Art History & Visual Cultures
This degree will equip you with the knowledge and critical skills to understand the histories and theories of visual, material and spatial cultures.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 6 years
Full time – 3 years
Time limit – 16 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you'll need to succeed. If you're not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
Study of the arts and humanities requires an understanding of human activities in diverse cultural environments and historical contexts. The breadth of study and range of cultural texts and objects analysed, combined with clear thinking and communication, make the BA (Honours) Art History and Visual Cultures relevant to a wide range of careers, including:
• creative and cultural industries
• education
• museums, art galleries and other art institutions
• public administration, local government, the civil service, and social services
• advertising, journalism, publishing, and public relations
• legal work
• business, banking and retail
• human resources
• charities and campaigning.
Other careers
Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.
In addition to improving your career prospects, studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
This degree will equip you with the knowledge and critical skills to understand the histories and theories of visual, material and spatial cultures. This will be a rich and rounded experience as you go beyond the contextual study of art, architecture and design. You'll explore the power of images to influence debates, both historically and in the present day, and develop transferable skills in visual literacy. As you progress you'll acquire critical skills that address the subject area’s place in the wider humanities and as a component of study in the creative and cultural industries.
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• You’ll start Stage 1 with a broad introduction to the arts and humanities followed by a module to develop your knowledge and skills.
• Next, at Stage 2, you’ll study art and visual cultures from prehistory to the present.
• Finally, at Stage 3, you’ll look at art in a global context, before completing your degree with a dissertation module.
Key features of the course
• Explore images, artefacts and architecture from a wide range of periods and places.
• Become familiar with different approaches to the study of visual, spatial and material culture.
• Gain skills in visual literacy, criticism, analysis and communication that will make you highly employable.
• Work on your own dissertation project on a subject that interests you.
We also offer a Diploma of Higher Education in Art History and Visual Cultures (W72) that is the same in structure as the first two-thirds of this degree.
Stage 1 (120 credits)
• Discovering the arts and humanities (A111)
• Cultures (A112)
Stage 2 (120 credits)
• Art and life before 1800 (A237)
• Art and visual cultures in the modern world (A236)
Stage 3 (120 credits)
• Art and its global histories (A344)
• Art and its critical histories (A336)
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.