Arts and Science courses

About History Of Art - Arts (ba (hons)) in University College Cork

History of Art, with its emphasis on visual analysis and critical thinking, is a vital discipline in a world dominated by images, where the primary vehicle of culture is visual. Despite this, many people feel ill at ease with visual information and do not understand the way in which images make an impact and produce meaning. The study of History of Art will enable you to:

• think analytically and write persuasively
• build your own criteria for making value judgements
• understand the art intervenes in the social, political, psychological, and philosophical contexts from which it emerges

The course will provide you with a firm foundation on which to build an understanding of the visual culture and physical environment of modern-day Ireland, set within both its European and wider global contexts.

In Year 1 you will cover the history and theory associated with the major phases of western art and architecture – from classical antiquity to the present – and examine the critical concepts that underpin the culture of the visual arts in the west. It is an exciting and stimulating course that teaches you to use your eyes, to ask questions, and to have confidence in your critical judgments.

In Years 2 and 3 you will build on that knowledge with a series of historically and thematically specific classes, allowing you to consider material in more detail and to perfect your skills in visual literacy.

History of Art offers the chance for students to view original work of art in cities such as Paris, Berlin, Florence, London, Rome and New York. A series of study trips provide the exciting opportunity to travel abroad to study artworks, together with your fellow students and lecturers, and constitute a crucial part of the learning process.

Key facts

• We organise study trips to such cities as Amsterdam, Berlin, Florence, London, Paris and Rome, giving you the chance to experience some extraordinary art collections, and to enjoy a few days away together as a group
• UCC is an ideal place to study history of art because it is supported by the award-winning facilities of the Glucksman Gallery on campus, by institutions such as the Crawford Art Gallery and the National Sculpture Factory in Cork City, and by the energetic artistic community that sustains them

Placement or Study Abroad Information

Study abroad

If you study through the BA International, you will spend Year 3 studying at one of our partner universities abroad.  We currently have links with universities in the following countries: Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Lithuania, The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden Mexico, and the USA.

Work placement

If you study through the BA or the BA International, you will have the opportunity to avail of a work placement in Year 2. You can find out more here.

Skills and Careers Information

A BA in History of Art guarantees visual literacy combined with fluent verbal and written skills, may lead to an international career in:

• journalism, media and film
• design and fashion
• advertising and public relations
• heritage industry and cultural tourism
• information technology and web design
• arts administration
• art market, auction houses and antiques consultancy work
• museum and gallery work
• teaching and research

Academic qualification equivalents

 1.    All India Senior School Certificate 

 2.    Higher Secondary Certificate / Standard 12 

 3.    Indian School Certificate (Year 12) 

Band 1 Programmes

Minimum average of 90% + in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 2 Programmes

Minimum average of 80-89% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Band 3 Programmes

Minimum average of 75-79% in any of the recognised secondary school qualifications.

Additional Requirements

Where Maths is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% in Maths is required.

Where a Lab Science subject is required for a specific degree programme, a minimum score of 85% is required in the appropriate Lab Science subject.

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS: 6.5  Minimum individual sections 5.5
• TOEFL: TOEFL 90  Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing 17
• PTE: 63 Minimum individual sections 51

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