Study Arts in the UK – Affordable & Career-Focused Degrees

Are you or your students interested in earning a degree in the arts? Last week, The UK Study Expert hosted a webinar along with 5 top UK arts universities discussing why earning your art degree in the UK compared to the US is a far better investment and choice. We discussed the UK’s growing economy, cost differences, graduate employability and more.

The following universities were represented:

Falmouth University

Goldsmiths University of London

Leeds Arts University

Arts University Bournemouth

Ravensbourne University

Below, we break down why studying arts in the UK as an American can provide many benefits:

1. Enhance your artistic skills and knowledge: The UK is renowned for its arts education, and studying here can help you develop your artistic skills and knowledge. You can learn from renowned artists and scholars, participate in workshops, and gain hands-on experience through internships and other practical opportunities.
2. Three year bachelor’s degrees: These represented arts universities are based in England, therefore, their degrees are only 3 years long. Students are able to specialize in their declared subject from day 1 and are not required to take any general education classes. This allows the student to save an additional year of expenses, advance their career quicker, and allows them to specialize in the subject they are most passionate in.
3. Affordable and competitive compared to US universities: The average tuition to study at an US arts university can range from $40,000 to $55,000 per year. Studying in the UK is a fraction of the price. The average cost of tuition from the following represented universities is $21,000 per year, plus it is a three year bachelor’s degree, which saves a student an additional year of tuition and living expenses.
4. Expand your career prospects: Studying arts in the UK can open up many career opportunities, both in the UK and around the world. The creative economy contributed £116 billion in gross value added (GVA) to the UK economy in 2019, greater than the aerospace, automotive, life sciences, oil, and gas sectors combined. Students who wish to stay in the UK after they graduate, can apply for the Graduate Route Visa, which allows students to work for up to two years after they graduate. Students have the opportunity to network with industry professionals, showcase your work in exhibitions, and gain exposure to different artistic fields and disciplines.
5. Exposure to different cultural perspectives: Studying in the UK can provide you with a unique opportunity to experience a new culture and broaden your worldview. You will have the chance to interact with people from different backgrounds, learn about their perspectives, and gain a deeper understanding of their values and traditions.
6. Study abroad experience: Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, and the UK offers an excellent opportunity for American students to live and study in a foreign country. You can improve your language skills, gain independence, and develop cultural competencies that can benefit you throughout your life.

Overall, studying arts in the UK as an American can provide a unique and rewarding experience that can help students grow both personally and professionally.