Top Art Universities In The UK – A Guide

From crafting expressive artwork to pioneering industry-altering designs, art graduates possess the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the world. These programmes give transferable skills such as effective communication and innovative thinking. Some of the top art universities in the UK produce high earnings with master’s and bachelor’s degrees. Whether you prioritise location, entry requirements, student satisfaction, or career prospects, you can find all in these universities. 

The following article will provide a list of top art universities in the UK based on their reputation and ranking that will help you start your career!

List Of Top Art Universities In The UK

Students must ensure they select the top colleges that offer complete education. The colleges mentioned in the following list are highly recommended and have a good reputation with regard to ranking. Check them out here:

University	QS Ranking	Notable Alumni	Courses Offered
Royal College of Art (RCA)	#1	Frank Bowling, Margaret Calvert	MA in Service Design, MA in Architecture, MA in Animation, MA in Design Products, MPhil/Ph.D. in Communication
University of the Arts London (UAL)	#2	Bonnie Wright, Florence Welch	BA in Culture, Criticism and Curation, BA in Technical Arts for Theatre and Performance, MA in Animation, MA in Textile Design, MSc in Cosmetic Science
The Ruskin School of Art (Oxford University)	#97	Kiera Bennett, Alice Bowe	The Ruskin MFA degree, The Ruskin BFA degree, DPhil
University College London	#49	Mahatma Gandhi, Christopher Nolan	BA Fine Art, BFA Fine Art, MA Fine Art, MFA Fine Art
Glasgow School of Art	#11	Mary Parsons Reid Allan, Joe Allen	Environmental Art/Sculpture, Painting/Printmaking, Photography, Design Innovation and Interaction Design
Goldsmiths University of London	#18	Steve McQueen, Ali Smith	BA Fine Art, BA Fine Art & History of Art, BA Fine Art (Extension Degree), BSc Digital Arts Computing
Newcastle University	#151-200	Rowan Atkinson, Sir Graham Wylie	Contemporary and Popular Music, Film and Media BA Honours, Journalism, Media and Culture
Loughborough University	#27	Bridget Riley, Lynn Chadwick	Animation for Health and Wellbeing, Drama BA (Hons) degree, English and Drama BA (Hons), MSc in Digital Creative Media
Lancaster University	#51-100	Ruth Boumphrey, Kath Durrant	MA, Arts Management, MA, Film Studies, MA, Design Management
Edinburgh College of Art	#51-100	William Andrews, Shehzad Afzal	Fine Art – MA (Hons), Intermedia – BA (Hons), Painting – BA (Hons), Sculpture – BA (Hons)
Falmouth University	#151-200	Ben Howard, Neil Harbisson	Drawing BA(Hons), Illustration BA(Hons), Sustainable Product Design BA(Hons), Textile Design BA(Hons)
Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)	801–1000th	Nick Park, Danny Boyle	Animation Production BA(Hons), Costume BA(Hons), Curation, Exhibition and Experience Design BA(Hons)

Detailed Understanding Of Top Art Universities In The UK

While choosing a college or university, one must consider the rankings, average fees, and location. Below, you will find all of this information compiled for better understanding of the art universities in the UK: 

Royal College Of Art (RCA)

Image Source: Royal College Of Art 

The Royal College of Art (RCA) was honoured by the QS World University Rankings in 2023 as the world’s top art and design university. It is also known as one of the most challenging art schools to gain admission to in the UK. Graduating with distinction from its programmes can lead to further academic opportunities, such as MA or MRes programmes in specific disciplines.

• Location: Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2EU, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #1
• Notable Alumni: Frank Bowling, Margaret Calvert 

Courses Offered:

• MA in Service Design
• MA in Architecture
• MA in Animation
• MA in Design Products
• MPhil/Ph.D. in Communication

University Of The Arts London (UAL)

Image Source: UAL

The University of the Arts London is recognised as one of the leading art universities in the UK. In 2022, it received a silver award from the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). This institution comprises nine art and design schools, providing pre-degree, undergraduate, postgraduate, and short courses across 18 subjects.

• Location: 272 High Holborn, London, Greater London, WC1V 7EY, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #2‍
• Notable Alumni: Bonnie Wright, Florence Welch

Courses Offered:

• BA Culture, Criticism and Curation
• BA Technical Arts for Theatre and Performance
• MA in Animation
• MA in Textile Design
• MSc in Cosmetic Science 

The Ruskin School of Art (Oxford University)

The Ruskin School of Art, one of the premier art universities in the UK, offers a three-year BFA programme emphasising studio-based learning to prepare students for artistic careers. Graduates can pursue professions as art writers, art teachers, or practising artists. As the Department of Fine Art at the University of Oxford it is part of Oxford’s Humanities Division. Gaining admission to Oxford is a significant achievement, made even more rewarding by the availability of Oxford scholarships.

• Location: 74 High St, Oxford OX1 4BG, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #97
• Notable Alumni: Kiera Bennett, Alice Bowe

Courses Offered‍:

• The Ruskin MFA degree
• The Ruskin BFA degree
• DPhil

University College London

The prestigious Slade School of Fine Art at University College London welcomes talented artists to refine their skills in painting, sculpture, and various fine arts, including film and photography. As a leading art university in the UK, it provides outstanding art degrees. 

• Location: Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #49
• Average Fees: £9,000 – £25,000/Semester 
• Notable Alumni: Mahatma Gandhi, Christopher Nolan.

Courses Offered:

• BA Fine Art 
• BFA Fine Art 
• MA Fine Art 
• MFA Fine Art 

Glasgow School of Art

The Glasgow School of Art is recognised as one of the top art universities in the UK. It offers outstanding teaching and research training that supports students’ academic and artistic success. It provides some of the best art courses in the UK, allowing students to hone their skills and realise their creative visions. 

• Location: 167 Renfrew St, Glasgow G3 6RQ, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #11
• Average fees: £10,000 – £20,000/Semester 
• Notable Alumni: Mary Parsons, Reid Allan, Joe Allen

Courses Offered:

• Environmental Art/Sculpture 
• Painting/Printmaking
• Photography 
• Design Innovation and Interaction Design

Goldsmiths University of London

The University of Goldsmiths in London hosts a prestigious Department of Art, recognised as one of the leading art universities in the UK. This art school provides a supportive and nurturing environment that allows students to excel and fully engage in their studies. The Department of Art offers excellent courses to help students discover and develop their hidden talents.

• Location: 8 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #18
• Average fees: £12,000 – £18,000/Semester 
• Notable Alumni: Steve McQueen, Ali Smith

Courses Offered:

• BA Fine Art
• BA Fine Art & History of Art
• BA Fine Art (Extension Degree)
• BSc Digital Arts Computing

Newcastle University

Newcastle University’s School of Art and Culture is recognised as one of the leading art universities in the UK, renowned for its highly-ranked programmes and degrees. According to the Guardian University Guide 2023, it is the second best in the UK. It ranks third best according to the Complete University Guide 2023 and the Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023.

• Location: Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #151-200
• Average fees: £9,000 – £15,000/Semester 
• Notable Alumni: Rowan Atkinson, Sir Graham Wylie

Courses Offered:

• Contemporary and Popular Music
• Film and Media BA Honours, Journalism
• Media and Culture

Loughborough University

Image source: Loughborough University

Loughborough University’s School of Arts, English, and Drama is one of the leading art universities in the UK, offering a broad spectrum of courses. With its contemporary, diverse, and inclusive atmosphere, this UK art institution provides platforms for students to exhibit their artistic talents and collaborate across multiple hubs and centres.

• Location: Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #27
• Average tuition fees: £8,000 – £30,000/Semester 
• Notable Alumni: Bridget Riley, Lynn Chadwick

Courses Offered:

• Animation for Health and Wellbeing
• Drama BA (Hons) degree
• English and Drama BA (Hons)
• MSc in Digital Creative Media.

Lancaster University

This institution ranks among the premier art universities in the UK. Students learn several art forms within its art programme, including painting, drawing, digital art, and sculpture. The faculty comprises both educators and practising artists whose work enjoys global recognition. Moreover, the university prioritises delivering exceptional education to its students.

• Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #51-100
• Average tuition fees: £8,000 – £30,000/Semester
• Notable Alumni: Ruth Boumphrey, Kath Durrant

Courses Offered:

• MA, Arts Management 
• MA, Film Studies 
• MA, Design Management

Edinburgh College Of Art

Image Source: Edinburgh College of Art

Edinburgh University is one of the leading art universities in the UK, drawing in a varied and vibrant group of artists from across the world. It provides some of the highest-quality art degrees and programmes available in the nation, with studio practice, individualised guidance, lectures, seminars, and interactive discussions. Furthermore, the university organises external workshops and events featuring internationally acclaimed artists.

• Location: 74 Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9DF, United Kingdom
• QS Ranking: #51-100
• Average tuition fees: £13,000 – £30,000/Semester 
• Notable Alumni: William Andrews, Shehzad Afzal.

Courses Offered:

• Fine Art – MA (Hons)
• Intermedia – BA (Hons)
• Painting – BA (Hons)
• Sculpture – BA (Hons)

Falmouth University

Image source: Falmouth University

If you are looking for good art universities in the UK, Falmouth can be your top destination! For over 100 years, they have been nurturing creative minds. Imagine creating art alongside inspiring peers, experimenting in a supportive environment, and building lifetime connections! 

• Location: Falmouth Campus, Woodlane, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 4RH
• QS Ranking: #151-200
• Average tuition fees: £380-£480 (per year)
• Notable Alumni: Ben Howard, Neil Harbisson

Courses Offered:

• Drawing BA(Hons)
• Illustration BA(Hons)
• Sustainable Product Design BA(Hons)
• Textile Design BA(Hons)

Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)

Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) ranks among the premier art institutions in the UK. Emphasising individual development, the university boasts contemporary amenities, dedicated faculty, and a nurturing atmosphere to foster the optimal growth of each student’s artistic potential.

• Location: Wallisdown, Poole BH12 5HH
• QS Ranking: 801–1000th
• Average tuition fees: £8,000 – £9,250 (per year)
• Notable Alumni: Nick Park, Danny Boyle

Courses Offered:

• Animation Production BA(Hons)
• Costume BA(Hons)
• Curation, Exhibition and Experience Design BA(Hons)

Why Choose To Study Art In The UK?

These top art institutions in the UK have a longstanding reputation for nurturing celebrated artists and designers. Below are compelling reasons to opt for studying art at these esteemed institutions:

1. Cultural Legacy: The UK has a rich artistic heritage shaped by influential figures across various creative domains. Studying here allows you to immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural legacy.
2. Academic Excellence: The UK is home to top-tier art schools consistently ranking among the best globally.
3. Industry Integration: Many leading UK art schools maintain good connections with the creative industry. Students benefit from industry insights, workshops, and networking opportunities with professionals.
4. Access to Cultural Institutions: With renowned museums and galleries like the Tate Modern and the British Museum, the UK offers students discounted or free access to these cultural treasures, enriching their educational experience.

Eligibility Requirements For Top Art Universities In The UK

In addition to proficiency in artistic expression and knowledge of fundamental concepts like colour theory and composition, admission to the premier art universities in the UK entails meeting specific eligibility criteria:

1. Academic Background: Most reputable art universities in the UK seek applicants with a strong academic track record, typically based on high school grades or equivalent qualifications.
2. Portfolio Submission: A compelling portfolio showcasing artistic skills, creativity, and versatility is crucial for admission to art programmes.
3. Personal Statement: Art schools typically require a personal statement wherein applicants articulate their passion for art, artistic journey, and career aspirations, highlighting their motivation and relevant experiences.
4. Language Proficiency: Demonstrating proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL is essential for non-native English speakers, with each university stipulating its own minimum score requirements.

FAQs

1. What is the No. 1 art university in the UK?

The best art school in the UK might change depending on the year and different ranking methods; however, schools like the Royal College of Art and University of the Arts London frequently maintain the top spot.

2. Where is the best place to study art in the UK?

Depending on your preferences and the particular art subject you’re interested in, London, Glasgow, and Edinburgh are some of the top cities in the UK to study art.

3. What are some of the top art universities in the UK?

Some of the top art universities in the UK include Edinburgh College of Art, University for the Creative Arts, Glasgow School of Art, Manchester School of Art, and Loughborough University. These universities offer a range of fine art, design, and performing arts courses at various degree levels.

4. Why should I study arts in the UK?

Studying the arts in the UK provides possibilities for networking and cooperation in the creative sector, access to famous institutions, exposure to a variety of cultural experiences, and exposure to international artistic trends.

5. Is art school free in the UK?

Although tuition costs are frequently associated with higher education in the UK, scholarship opportunities and financial assistance programmes are available for art students. Even while most education is not entirely free, assistance is available.

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