Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme is studio-centred and encourages exploration across traditional and contemporary media. You will be introduced to core practical disciplines—painting, drawing, sculpture, print, photography, moving image and digital approaches—alongside contextual studies in art history, theory and contemporary practice. Teaching combines practical workshops, seminars, technical demonstrations and one-to-one supervision.

The course typically follows a progressive structure across three years:

• Year 1: Foundation skills and materials-led projects, drawing and visual literacy, introduction to technical processes and group critiques. Emphasis on experimentation and developing a personal inquiry.
• Year 2: Development of medium-specific and interdisciplinary projects, deeper research into contextual and theoretical concerns, elective modules and collaborative workshops. Continued technical development and beginnings of sustained project work.
• Final Year: Major self-directed project (Final Major Project) supported by tutorials, professional practice modules (exhibition-making, curating, portfolio and business skills) and a public exhibition or online presentation. Reflective and contextual research underpin studio outcomes.

Typical module themes include studio practice, materials and making, image and representation, time-based media, critical writing and research methods, curatorial practice and professional development. Technical facilities available to students include painting and drawing studios, sculpture workshops (wood, metal, ceramics), print studios, photography and darkroom facilities, digital media labs and dedicated exhibition spaces.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate practical potential and creative thinking through a portfolio and interview in addition to academic qualifications. Typical entry routes include A-levels, BTEC (or equivalent vocational qualifications), international qualifications and recognised access courses. Mature applicants and those with non-standard qualifications are considered on the strength of their portfolio and personal statement.

Application typically requires:

• Portfolio: A carefully presented selection of recent work (physical or digital) that shows range, commitment and development of ideas.
• Interview: A portfolio review or interview (in person or online) to discuss practice, influences and intentions.
• Academic qualifications: A relevant qualification at UK upper-secondary level or equivalent; specific offers may vary and will be confirmed by the admissions team.
• English language: For international applicants, evidence of proficiency in English is normally required (e.g. a recognised test at a level appropriate for undergraduate study).

Career prospects

Graduates from Fine Art pursue a wide range of creative and cultural careers. Many continue as practicing artists, applying for studio spaces, residencies, exhibition opportunities and postgraduate art courses. Others move into roles in the wider cultural and creative sectors, including gallery and museum work, curating, arts administration, education, illustration, design, film and media production, cultural heritage and creative entrepreneurship.

The programme’s professional practice elements help students build exhibition experience, prepare portfolios, write funding applications and develop freelance and entrepreneurial skills. Oxford Brookes’ careers and enterprise services provide support for job search, networking, placements and postgraduate study guidance.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a practical, experimentally minded Fine Art programme with strong studio provision and technical support. The course benefits from a close-knit department where staff are active practitioners and researchers who provide individual supervision and critical feedback. Students have access to specialist workshops, on-campus exhibition spaces and a programme of talks, visiting artists, critiques and collaborative projects.

Located near the historic and culturally vibrant city of Oxford, the university gives students proximity to major public and private galleries, museums, artist-run spaces and a lively creative community. The course emphasises employability and professional readiness while supporting diverse artistic ambitions, from critical practice and research to public-facing cultural work.