Art and Design

The BA (Hons) Art and Design programme at Liverpool John Moores University offers students a comprehensive and dynamic education in the field of visual arts. Designed to nurture creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking, this course provides a flexible pathway into a wide range of artistic careers. Throughout the programme, students engage with a diverse array of disciplines including fine art, digital media, illustration, graphic design, and multimedia practice, allowing them to develop a versatile skill set tailored to their personal interests and career ambitions. The curriculum is carefully structured to balance practical hands-on experience with theoretical understanding, encouraging students to experiment and innovate while reflecting critically on their work and the wider cultural context. Facilities at Liverpool John Moores University include dedicated studios, workshops, and digital labs, all equipped with industry-standard tools and technology to support artistic development. The programme emphasizes the importance of a professional approach, with opportunities for industry placements, exhibitions, and collaborations that prepare students for the competitive creative industries. Extensive support is provided by experienced tutors who are active practitioners in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the course. Graduates of this programme have gone on to work in various sectors including art galleries, advertising agencies, design studios, and freelance creative practice. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary learning and innovation, fostering an environment where students can experiment with new media, materials, and ideas. By the end of the course, students will have developed a strong portfolio showcasing their unique style and technical expertise, ready to pursue further education or enter the creative workforce confidently. This programme is ideal for those passionate about exploring the visual arts and eager to develop their voice as innovative art and design practitioners in a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.

This programme allows the exploration and critical appraisal of individually negotiated Art and Design research projects. You will explore subject-specific research practices, with an ultimate view to interpreting these concepts, methodologies and debates in your own final art and design project.

Applying a range of historical, contemporary and critical processes, you will produce a rich and original piece of work using a specialist, descriptive and interpretative vocabulary.

You will also acquire skills in scholarly presentation, organisation communication, documentation and evaluation.

Under the guidance of specialist supervision, and amongst a diverse community of fellow researchers, your work will include the opportunity to present a Symposium at Tate Liverpool and will culminate in the MRes thesis. This final assessment and celebration, will provide you with experience of real-world research processes. This will include an academic Q&A and new opportunities to connect with professionals in this heavily networked arts sector.

• Research methods for arts, professional and social studies
• Professional development for researchers in arts, professional and social studies
• Research proposition and development
• Research project

Requirements

• You will normally be expected to have a good first degree in a visual arts related subject, although applications from students with other degrees will be considered.
• An IELTS 6.5 score demonstrating your proficiency in English 
• Make sure you add as much detail as possible – including grades and results. Without enough information universities might struggle to make a decision.
• The application fee is £13 if you’re applying to just one course, or £24 for multiple courses 
• All academic transcripts
• Copies of degree/diploma certificates or work reference (if employed)
• Applicants must complete the online application and provide evidence of previous qualifications.
• One academic reference
• We also require a personal statement and a clearly written research proposal. The Research proposal should be approximately 1,000 words.
• Copy of your valid passport (with a minimum of 6 months left before expiration)
• In addition to normal entry requirements, you will be expected to demonstrate a very good level of English language competence, for example an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 or equivalent. Please note: specific courses may require higher levels of English language competence. If you have applied to study a full-time taught Masters, MRes, MPhil or PhD at LJMU, you should check if you require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme or ATAS certificate. It can take four to six weeks to receive an ATAS certificate, so please make sure you apply as early as possible. You can find out more on theBritish Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO)website. Alternatively, contact LJMU’sInternational Admissions Teamfor guidance. Please note: international students entering on a Tier 4 visa cannot study part time. Students entering the UK on alternate types of visa may be in a position to study part time. Please contact LJMU’sInternational Admissions Teamfor further details before making your application. In order to obtain a visa you will also need to show evidence that the money required to cover your tuition fees and living expenses has been in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to submitting your visa application. So please make sure that your finances are in place before applying.

Scholarships

• LJMU Roscoe International Scholarship
• Developing Global Citizens Postgraduate Scholarship
• English for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies Bursary

The BA (Hons) Art and Design program at Liverpool John Moores University offers a comprehensive exploration of creative practices across a variety of media and disciplines. Designed for students passionate about developing their artistic skills and conceptual understanding, the course provides a dynamic environment that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and professional development. Throughout the program, students engage with diverse areas including fine art, graphic design, illustration, multimedia, and contemporary visual practices, enabling them to cultivate a versatile portfolio suited to various careers within the arts and creative industries. The curriculum integrates practical studio work with theoretical studies, fostering a deep understanding of artistic concepts, historical contexts, and current trends. Students have access to excellent facilities, including modern studios, technical workshops, digital labs, and exhibition spaces, which support their creative processes and presentation skills. The program emphasizes individual experimentation and supports students in developing a distinctive personal voice. Collaboration and interdisciplinary projects are encouraged, reflecting real-world creative environments. Additionally, students benefit from industry links and opportunities for placements, networking events, and exhibitions, preparing them for employment or postgraduate study. The academic team includes experienced artists and designers dedicated to mentoring students and facilitating their professional growth. Overall, Liverpool John Moores University’s BA (Hons) Art and Design aims to produce highly skilled, innovative, and adaptable graduates equipped to succeed in the competitive arts landscape.