Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme brings together core historical methods and historiography with the study of paintings, sculpture, architecture, prints and other material culture. Across the degree you will trace chronological and thematic threads — for example medieval to modern political and social history, the history of art and visual culture in Europe, and global perspectives on visuality and objects.

• Foundations and methods: modules on historical approaches, critical theory, visual analysis and research skills that prepare you to read texts and objects as sources.
• Chronological and regional surveys: options covering medieval, early modern and modern periods, including social, political and cultural histories of Britain and wider Europe, and choices that examine cross-cultural and global connections.
• History of Art topics: studies in painting, sculpture, architecture, print culture, photography and new media; thematic modules on patronage, display, iconography and reception.
• Material and object-based learning: handling sessions, object-study projects and gallery-based modules that develop practical skills in looking, describing and contextualising material culture.
• Research project / dissertation: an independent final-year project allowing sustained research on a topic of your choice in history or history of art, supported by specialist supervision.
• Optional professional experience: placement or work-experience modules that link you with museums, galleries, archives or heritage bodies; field trips to regional and international collections and sites are frequently organised.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education to a standard equivalent to UK A-levels or an International Baccalaureate diploma. Admissions typically seek demonstrated achievement across academic subjects, with evidence of strong written communication and critical thinking abilities rather than a requirement for specific subjects.

Mature applicants and those with relevant work or voluntary experience in cultural organisations are encouraged to apply; personal statements and references should set out engagement with history or visual culture. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of History and History of Art proceed into a wide range of careers. The mix of research, writing and analytical skills developed on the degree is valued across the public, private and third sectors.

• Heritage and cultural professions: museum and gallery work, curatorship, collections management and heritage interpretation.
• Archival work, conservation support roles and object handling positions within institutions.
• Education and outreach: teaching, learning coordination and public engagement roles in cultural organisations.
• Publishing, arts administration, journalism and the creative industries where strong contextual and communication skills are required.
• Further study: many graduates go on to postgraduate degrees in history, art history, museum studies, conservation or related fields, or professional qualifications in archives and libraries.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers an interdisciplinary approach within a department that emphasises active, research-led teaching and small-group seminars. The university fosters close links with local museums, galleries and heritage organisations, providing opportunities for placements, object-based learning and collaborative projects.

Based in Oxford, the programme benefits from proximity to world-class libraries and collections and from a city-wide cultural network while maintaining a strong focus on employability and practical skills. Teaching is delivered by staff with active research interests across history and art history, and students can draw on a range of support services for academic development, careers advice and international study options.