Methods in Art History' introduces you to the diversity of approaches to the interpretation of art objects, taught in five sections each led by a different tutor. In 'Making and Meaning' you develop an understanding both of the material nature of works of art and architecture, and of the themes which have been central to much western art from classical to modern times. In the Second Year, at least two further art history options will be taken. A third option can be in another department. History of Art students have taken courses in Practical Art, Aesthetics, Film Studies, English and Law.
All students study Italian as a preparation for the Venice term.
The acquisition of a second foreign language enhances employment prospects. In the Third Year, after spending the first term in Venice, the finalist writes an 8,000 word dissertation and studies a Special Subject. The former will be on a subject of particular interest to the student, the latter based around the current research interests of the lecturers. These are intensive courses, taught in small groups, and this last part of the degree programme provides the satisfaction of doing art-historical research of real depth. While university life should be enjoyable, many students are rightly concerned about what kinds of careers they might follow on graduating.