tutors. By spending a number of days in one location, students are able to situate their chosen topic within the cultural context of the city as a whole. Universitas 21 (University-wide programme) Universitas 21 is an international network of leading research intensive universities, of which The University of Nottingham is a founding member. The programme offers full-time undergraduate students the opportunity to study at one of our partner universities as part of their Nottingham degree. These opportunities are available in a number of countries within and outside Europe and they look excellent on your CV. If you are a single honours history of art student, you can apply to study abroad for one semester of your third year. If you are a joint honours student, you have the option of applying for one semester of your second or third year. You will need to have attained a 60% average in assessments undertaken at Nottingham in order to be considered. History of art students can apply to study in the following countries: Australia Canada China Ireland Japan New Zealand Singapore South Korea Sweden USA Summer schools The University also offers the chance to apply to study abroad at overseas summer schools. As these programmes are offered during holiday periods, you can study whatever is of interest to you, but credits and grades cannot be transferred back to Nottingham. Further information on studying abroad, including fact sheets on the opportunities available for each department, can be found at exchanges Dedicated support If you do decide to apply to study abroad, the University s International Office will offer support from the application stage right through to your return to the UK, with advice on everything from immigration to possible sources of financial support. Find out more: For me, International Study was the module that pulled together everything we had learnt in our other history of art modules, and made everything click into place. Having a whole city of art to work with first-hand meant that we were able to be individual in our choice of topic, and it was a great opportunity for us to refine and focus our art historical interests before deciding on a dissertation topic. Bethany Wright BA History of Art (third year) The CN Tower dominates the Toronto skyline

12 Career and employment prospects The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain s leading graduate employers*. Our graduates are widely respected for their ability to make the most of their work/life balance and have a wide choice of career opportunities open to them, both in employment and further study. Many of our graduates remain in touch with us and we ask them to return to share their career stories with current students. Graduate career destinations Our graduates move into an extraordinarily wide range of employment areas. These include advertising; arts administration; conservation; education (in schools, museums or galleries); heritage management; journalism; law; librarianship; management; marketing; planning; public relations; publishing; research; and television research. Transferable skills Our history of art courses train students in visual and critical analysis, historical and theoretical study, object-based research, academic research and advanced writing. Our teaching and assessment methods require students to work collaboratively and independently, and to develop the writing, presentation and communication skills that are highly valued in many competitive work environments. Average starting salary In 2014, 96% of first-degree graduates in the department who were available for employment had secured work or further study within six months of graduation. The average starting salary was 17,750 with the highest being 22,000.** Recent graduates Laura Turner Curator, Young People s Programme, Tate, London; Henrietta Ward Curatorial Fellow, Dulwich Picture Gallery, London; Charlotte Wood Marketing Manager, Victoria and Albert Museum, London. The University s Careers and Employability Service Our Careers and Employability Service, which is based on University Park Campus, offers an extensive range of careers-oriented services, including CV-writing sessions, interview advice, presentations by major employers and general career advice. As a University of Nottingham graduate, you will receive lifelong support from the service. This means that you can ask a careers adviser to look over your job application in person, by or Skype, and you can also access a database of graduate vacancies. For more information see Nottingham Advantage Award The University s Advantage Award is a programme of activities developed to recognise and reward extracurricular responsibilities. It allows you to gain recognition for participating in a wide range of activities accredited by the University and delivered by top graduate employers, professional services and members of staff of the University. It also shows employers that you have gone above and beyond your degree and gained valuable transferable skills. For further information, please visit For information about internships and volunteering opportunities, which can help you build yet more skills, see pages 5-6. Data sources: * The Graduate Market in 2013, 2014 and 2015, High Fliers Research. ** Known destinations of full-time home and EU first-degree graduates, 2013/14. The city of Nottingham is home to an energetic and innovative arts community that offers students of history of art excellent opportunities for professional development to complement their degree. The department has strong connections with a number of arts organisations in the East Midlands, and we encourage our students to engage with the arts beyond, as well as within, the University. Lara Pucci Assistant Professor Graduation days are a chance for students to celebrate their success with family, friends and University staff

13 A history of art postgraduate student studies art work in the Djanogly Gallery. Postgraduate opportunities After finishing their BA degree course, many of our students take their studies further. Some go on to study postgraduate courses at other universities, while others stay at Nottingham and do a masters degree in history of art or visual culture, or undertake a PhD. Taught masters The offers the following masters degrees: MA Art History MA Visual Culture Masters study combines the core modules Critical Approaches to Art History and Visual Culture, and Criticism and Display, with optional thematic modules that draw on the research specialisms of the department. Research opportunities The vibrant research culture of the department contributes to the popularity of the programmes, which is evident in our consistent record of attracting doctoral students. Research opportunities available in the department are: MRes Art History MRes Visual Culture PhD/MPhil Art History PhD/MPhil Visual Culture More information about postgraduate opportunities is available from our departmental website: / prospective/postgraduate The degree culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation on a topic of your choice, produced with the specialist supervision of a member of academic staff

14 I like the fact that there are lots of modules to choose from there s always a variety, from Renaissance to contemporary. I also like the element of choice, especially as a student who wants to become an art historian or work in the field. Charlotte Hopson, BA History of Art Find out more about Charlotte s experience at Charlotte is sequencing slides on the lightbox for presentation in the Digital Humanities Centre. a Scan the code to watch this video on your smartphone

15 Staff research interests Graduate profile The University of Nottingham is a major research-led university, which means that you will be taught by a friendly and engaging team of lecturers who are active researchers as well as teachers. Members of academic staff publish regularly in books and academic journals and teach modules based on their research, which means that students benefit from expert knowledge and the latest developments in the field. Our teaching and research expertise ranges from the Renaissance to the present day. For more information on specific areas of expertise you can visit each lecturer s research profile: /staff Areas of current staff research include: American visual culture Art and mobility Art in California after 1945 Cultural exchange between France, Japan, and China Cultural relations in Renaissance Italy Early photography and representations of Rome Film and memory Health, disease and the Roman landscape, Land art of the 1960s and 1970s Landscape in Britain since 1800 Legacies of surrealism in America New topographics and American photography Political and visual cultures in 20th-century Italy Theodor Adorno and critical theory I currently work for a creative agency as a business development manager. My role is very varied, which is great as I enjoy taking on different duties and responsibilities on a daily basis. The nature of a creative agency is very exciting and fast-paced: one day I am researching the gambling world at a gaming convention, a few days later I m typing minutes for a workshop with a charity, and the next I m chatting to Metro and Kiss radio about promoting a zombie event! My route into this role had been closely connected to my university career, both on and off the course. Throughout my time at Nottingham I worked as a student telephone fundraiser for the University s Campaign and Alumni Relations Office, at Nottingham Contemporary as a marketing intern and gallery assistant, as well as being a student ambassador. Upon graduating, I took up a sales and marketing internship with the publisher Taschen, after hearing about this opportunity through the Department of History of Art. It was this role that led to an interview for my first job with my current employer. In my current role I see my history of art degree influencing me on a daily basis. A lot of my work involves user experience design and product development, which can be linked to the way that history of art encourages explorations of the way we view things. I have written several blog posts highlighting the connections between art and the work of the creative agency. Without studying history of art at Nottingham, I can whole-heartedly say I would not have the job that I have now, which I am lucky enough to say is linked to my course and is something I thoroughly enjoy! Alice Wilkie BA Art History (2012) Students visiting the Djanogly Art Gallery on University Park Campus

16 Your student experience You ve read lots about the degree programme you re interested in, now it s time to explore life outside the lecture theatre. There s so much for you to get involved in and explore at the University and around the city. We are proud to be one of the leading universities for student experience in the UK*, which will ensure that you have a university experience you ll never forget. Your University of Nottingham at home and around the world We are proud of our stunning campuses and are continually investing in our grounds, buildings and amenities to ensure that you have only the best surroundings in which to live and study. Our main UK campuses have a mix of state-of-the-art facilities, including sports centres, places to eat and excellent learning facilities on every campus. We ve made getting from campus to campus as easy as possible and students can benefit from our free inter-campus Hopper Bus, so you re never far away from the striking architecture and innovative technology of Jubilee Campus, the rolling parkland and period buildings at University Park, or the cutting-edge features of Sutton Bonington. The University of Nottingham is Britain s global university with campuses in the UK, China and Malaysia. We also have links with more than 300 universities in over 40 countries, adding a truly global flavour to your degree and giving you the chance to explore the world. Find out more: Your new home from home At Nottingham we offer a range of different accommodation options, rooms are available as single or shared, en suite or shared bathroom, all the way through to studio flats, and vary from self-catered to fully catered (19 meals per week). We also offer a guarantee of University accommodation for one year to all new full-time undergraduate students, subject to the following conditions: you firmly accept your course place at Nottingham, accept your offer of accommodation by the deadline given in your offer letter, and have an unconditional status no later than 31 August in the year you intend to begin your studies. If you are a new, full-time undergraduate student who is classified as international for fee purposes, this guarantee applies for three years**. For more information, including a breakdown of pricing, see Your support network Throughout your university journey there will be numerous people on hand to support you, including tutors and dedicated staff who will be able to advise you on various aspects of life as a student. We have Student Services Centres on all three of our UK campuses, which provide a range of support, information and specialist services to enhance your student experience. This support includes: Academic Support can provide practical advice on areas of academic study; the service also provides specialist academic support for students with dyslexia, dyspraxia and other specific learning difficulties Disability Support coordinates support and access arrangements for students with a disability or long-term medical condition Financial Support provides information on the sources of finance available from government agencies and the University itself, and gives advice about financial matters Student Services also advise on issues ranging from childcare, counselling and health to international student support, chaplaincy and faith support, as well as offering advice on paying your tuition and accommodation fees Whatever you may need support with, they will either be able to help or point you in the direction of someone who can. Find out more: * Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey, ** Providing you submit your returners application in line with the requirements of the accommodation providers. Take a look at our accommodation video for a taster of what to expect at Nottingham: Our halls of residence are great places to catch up with friends. Nottingham is traditionally one of the most popular universities for undergraduates. The Guardian University Guide

17 Students relaxing at Broadway Cinema in Nottingham city centre. Getting involved in your Students Union As soon as you start at The University of Nottingham, you are automatically enrolled as a member of our Students Union, which is considered to be one of the best in the country. There are hundreds of activities that you could take part in, providing you with the perfect opportunity to take up a new hobby or pursue existing interests. Choose from over 200 student-run societies, covering all interests and abilities, as well as local and national volunteering projects, to which you can commit as much or as little time as you wish. Our Students Union is home to a number of award-winning student-run media groups, which give you the chance to gain practical work experience both behind the scenes or centre stage as a presenter, actor or journalist. The Nottingham New Theatre, Impact magazine, Nottingham Student Television (NSTV) and University Radio Nottingham (URN) have all been recognised as the best in their field, winning a clutch of awards for outstanding achievements. However you decide to become involved in the Union, you can be sure you will make new friends and learn new skills, all while having a lot of fun! Find out more: Sports We offer sport at all levels and an excellent all-inclusive student membership offer, so whether you enjoy sport as a hobby or are an elite athlete we will have just what you need. We have over 70 sports clubs, which means we have the 2nd highest number of sports clubs of any UK university. If you re not interested in joining a team but want to stay fit, we have sports centres on all of our main UK campuses. Find out more: Exploring your new city With Nottingham city centre just a 10-minute bus ride away from University Park Campus, our students are always close to the action. Buses run through campus regularly and many run late-night services too, which is handy if you re a night owl. History and culture can be found in all corners of the city, with Nottingham Castle, the Galleries of Justice Museum, Nottingham Lakeside Arts the University s public arts centre located on our University Park Campus arthouse cinemas and three of the world s oldest pubs all providing points of interest. The city has a thriving contemporary arts scene, with Nottingham Contemporary one of the largest contemporary arts centres in the UK New Art Exchange, and several cutting-edge studios and exhibition spaces, including Backlit, Primary and Surface. Music lovers can take their pick from the worldfamous Rock City, Capital FM Arena or one of the smaller gig venues for a more intimate live show. Nottingham is rich in performance venues, with comedy clubs and theatres catering for lovers of drama, musicals, ballet and panto. We are very proud of our sporting heritage, and with football clubs Nottingham Forest and Notts County in the city, as well as Trent Bridge cricket ground and the National Ice Centre on your doorstep, you might just become a sports fan if you re not one already. If you enjoy shopping, Nottingham is perfect for you; independent boutiques and vintage shops in the bohemian area of Hockley mix with high street names in our large shopping centres to make Nottingham a veritable shopping haven. Find out more: Download our city guide:

18 Applying for a place We are looking for students who have the ability and motivation to benefit from our courses, and who will make a valued contribution to the department and the University. Candidates for full-time admission are considered on the basis of their Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) form. For more information on how to make your application stand out, have a look at our online prospectus: Application process All applications for an undergraduate place to study at The University of Nottingham (including applications by overseas students) must be made through UCAS at Candidates will be notified of decisions through UCAS Track at track.ucas.com Applying with achieved A level grades If you apply to us having already completed your A levels, your application will be considered in exactly the same way as those from candidates with predicted grades. Please tell us something about your gap year in your UCAS personal statement. Entry numbers To find out how many students the department plans to admit onto each course, please see the table on page 8. For tips and advice at every step of your application journey, visit our undergraduate applicants area: The selection procedure We select students based on a number of factors. Predicted grades are important but we are also interested in the reasons that our applicants have for wishing to study history of art. This is particularly important in the case of mature students who may bring other important experience beyond academic qualifications. We do not require prior experience of history of art and welcome applications from all those with an interest in the subject. Applicants are not routinely interviewed, and if you are offered a place you will be invited to a UCAS visit day. The aim of the visit is for you to ensure that Nottingham meets your needs and aspirations. In addition to a formal presentation, which provides further details of course options and career pathways, you will also be able to attend taster sessions and meet members of the teaching staff and current undergraduate students. Your personal statement This is the section of your UCAS form that tells us the most about you, and you should make the best use of it. Be as specific and detailed as you can for example, tell us something about the kinds of artworks or exhibitions you have seen, and show us how you have thought about them. Make sure your writing is accurate: remember that a well-written personal statement makes a good impression. Tell us about yourself and how you spend your time outside your studies. We would like to see that you are a student who can work hard, be self-motivating and make the best possible use of the opportunities this course might have to offer you. Required subjects All A level subjects in the arts, humanities, sciences and social sciences are regarded as acceptable. Alternative qualifications In this brochure you will find our A level entry requirements but we accept a much broader range of qualifications. These include: Access to HE Diploma Advanced Diploma BTEC HND/HNC BTEC Extended Diploma Cambridge Pre-U International Baccalaureate Irish Leaving Certificate Scottish Advanced Highers Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma This list is not exhaustive; we will consider applicants with other qualifications on an individual basis. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Flexible admissions policy In recognition of our applicants varied experience and educational pathways, we employ a flexible admissions policy. If we judge that your situation has adversely affected your achievement, then we will consider this when assessing your academic potential. If you wish to mention information about your experiences in your personal statement, then you should ask the teacher or tutor writing your reference to confirm what you have written. We may ask for further evidence and may consider a range of factors. For more information, please see Mature applicants We encourage applications from mature students (which means all those aged 21 or over when the course begins). You should apply in the normal way through UCAS (unless you want to study part-time, in which case you should apply directly to the department). While we accept a range of qualifications, you should check our specific requirements on UCAS course entry profiles. If in doubt, please contact the admissions tutor, who will be happy to answer any specific queries you have about applying as a mature student. Please your queries to history-of-art@nottingham.ac.uk We normally invite mature applicants in whom we are interested to come for an interview, where we will look for evidence of your ability to study at a high academic level and of commitment to the subject. For more information on being a mature student, please see Part-time study The department offers the opportunity to study part-time. Applicants should note, however, that teaching for the part-time degree takes place during normal hours; there is no provision for teaching in the evening, at weekends or during vacations. Part-time students normally follow exactly half the course of full-time students each year, and therefore complete their degree within six years. Entry requirements are the same as those for full-time students on the relevant degree course (with the same exceptions for mature students). If you re interested in studying part-time with us, please contact the department using the details on page 38 rather than applying through UCAS

19 Frequently asked questions International applicants We welcome applications from international students and have students from many parts of the world studying with us at undergraduate and postgraduate level. All international candidates for undergraduate courses should apply through UCAS. The University s International Office offers guidance and advice on matters such as visa and immigration regulations, working and living in the UK, entry requirements and preparing for coming to Nottingham and arranges a Welcome Programme for new international students each September. If you would like to visit the University and are unable to attend an open day, the International Office will be happy to arrange an individual visit for you. For further information please visit studywithus/international-applicants International Baccalaureate UK applicants presenting qualifications in the International Baccalaureate must attain a total of at least 32 points (including bonus points). Applicants presenting other qualifications such as the European, French or International Option Baccalaureate and the German Abitur, will be judged on a standard equivalent to the UK A level grades. English language requirements Our English language requirements are: IELTS 7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element). For more information and a list of the alternative English language requirements we accept, please see alternativerequirements Preparing to study in English academic English preparation and support The University of Nottingham Centre for English Language Education (CELE) offers high-quality academic English and study skills (presessional) programmes to prepare you to study your degree in English. Our programmes are designed to give international students excellent preparation for their academic studies and are taught by experienced, professional tutors. CELE provides a range of programmes throughout the year, including five-week subject-specific courses (in some subjects) and a four-week course in September for students with unconditional offers, with a focus on academic study skills. You can continue to benefit from academic English support with free classes and one-to-one consultations throughout your study (insessional programmes). For more information about CELE, please visit Deferred entry Applicants who wish to defer their entry by a year will not be at a disadvantage. Please tell us something about your plans for your gap year in your UCAS personal statement. Equal opportunities policy The University aims to create the conditions whereby students and staff are treated solely on the basis of their merits, abilities and potential, regardless of gender, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, age, socio-economic background, disability, religious or political beliefs, trade union membership, family circumstances, sexual orientation or other irrelevant distinction. How much are the fees? Like many universities in England, Nottingham charges full-time UK and EU students an annual tuition fee of 9,000. However, you will not have to pay your fees while studying the government will lend eligible students the money, which you will start to pay back once you have left university and are earning at least 21,000. For more information, please see Fees for students from outside the EU vary from subject to subject. For more information, please see the New international students section on What bursaries are available? Although bursary figures for 2016/17 are yet to be finalised, the University will continue to offer a generous package of bursary support to students from lower income households. These are in addition to any support you may receive from the government. For more information please see or take a look at the funding tab on the relevant course entry in our online prospectus: If you are an international applicant (outside of the EU), please see the New international students section on What support is available for students with children? There are a range of services provided to support students with children, including a University day nursery, a playscheme and a playcentre day care. There is also a scheme to help students fund childcare. For more information, see What support do you offer for students with a disability or dyslexia? We are committed to promoting access for students who have a disability, dyslexia or a long-term medical condition. Services provided by the University aim to enable students to fulfil the inherent requirements of the course as independently as possible. Students who have a disability, specific learning difficulty or long-term medical condition can contact the disability liaison officer in the School of Humanities to ensure that support is available from the start of the degree. The University s Disability Statement, which lists services, facilities and opportunities available throughout the University can be viewed at www. nottingham.ac.uk/disability Visit our website for more frequently asked questions:

20 Visiting and contacting us Open days If you re considering applying to The University of Nottingham we recommend that you try to attend one of the University-wide open days, which are held in June and September each year and attract around 30,000 visitors. Find out more: Mini open days Mini open days are much smaller than the main open days but offer the same opportunities to attend various talks and tours as well as speak to current students and academics. Find out more: or call +44 (0) Virtual open day If you can t attend one of our open days in person, or would like to explore our campuses before visiting, take a look at our virtual open day: UCAS visit days Once you ve been offered a place at Nottingham, you will be invited to attend a UCAS visit day, which is an opportunity for you to visit the department and to find out more about your chosen course. You can attend taster sessions, hear about our courses and extracurricular activities, speak to staff and students, and take part in a campus tour. This publication is available in alternative formats. t: +44 (0) The University of Nottingham has made every effort to ensure that the information in this brochure was accurate when published. Please note, however, that the nature of the content means that it is subject to change from time to time, and you should therefore consider the information to be guiding rather than definitive. You should check the University s website for any updates before you decide to accept a place on a course. The University of Nottingham All rights reserved. Other visits If you wish to make an informal visit to the University prior to applying here, you are welcome to do so, but you should contact us in advance if you wish to visit the department or speak to an admissions tutor, and we will do our best to oblige. Contact us The University of Nottingham University Park Nottingham NG7 2RD t: +44 (0) e: history-of-art@nottingham.ac.uk w: For international student enquiries, please contact: The International Office t: +44 (0) f: +44 (0) e: international-office@nottingham.ac.uk w: You can also connect with fellow applicants and current students on our applicants Facebook and Twitter UoNApplicants Printed May Study What You L ve #studywhatyoulove Arts and Humanities Your passion can be your success. Study what you love. Our creative responses help make us unique. Learn about the lives of others, their thought processes and their influences and explore your own reactions. We ll help you turn an inspiring degree into an inspiring career. Find out more: studywhatyoulove 38 39