History of Decorative Art and Crafts

If you are fascinated by designed objects and curious to find out why they look the way they do, you can find out by studying the history of decorative arts and crafts. You will discover outstanding examples of the decorative arts in Brighton's Royal Pavilion and Art Gallery just opposite our Grand Parade campus. Specialist staff will encourage you to develop an understanding of the ways in these objects reflect changing ideas, tastes and values through the ways in which they are made, bought and used.

Course structure

The course is structured around a series of core modules, seminar-based options, special subjects, team-based projects and individual research projects. You will build up a core knowledge of the history of the decorative arts whilst also having the opportunity to develop your own specialist areas of interest through a wide choice of option courses.

You will benefit from our productive relationships with local museums, including student placements, and and from the university's links with the Victoria and Albert Museum. We have unique research resources for students and staff in the Design Archives and Screen Archive South East. A thriving and international research culture ensures that you will have the opportunity to learn from a wide range of visiting makers, researchers and writers.

Career and progression opportunities

The course has a healthy employment record; many of our graduates take up careers in museums, galleries, arts administration, auction houses, journalism, publishing and education. Others study for further professional qualifications or postgraduate degrees, including our own History of Design and Material Culture MA.

Mode of Attendance : Full - time