Program Overview

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Fine Art (BA)

Award

 Bachelor of Arts 

Typical Offer

 BBB 

BBB

Duration

 3 years 

Course Type

 Full-time 

Campus

 Winchester 

UCAS Course code

 W190 

About this course

This contemporary fine art programme offers a welcoming and supportive environment designed with students in mind. Its interdisciplinary approach blends critical theory with hands-on practice, building both contextual understanding and technical expertise across a variety of creative forms.

Explore a range of creative disciplines and specialise in the areas that inspire you, such as:

• painting
• sculpture
• printmaking
• installation
• performance
• lens-based work (photography and video)
• digital techniques

You'll gain transferable skills to support your creative practice, along with the tools to develop and communicate your ideas effectively. Whether you aspire to work as a professional artist, join the creative industries, or pursue postgraduate study, this course will prepare you for success in your chosen path.

As part of the BA Fine Art course, you will:

• develop your creative, critical thinking and technical skills
• participate in Shared Drive projects, which bring together students from all years of study to participate in collective projects
• be able to choose a studio that meets your artistic needs

Year Abroad

In-between your second and third year of study, you may be able to study overseas for a year at one of our partner institutions, developing your knowledge and skills across the subject area and expanding your cultural appreciation. You will be able to select from modules available at your selected institution and will be supported by our Winchester School of Art staff before and throughout the year.

Entry requirements

A-levels

Our standard offer is BBB at A-level or equivalent qualification, we also consider grades of comparable value and offer on these taking into account the suitability of the portfolio submission for the intended course.

A-levels additional information

A Level offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.

A-levels with Extended Project Qualification

If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: BBC and grade A in the EPQ.

A-levels contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Pass, with 30 points overall with 15 points at Higher Level

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

BTEC

RQF BTEC

Distinction, Distinction, Merit in the BTEC National Extended Diploma in an art or design based subject Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Diploma plus B in an A level Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus BB in two A levels

QCF BTEC

Distinction, Distinction, Merit in the BTEC Extended Diploma in an art or design based subject. Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC Diploma plus B in an A level Distinction in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus BB in two A levels

Access to HE Diploma

60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 24 must be at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit

Irish Leaving Certificate

Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)

H2 H2 H3 H3 H3 H3

Scottish Qualification

Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.

Cambridge Pre-U

M2 M2 M2 in three principal subjects

Welsh Baccalaureate

BBB from 3 A levels or BB from two A levels and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate

T Level

Not accepted for this course.

Other requirements

• UK students
• International students
• Other ways to qualify

GCSE requirements

Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you must show that you can use English to the level we require. Visit our English language pages to find out which qualifications we accept and how you can meet our requirements.

If you are taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), you must get at least the following scores:

• overall score: 6.5
• reading: 6.0
• writing: 6.0
• speaking: 6.0
• listening: 6.0

Non-academic entry requirements

All applicants will need to provide a portfolio of art work

Course structure

You’ll study 6 studio practice modules which form the heart of the course. You'll also study modules that frame the context for your developing practice in terms of history, theory and professional application.

Year 1 overview

In Semester 1, you’ll begin with a structured introduction designed to help you settle into studio practice. Then, in the Shared Drive project, you'll work with students in their second and third year of the course, fostering collaboration and building a sense of community. A series of technical workshops will introduce or reinforce essential artistic skills.

During Semester 2, you'll continue with the technical workshops, supporting your exploration of new methods and encouraging greater experimentation in your practice. Modules on the theoretical and cultural contexts of art will provide an introduction to the discipline’s historical and theoretical foundations. Through general overviews and a case-study project, you’ll explore connections between art and broader visual culture, shaping your understanding of the field.

Year 2 overview

Alongside your individual studio work, you’ll collaborate with other year groups in the Shared Drive project and take part in smaller group projects. These will involve research and input from other University disciplines and students from different programmes.

In Semester 2, you’ll focus on developing your unique artistic style and building on earlier technical experiments in self-directed studio work. You’ll explore areas like public art, community projects, and the artist’s role in society. You’ll research and connect cultural references to shape a focus for your practice.

Year 3 overview

At the start of the first semester, you’ll take a leadership role in the Shared Drive project. Following this, you’ll focus on intense, self-directed studio work to refine your visual identity and prepare for the final major project. Studio discussions will cover presentation and display.

In the theoretical and cultural contexts module, you’ll choose a project centred on a single artist, artwork or group of artworks. Lectures will guide you to develop deep knowledge, practical insights, and a thorough understanding of your subject.

For the final major project, you’ll create and present a focused piece in a public-facing exhibition and the year-end Degree Show. Alongside studio work, you’ll research and critically reflect on your project to resolve issues and plan your next steps. This critical reflection can be assessed as a written report, video, or live presentation.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

• Year 1
• Year 2
• Year 3

Year 1 modules

You must study the following modules in year 1:

Contested Terrains

The module brings together a range of ideas, subject-matter and methods of making, to expand understanding of the scope and potential of contemporary art practice. There is an emphasis on engagement with issues.

Myth, Illusion and The Virtual

The module brings together a range of ideas, subject-matter and methods of making, as an introduction to the scope and potential of contemporary art practice. There is an emphasis on phenomena.

Studio Practice 1A

The practical scope and possibilities of contemporary fine art, the use of materials and techniques in the development of ideas, and the role of intellectual engagement in creative practice.

Studio Practice 1B

Further discoveries of materials and techniques; more challenging approaches to intellectual content in studio practice; and preparation for self-direction in Part 2.

Year 2 modules

You must study the following modules in year 2:

WSA Year Abroad

This non-credit bearing module is a compulsory module designed to provide support and engagement with your WSA tutors if you decide to take the option of a Year Abroad between Part 2 and Part 3 of your degree programme. Your dedicated study abroad coor...

Collaborate (Fine Art)

This is a studio practice module. Work with others across the programme and beyond as you continue experimentation towards the further development of technical knowledge, a heightened level of research and critical reflection, and the beginnings of defini...

Expanded Fields

The module brings together a range of ideas, subject-matter and methods of making, to enable a more complete understanding of the scope and potential of contemporary art practice. There is an emphasis on the outward-looking, the large-scale and the expans...

Invisible Objects

The module brings together a range of ideas, subject-matter and methods of making, to open up deeper understanding of the scope and potential of contemporary art practice. There is an emphasis on non-traditional media, encompassing performance and the dig...

Studio Practice 2B

The module brings together a range of ideas, subject-matter and methods of making, to open up deeper understanding of the scope and potential of contemporary art practice. There is an emphasis on non-traditional media, encompassing performance and the dig...

Year in Employment

The Year in Employment (YiE) is an opportunity for undergraduate students across a range of programmes to undertake a placement year whilst remaining enrolled to the University of Southampton. Students complete their placement after their second year of s...

Year 3 modules

You must study the following modules in year 3:

Final Major Project (BAFA)

Bring together your practical learning in a single, self-directed, fully- resolved exhibition outcome which is well presented and articulate.

Framing your project

The module brings together a range of ideas, subject-matter and methods of making, to enable a more complete understanding of the scope and potential of contemporary art practice. There is an emphasis on the outward-looking, the large-scale and the expans...

Professional Planning (Fine Art)

Develop the skills needed as a professional artist beyond the studio, engaging with the key concepts and requirements around employability and position yourself for practice and employment on completion of the programme.

Strategies of Showing

An intensive consideration of outcomes in contemporary art practice and how they are presented, with consideration of audience-relationships and analysis of effective presentation methods.

Studio Practice 3A

Continued, intensive experimentation within an increasingly defined practice which is starting to yield ambitious, professionally organised and audience- oriented outcomes.

Learning and assessment

The learning activities for this course include the following:

• lectures
• classes and tutorials

Course time

How you'll spend your course time:

• Year 1
• Year 2
• Year 3

Year 1

Study time

Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:

37% Scheduled learning & teaching

63% Independent learning

How we'll assess you

• creative projects
• essays
• individual and group projects
• portfolios

Your assessment breakdown

Year 1:

100% Coursework

Year 2

Study time

Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:

31% Scheduled learning & teaching

69% Independent learning

How we'll assess you

• creative projects
• essays
• individual and group projects
• portfolios

Your assessment breakdown

Year 2:

100% Coursework

Year 3

Study time

Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:

29% Scheduled learning & teaching

71% Independent learning

How we'll assess you

• creative projects
• essays
• individual and group projects
• portfolios

Your assessment breakdown

Year 3:

100% Coursework

Academic support

You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.

Course leader

John Gillett is the course leader.

Careers and employability

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Read more

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV and interview skills and workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,535.
• EU and international students pay £23,400.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.

Find out how to:

• pay your tuition fees
• calculate your student finances

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

• accommodation costs
• living costs
• budgeting advice
• fees, charges, and expenses regulations

Bursaries, scholarships and other funding

If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £36,200 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.

If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.

Get in touch for advice about student money matters.

Scholarships and grants

You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.

We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

When you apply use:

• UCAS course code: W190
• UCAS institution code: S27

Apply for this course

What happens after you apply?

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• predicted grades
• academic achievements
• personal statement
• academic reference

Applicants will receive an invitation to submit their portfolio whilst their academic qualifications are being reviewed.

Portfolio guidance

Your portfolio is one of the most important parts of your application. It is your opportunity to show us your work, and our opportunity to find out more about you. You may not have presented your work before, so here is some guidance with preparing your portfolio.

What do you want to see in my portfolio?

Your portfolio is a chance to show us your work and tell us more about yourself, so make sure it demonstrates a lively, inventive approach to the development of course projects and personally directed work.

Sketchbooks are an important means of showing the development and range of your ideas. A sketchbook should be filled with ideas, even if they are not all fully‐developed. Where appropriate, sketchbooks can show the development of ideas from initial notes and sketches to finished pieces. Your statement should also include evidence of exhibitions visited and your thoughts about them.

We are interested in your understanding of contemporary art and artists in the context of the wider art world. You can include a small number of sketches and drawings of exhibitions in your digital portfolio.

The work in your portfolio should be carefully selected. Try to order your work so that ideas flow from one piece to the next as this will show us your critical ability. A portfolio should demonstrate independent thinking and the ability to explore personal interests, even when responding to set briefs. A range of work and approaches is important, as it shows a lively and experimental approach.

How many pieces should I include?

We would suggest a maximum of 25 pieces of work, including sketchbooks. A well‐edited selection of your work can often tell a more coherent story than trying to include everything. We will need to see evidence of course projects and self‐directed artwork. Your work should have been produced within the past twelve months. Earlier work can be included if it is particularly relevant to your interests and development.

Information for Mature students

We understand that mature students may not have work that is structured in the same way as A-Level or Foundation students. We are, however, still interested in seeing self-initiated work, including sketchbooks and finished pieces. We also understand that some applicants may wish to include work that is over a year old – but make sure that you include as much recent work as possible in your portfolio.

Top tip

Tailor your portfolio to the course you are applying to. Investigate the Fine Art programme thoroughly before making your selection for your portfolio. Remember that courses with the same name at different universities can vary greatly.

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