Art History degrees
Develop the critical and analytical skills and techniques required to analyse visual works with an Art History and Visual Culture degree from the University of Exeter, using artefacts and first-hand source material to inform your studies.
Study Art History and Visual Culture at the University of Exeter
Art History & Visual Culture at Exeter, based in the Department of Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies, is an exciting area of study which explores both the history of art and more recent ideas of the visual – extending the analysis of visual forms from the historical right through to areas of modern and contemporary practice.
You will explore the principles underpinning the history of art and visual culture, with an awareness of the ways in which painting, sculpture and architecture, photography and other modern visual media can be considered in relation to their cultural and historical contexts.
Through innovative research and teaching we aim to develop and pass on the highest standards of rigour and excellence that characterise our discipline at its best.
Our Art History degrees and courses
Our courses are taught on our Streatham Campus in Exeter.
Undergraduate degrees
Masters degrees
Related subjects
You can search a full list of subject areas taught at the University of Exeter.
Top 15 for History of Art, Architecture and Design
The Guardian University Guide 2026
Top 10 in the Russell Group for student satisfaction in all seven themes
National Student Survey 2025: Art History and Visual Culture
Wide variety of techniques and approaches to learning, including opportunities for study in the field at galleries and museums
The University of Exeter is 155th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 170th in the THE World Rankings 2026
Frequently asked questions about studying Art History
We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if an Art History and Visual Cultures degree is right for you.
What career prospects would I have with an Art History degree from Exeter?
Studying Art History and Visual Culture develops your ability to interpret art and cultural practices, while building transferable skills in analysis, research, critique, and creativity—opening doors to a wide range of careers across diverse fields.
Art History and Visual Culture graduates from Exeter commonly work in the following sectors:
- Business Operations and Management
- Creative Industries and Performing Arts
- Education and Teaching
- Heritage and Culture
- Marketing, Publishing and Journalism
Find out more about your future career with a degree in art history.
Can international students apply to study Art History and Visual Culture at Exeter?
Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.
For more information, visit our international students webpages.
"The breadth of specialism amongst the lecturers is phenomenal. The size of the course has actually been one of the most enjoyable elements of the degree as it enables you to get to know everybody and fosters a great environment that makes you feel at ease very soon after starting at university."
"Having studied Art History at A-Level, I came to my degree expecting a very traditional course, focusing on old masters, and European works. The variety of module choices, despite being challenging, is something to be welcomed and contrasts with the more conventional course I had originally expected."
Alicia
BA Art History & Visual Culture