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History of Art

Courses tab icon About the course Course outline Entrance requirements How to apply

All candidates must follow the application procedure as shown in how to apply.  The information below gives specific details for students applying for this course.

Written work 

Applicants are asked to submit two pieces of written work by 11 November 2013. The first is a marked essay of up to 2000 words from an A-level or equivalent course. This will demonstrate ability to construct a sustained written argument. The second is a response, written in no more than 750 words, to a piece of art, architecture or design. Applicants should have first hand access to their chosen object, of which if possible they should include a photograph or photocopy. Applicants may focus, as they wish, on the material, and/or the design, and/or the subject of their image. No special preparation or research is required. The 750 word response should demonstrate curiosity, sensitivity and clarity in response to the chosen object and visual culture more generally.

See further guidance on the submission of written work.

Written tests 

You do not need to take a written test when you apply for this course.

What are tutors looking for?

Candidates should show evidence of lively engagement with culture, both contemporary and historical. Prior knowledge of the history of art is absolutely not a requirement: many successful applicants have never studied the subject before university. What is looked for in applicants is a keen and critical observation of art and of the material environment in general. At interview, candidates are invited to demonstrate willingness to engage in focused discussion and debate about visual issues, and in addition to respond to one or more photographs of unfamiliar images (which applicants will not be expected to recognise).

Selection criteria

Candidates may wish to refer to the selection criteria for History of Art.

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