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Study art history

The teaching and research of art history at Birkbeck was established almost half a century ago. Today, we are an internationally respected centre in this area.

When you study art history at Birkbeck, you will learn from academics whose expertise ranges from medieval European architecture through to contemporary Latin American Art. We have particular expertise in photography and museums. As well as regular gallery and museum visits, we offer an exciting study trip abroad every Spring.

Birkbeck was ranked as one of the top four universities in the UK for its Art and Design research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

Come and meet us

If you're looking to start studying with us in October 2026, or are looking ahead to 2027, join us for our Undergraduate Open Day on 7 March or our Postgraduate Open Evening on 18 March.

If you can't make these dates, or would like to visit us sooner, come along to one of our campus tours.

Quick links

Hear from students who studied the BA in History of Art with Curating

'I really wanted to learn more about curating in museums, but also do a cross-disciplinary subject with art history.' In this video students talk about the BA in History of Art with Curating, the advantages of studying in the evening and the friends they made in Birkbeck's Department of History of Art.

View art history courses

Art History at Birkbeck

Art history courses

Our courses offer you the chance to combine a focused investigation of the visual arts with the study of their connections to culture, politics and society. View all programmes.

Work placements

Some of our postgraduate courses offer work placements, so you can gain valuable practical experience of working in museums, galleries and archives.

Peltz Gallery

Our specially designed Peltz Gallery hosts guest-curated displays, small-scale performances, lectures and events.

Arts Week

Arts Week is an annual series of events showcasing the latest creativity and research from Birkbeck.

Meet our staff

"I organise work placements, and our partner institutions really value Birkbeck students because they are highly motivated and bring so much prior experience to the role." Professor Fiona Candlin

Find out more

Meet the team supporting you

Contact us

Contact us if you need specific course advice that's not available on our site or if you're a PhD student with research enquiries.

Staff list

Browse a list of the academic staff teaching you as well as the school staff who can provide help and guidance.

Open days

Come to Birkbeck and visit us in central London or watch an online campus tour.

More reasons to choose Birkbeck

Top reasons to choose Birkbeck

If you have the ability and drive to succeed, find out how Birkbeck’s study options and outstanding support can help you achieve the university education you want.

Student services

Birkbeck offers a range of services to current students, including disability support, financial support and academic support.

Student funding

Find out more about advice, support and funding opportunities for Birkbeck students at undergraduate, postgraduate and MPhil/PhD levels.

How to apply

Find out how to apply for any of our courses, including details about work experience, personal statements and supporting documents.

International students

If you're an international student wishing to study at Birkbeck, find out about our entry requirements, English language requirements and how to apply.