Fine Art

The Fine Art programme at Oxford Brookes University offers students a comprehensive and dynamic educational experience designed to develop their artistic skills, critical thinking, and professional practice. This undergraduate course provides a supportive environment where students can explore diverse media, techniques, and concepts, fostering their individual creativity and enabling them to produce innovative artworks. Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to engage with contemporary art practices, participate in exhibitions, and collaborate with peers and industry professionals. The curriculum combines practical studio work with theoretical studies, including art history, cultural analysis, and contemporary art discourse, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the art world. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped studios, digital media labs, and exhibition spaces, to facilitate experimentation and original creation. The programme emphasizes the importance of personal development, encouraging students to reflect on their artistic journey and refine their unique voice. Experienced faculty members provide mentorship and guidance, supporting students in their progression from fledgling artists to confident practitioners ready for careers in art, design, or related fields. Graduates of the Fine Art programme have gone on to exhibit their work nationally and internationally, pursue postgraduate studies, or establish careers as professional artists, curators, educators, or entrepreneurs. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, exploring areas such as painting, sculpture, installation art, printmaking, and new media. With a focus on both traditional craftsmanship and innovative approaches, the Fine Art programme aims to cultivate versatile and critically engaged artists equipped to contribute meaningfully to the contemporary art scene.

The Fine Art programme at Oxford Brookes University offers a comprehensive and immersive education in the development of artistic skills, critical thinking, and creative practice. Students will explore a wide range of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and new media, enabling them to develop a versatile and personal artistic voice. The curriculum is designed to foster experimentation, innovation, and critical engagement with contemporary art practices. Throughout the course, students will participate in studio-based learning, individual and group projects, and regular exhibitions, providing valuable opportunities for professional development and public presentation of their work.

The programme emphasizes both technical proficiency and conceptual understanding, encouraging students to investigate themes, ideas, and social issues through their art. Students will benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studio spaces, workshops, and digital media resources, supporting diverse artistic explorations. Additionally, the programme offers opportunities for collaborative projects and interdisciplinary approaches, reflecting the evolving nature of contemporary art.

Students are encouraged to engage with external exhibitions, galleries, and artist-led initiatives to broaden their perspectives and build networks within the art community. The course also includes critical theory modules that enhance students’ understanding of art history, contemporary debates, and cultural contexts, fostering well-rounded and thoughtful artists. The final year culminates in a substantial solo or group exhibition, enabling students to showcase their developed practice to the public and potential employers or galleries.

Graduates from the Fine Art programme at Oxford Brookes University will be equipped with a strong portfolio, creative confidence, and the skills necessary to pursue careers in a variety of art-related fields, including professional art practice, gallery work, art education, curatorial roles, and further postgraduate studies. The programme prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the contemporary art scene, driven by originality, critical insight, and technical mastery.

Programme requirements for BA (Hons) Fine Art at Oxford Brookes University typically include a combination of academic qualifications, portfolio submission, and other criteria. Applicants are usually required to have completed a relevant secondary education, such as A-levels or equivalent international qualifications, with a typical offer being BBB or equivalent. A strong interest and background in visual arts are essential, demonstrated through a comprehensive portfolio of artwork showcasing creativity, technical skills, and originality. The portfolio should include recent works that reflect a range of media, concepts, and techniques, and may be submitted digitally or in person, depending on the application process. Additionally, applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement that outlines their motivation and commitment to studying fine art, along with relevant experience or exhibitions if available.

International students need to meet English language requirements, such as an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no element below 5.5, or equivalent qualifications. For applicants with existing art or design qualifications, the university assesses portfolios on a case-by-case basis and may offer conditional places subject to meeting entry criteria. Work experience within artistic fields can strengthen an application but is not mandatory.

The programme also values diversity of thought and background, encouraging applicants from a variety of educational and cultural contexts. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to think critically and develop a personal approach to their art practice. The selection process involves review of the submitted portfolio and may include an interview or supplementary task to assess creative thinking and communication skills.

Once enrolled, students are expected to engage actively with studio practice, critique sessions, and exhibitions. The programme aims to develop a student's technical proficiency, conceptual understanding, and professional skills necessary for a career in the arts. Attendance at lectures, seminars, and workshops is required, along with independent research and development of individual projects. Ongoing assessment is based on portfolio submissions, coursework, and final projects, emphasizing process and originality. Students are also encouraged to participate in galleries and art events to enhance their practical experience and industry connections.

The Fine Art program at Oxford Brookes University offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the level of study and student status—UK, EU, or international. For UK and EU students, full-time undergraduate tuition fees are typically around £9,250 per year, while international students pay higher fees, approximately £14,000 to £15,000 annually. Postgraduate fees can range from £8,000 to £12,000 per year, depending on the specific master's program and residency status.

Students are encouraged to explore multiple sources of funding to support their education. Scholarships and bursaries are available based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the program. Oxford Brookes University offers several dedicated scholarships for Fine Art students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. For example, there are merit-based scholarships that reward academic achievement, and support schemes aimed at students from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.

In addition to scholarships, students can access government funding schemes, such as student loans. UK students are eligible for tuition fee loans and maintenance loans provided by the UK government, which can cover tuition costs and living expenses during the period of study. These loans are repayable after graduation, based on income levels.

International students are advised to secure funding from their home country, private lenders, or international scholarship programs. Some students also consider part-time work opportunities on or near campus, which can help supplement their income. Oxford Brookes University facilitates part-time employment options through campus job placements and collaborations with local businesses.

Students should also consider funds for research projects, materials, and equipment, especially for art and design studies where studio work and materials can be costly. The university's facilities include dedicated studio spaces, digital labs, and access to creative resources, but some students may need additional financial support for specific projects.

Financial planning is an important part of preparing for Fine Art studies at Oxford Brookes University. Students are encouraged to consult the university's finance office, scholarship office, and dedicated student support services to access the most current information and personalized advice on funding options. External sources such as charitable foundations, arts councils, and private sponsors may also provide grants or awards geared towards art students. Overall, careful planning and leveraging available funding sources can make studying Fine Art at Oxford Brookes University an attainable goal for many students.

This undergraduate program in Fine Art at Oxford Brookes University offers students a comprehensive education in the practices, theories, and history of contemporary and traditional art. The course is designed to develop students' individual artistic voice and critical understanding, providing a supportive environment where creativity and experimentation are encouraged. The program encompasses a wide range of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, and digital media, enabling students to explore various forms of visual expression.

Students will engage with a diverse curriculum that combines practical studio work, critical seminars, lectures, and workshop sessions. The program emphasizes the development of technical skills alongside contextual understanding, encouraging students to critically analyze their own work and that of others within contemporary art discourse. Throughout the course, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped studios, digital labs, printmaking workshops, and sculpture areas, fostering an environment conducive to experimentation and innovation.

The course also integrates opportunities for professional development and real-world experience through internships, collaborative projects, exhibitions, and visits to galleries and artist studios. This professional focus aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in the arts sector, whether as practicing artists, curators, educators, or in other creative industries. Throughout their studies, students will be supported by experienced tutors who are active practitioners and researchers in their fields.

The theoretical component of the program encourages critical engagement with a broad spectrum of art movements, cultural contexts, and visual culture. Students are encouraged to develop individual research projects, culminating in a major final work or exhibition that showcases their artistic achievements and critical insights. The program also emphasizes independent thinking, self-motivation, and continuous professional development.

Oxford Brookes University’s Fine Art program benefits from strong links with the local arts community, galleries, and art organizations, offering students valuable networking opportunities. The program is suited for individuals passionate about pursuing a career in the visual arts or further academic research through postgraduate study. Overall, it aims to produce well-rounded, critically engaged, and technically skilled artists ready to contribute creatively to society.