Philosophy and History of Art

Program Description:

The BA Philosophy and History of Art at University College London offers students a distinctive interdisciplinary education that combines the analytical rigor of philosophy with the cultural and historical insights of art history. This innovative programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of philosophical concepts alongside a deep knowledge of visual arts across different periods and cultures.

Throughout the course, students explore fundamental philosophical questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and aesthetics, while also examining the evolution of visual culture and artistic movements from antiquity to the present day. The curriculum provides a comprehensive grounding in both disciplines, encouraging students to draw meaningful connections between philosophical ideas and artistic practices, and to apply philosophical methods to the interpretation of artworks.

The programme is structured to promote inquiry, debate, and independent research. Core modules include topics such as the nature of beauty and aesthetics, the philosophy of perception, the history of art, and critical analysis of artworks. In addition, students choose optional modules that allow them to tailor their studies towards specific areas of interest, such as contemporary art, classical philosophy, or cultural theory.

In addition to theoretical coursework, students engage in practical exercises, including visual analysis, philosophical essays, and research projects. The programme culminates in a dissertation where students synthesize their knowledge and conduct original research under academic supervision.

With its strong emphasis on critical thinking, visual literacy, and philosophical inquiry, the BA Philosophy and History of Art prepares graduates for diverse careers in the arts, education, cultural management, research, or further academic study. Situated in London, a vibrant hub for arts and culture, students benefit from access to world-class museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, enriching their academic experience and professional prospects.

The programme's distinctive combination of philosophy and art history offers a unique perspective on understanding human creativity, visual culture, and philosophical ideas, fostering well-rounded, insightful individuals equipped to engage thoughtfully with complex cultural issues and artistic practices in a global context.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The first year includes several introductory lecture courses, which provide a foundation for later studies. The programme covers political philosophy, examining questions about the state, liberty and laws; moral philosophy, questioning distinctions of right and wrong, and our motivation for choosing between the two; epistemology which investigates the nature of knowledge and belief; metaphysics, which attempts to grasp the nature of things; and logic, which imparts principles of sound reasoning.

You will study Philosophy and History of Art on an equal basis.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A total of 18 points in three higher level subjects, with no score below 5.

Tuition fees for the Philosophy and History of Art program at University College London vary depending on the student’s domicile and the year of entry. For home (UK) students, the annual tuition fee is approximately £9,250. International students pay higher fees, with the current rate set at around £20,340 per year. These figures are subject to change annually and may be updated by the university in line with inflation and institutional policy.

Financial support options include a range of scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered directly by University College London. The UCL Undergraduate Bursary provides non-repayable financial assistance based on household income, which can help offset living and tuition costs for eligible students. Additionally, there are a number of subject-specific scholarships available for students studying Philosophy and History of Art, including merit-based awards and need-based awards, which are competitive and require application or a separate eligibility assessment.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities, such as government student loans, sponsored grants from arts and humanities organizations, and private scholarships. The UK government offers student loans that can cover tuition fees and may also provide maintenance loans for living expenses, which are repayable after graduation once earning above a certain income threshold.

Living costs in London should also be factored into financial planning. Students typically budget for accommodation, transportation, textbooks, supplies, and personal expenses. UCL’s location in central London provides many accommodation options, from university halls to private rentals, with costs varying significantly depending on the type and location. On average, students might expect to spend between £1,200 and £1,600 per month on living expenses.

Part-time work is a common way for students to supplement their income. UCL offers career services and job boards where students can find part-time employment opportunities suitable for their schedules. Additionally, work placements and internships related to Philosophy and History of Art may be available, offering not only financial benefits but also valuable professional experience.

In summary, while tuition fees are a primary cost, students should also plan for living expenses and consider applying for scholarships and other financial aids to support their studies at UCL. The university provides comprehensive guidance and resources for prospective and current students to navigate financial planning and funding options effectively.

The Philosophy and History of Art program at University College London offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that combines the study of philosophical ideas with the historical development of visual arts. This program is designed to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical skills, and aesthetic appreciation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of philosophical inquiry and artistic expression. The curriculum includes modules that explore major philosophical movements, theories of art and aesthetics, as well as the history of visual arts from ancient to contemporary periods. Students engage with seminal texts and artworks, learning to analyze and interpret complex ideas and visual materials.

The program encourages critical reflection on themes such as the nature of beauty, the definition of art, and the ethical implications of aesthetic experiences. It also examines the influence of philosophical thought on artistic production and reception across different cultures and historical periods. The teaching combines lectures, seminars, and practical analysis, often involving visits to galleries and museums to enhance understanding through direct engagement with artworks.

Students participating in the program develop skills that are valuable in diverse career fields, including art criticism, museum and gallery curating, education, research, and academia. UCL provides excellent resources for study, with access to vast collections of artworks and robust academic support. The program is suitable for students with interests in both philosophical inquiry and visual culture, offering them an intellectually stimulating environment to explore fundamental questions about art and human experience. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or careers that require a nuanced understanding of visual and philosophical topics, fostering an informed appreciation of the arts and their philosophical contexts.