University of York

What you'll study

The programme traces art and visual culture from medieval to contemporary periods while introducing methods and theories central to the discipline. In the early years you take core modules on art-historical skills, visual analysis, and contextual approaches; you will also study survey courses that cover key periods, media and geographic areas. In later years you choose from optional modules across subjects such as medieval and Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art and theory, Islamic and non‑Western visual cultures, architecture, and visual culture.

The year abroad, taken between the second and final years, can be spent studying at an approved partner university or undertaking an approved work placement in a cultural institution. It is designed to deepen regional or thematic specialisms, develop language competence where relevant, and provide vocational experience. In the final year students normally complete an independent dissertation or research project alongside advanced option modules in areas such as curating, museum studies, conservation principles, digital methods in art history, and visual culture theory.

• Year 1: introductory modules on methods, visual analysis and broad chronological surveys.
• Year 2: more specialised option modules and skills-based courses (archive research, object handling, curatorial practice).
• Year abroad: study at a partner institution or approved placement, with academic supervision and assessment according to host/University arrangements.
• Final year: dissertation or major research project plus advanced option modules and opportunities for placement-based assessment.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have strong secondary school qualifications or equivalent, typically including advanced level study in relevant subjects; the programme accepts a wide range of international qualifications. Successful applicants usually show evidence of strong written and visual analysis skills and may be asked to provide a personal statement demonstrating their interest in art history and the value they would gain from a year abroad.

Because the programme includes an international study or placement year, applicants must be able to meet any language or visa requirements associated with their proposed host country or placement. Arrangements for the year abroad are agreed with departmental tutors and students normally need to fulfil progression requirements in the first two years to be eligible to continue.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across the cultural and creative sectors. Common destinations include museums and galleries (curating, collections management, education), heritage organisations, archives, the art market and auction houses, arts administration and policy, publishing and journalism, and arts education. Many students combine the degree with internships or placements during their year abroad or final year to gain practical experience. For careers in conservation or academia graduates typically undertake specialised postgraduate training or research degrees.

Why study at University of York

Studying History of Art at York offers close engagement with research-active staff and a curriculum that balances historical breadth with opportunities for focused specialism. The University's location in a city with rich historical architecture and active cultural institutions provides ready access to museums, galleries and heritage sites for teaching and placement opportunities. The department supports international study and placements through established links with partner universities and cultural organisations, and students benefit from small-group seminars, language support where appropriate, and structured supervision for independent research projects.