12 Best Art Universities in the UK in 2024!

Ever dreamt of turning your artistic passion into a career? You might be the next Van Goughs! 

With the creative industries contributing £115.9 billion to the UK economy in 2019, the importance of art education cannot be underestimated. The UK boasts a vibrant art scene, and its universities are renowned for nurturing artistic talent. The best art schools in UK not only offer top-tier education but also offer unparalleled exposure to some of the world’s most influential art galleries and museums. So, grab your paintbrush because we're about to unveil the 12 best art schools in UK for 2024! 

12 Best Art Schools in UK

We've curated a vibrant palette of the best art universities in UK, each offering a unique blend of courses and artistic inspiration. Whether you’re interested in fine arts, digital media, sculpture, or any other artistic discipline, these institutions offer the best art courses in UK. Here is a list of the best art schools in UK in 2024.

1. Royal College of Art (RCA)

Location: Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2EU, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #1
Notable Alumni: Frank Bowling & Margaret Calvert 
Tuition and Fees: Varies by course, but tuition and fees for 2024 for the MFA in Arts and Humanities are - UK: £16,550; International: £38,600
Entry Requirements: Quality of proposal and practice and readiness to undertake a research degree

The Royal College of Art (RCA) earned the prestigious title of the world's best art school in England according to the 2020 QS World University ranking. One of the best art schools in the UK, it was established in 1837 and has been active for 187 years now! This best art university in UK offers MA, MPhil, and PhD degrees across twenty-four subjects within six schools: Architecture, Communication, Design, Fine Art, Humanities, and Materials. 

Courses Offered:
1. MA in Service Design
2. MA in Architecture
3. MA in Animation
4. MA in Design Products
5. MPhil/Ph.D. in Communication

Key Features: 

• New campus in Battersea offers top-notch facilities.
• Hosts art and design programs.
• Houses research centres in Intelligent Mobility, Robotics, and Material Futures.
• Home to the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design and Innovation.
• Marks the college's shift to a STEAM-focused postgraduate university.
• Represents the college's most significant campus development.

2. University of the Arts London (UAL)

Location: 272 High Holborn, London, Greater London, WC1V 7EY, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #2‍
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: £28,570
Notable Alumni: Bonnie Wright, Florence Welch
Entry Requirements: At least 1 year’s study at an overseas higher education university, minimum 3.0 GPA, English proficiency test

The University of the Arts London is ranked as one of the best art universities in UK. Established in 1986, the college has been running for 38 years! One of the best art schools in London, the university comprises six distinguished colleges: Camberwell College of Arts, Central Saint Martins, Chelsea College of Arts, London College of Communication, London College of Fashion, and Wimbledon College of Arts. The top art university in UK has nine art and design schools that offer pre-degree, undergraduate, postgraduate, and short courses in 18 subjects.

Courses Offered:
1. BA Culture, Criticism and Curation
2. BA Technical Arts for Theatre and Performance
3. MA in Animation
4. MA in Textile Design
5. MSc in Cosmetic Science 

Key Features:

• The teaching staff includes professional artists, practitioners, designers, critics, and theorists who are experts in their fields.
• Graduates excel in creative industries globally, with many becoming leaders and over half of all Turner Prize nominees being alumni.

3. The Ruskin School of Art (Oxford University)

Location: 74 High St, Oxford OX1 4BG, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #97
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: £38,550
Notable Alumni: Kiera Bennett & Alice Bowe
Entry Requirements: Three grade As at A-level or equivalent

Established in 1871, The Ruskin School of Art College has been one of the best art schools in UK for 153 years! The best art universities in UK have a three-year BFA program that focuses on studio-based learning to help students for a career as artists. This UK art school is a part of Oxford University. Getting into Oxford is a huge accomplishment, and the journey becomes even more rewarding with the opportunity of Oxford scholarships. 

Courses Offered‍:
1. The Ruskin MFA degree
2. The Ruskin BFA degree|
3. DPhil

Key Features:

• A degree from this top-tier university opens numerous opportunities.
• With about 130 students, Ruskin offers a close-knit setting along with the benefits of a prestigious university.
• Collaborates with Oxford’s Department of the History of Art, School of Anatomy, Department of Engineering Science, Institute of Archaeology, Ashmolean Museum, Pitt Rivers Museum, and Modern Art Oxford providing students with diverse opportunities for exhibitions, performances, and screenings.

4. University College London

Location: Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #49
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: varies by course, for an example Fine Art, BA is £35,000
Notable Alumni: Mahatma Gandhi & Christopher Nolan
Entry Requirements: Grade 4 or higher in English language and Mathematics, a portfolio of work

The fantastic Slade School of Art at University College London is an art university in England that welcomes talented artists to enhance their skills in painting, sculpture, and various fine arts like film and photography. Founded in 1871, this is one of the best art colleges in London England, and has been serving students for 153 years! UCL's art and design university ranking UK was 6th in the 2024 Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide. Being one of the best art universities in UK, they offer amazing art degrees. Apart from studies, you can also take your time off from the college premises and enjoy quiet self-time or banter with friends at the best cafes in London.

Courses Offered:
1. BA Fine Art 
2. BFA Fine Art 
3. MA Fine Art 
4. MFA Fine Art 

Key Features:

• Slade School of Art specialises in Fine Art with two undergraduate programs - the BFA (three-year) and BA (four-year) courses.
• UCL's curriculum adapts to contemporary art demands, fostering critical and conceptual skills for success.
• Situated in central London, the school offers access to top art galleries and museums, enriching students' engagement with contemporary art.

5. Glasgow School of Art

Location:167 Renfrew St, Glasgow G3 6RQ, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #11
Tuition and Fees: Scotland: £1,820; Rest of UK: £9,250; International: £21,360
Notable Alumni: Mary Parsons Reid Allan & Joe Allen
Entry Requirements: Completed online application form, digital portfolio, statement of intent, evidence of academic qualifications, academic references, English proficiency test, & copy of passport

Having one of the highest art universities UK rankings, The Glasgow School of Art is known as one of the best art school in UK. It provides excellent teaching and research, helping students succeed for 179 years. One of the top fine art universities UK, it encompasses five distinct Schools: Fine Art, Design, Innovation, Simulation & Visualisation, and the Mackintosh School of Architecture. However, if you are worried about being in an unknown city, surrounded by new faces, eager to explore but unsure where to start, that's where Glasgow city guide comes to your rescue. 

Courses Offered:
1. Environmental Art/Sculpture 
2. Painting/Printmaking
3. Photography 
4. Design Innovation and Interaction Design

Key Features:

• GSA is in one of Britain's coolest cultural hubs, more affordable than London and Edinburgh.
• Largest art and design research community in Scotland with a high academic reputation.
• GSA has over 75 academic partnerships globally, facilitating staff and student exchanges.
• Includes Turner Prize winners like Richard Wright, Martin Boyce, Simon Starling, and Charlotte Prodger.

6. Goldsmiths, University of London

Location: 8 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #18
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: varied by degree programme, maximum £25,820
Notable Alumni: Steve McQueen & Ali Smith
Entry Requirements: Completion of three A-levels, international baccalaureate, or equivalent qualification, portfolio of work, IELTS score of 6.5, & English proficiency

The University of Goldsmiths in London is home to a renowned Department of Art, known for being one of the top art schools in England since 1891. This top art university in UK features 20 academic departments, offering both postgraduate and undergraduate degrees. Students can explore a range of fields, including the arts, humanities, social sciences, computing, and business management. 

Courses Offered:
1. BA Fine Art
2. BA Fine Art & History of Art
3. BA Fine Art (Extension Degree)
4. BSc Digital Arts Computing

Key Features:

• Access to studio space and industry-standard workshops with the latest laser cutting and 3D modeling technology.
• Opportunity to work on live briefs set by real-life companies, developing ideas and presenting to design professionals for valuable experience and insight.
• Graduates have excellent prospects, working for top London design consultancies and major international brands like Dyson, LEGO, Google, and Burberry.

7. Newcastle University

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #151-200
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: £24,700
Notable Alumni: Rowan Atkinson & Sir Graham Wylie
Entry Requirements: Qualifications of A/AS levels, international baccalaureate, or Cambridge Pre-U & English language requirements

Newcastle University's School of Art and Culture is known as one of the best art schools in UK. This top art university in UK is also famous for offering highly-ranked programs and degrees to the students for the past 61 years. This top art university in UK  is known as the 2nd best in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2022, the 3rd best by the Complete University Guide 2022, and the 3rd best by the Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022. There are three faculties: the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, the Faculty of Medical Sciences, and the Faculty of Science, Agriculture, and Engineering. 

Courses Offered:
1. Contemporary and Popular Music
2. Film and Media BA Honours, Journalism
3. Media and Culture

Key Features:

• Newcastle University's city-centre campus offers top-notch facilities, including excellent workshops and studio spaces.
• Students, from undergraduate to postgraduate, benefit from support by skilled technicians.
• Visiting Artists Programme enhances learning with superb guest artists.
• Hatton Gallery and the University's Institute for Creative Arts Practice provide interdisciplinary opportunities.
• Institute for Creative Arts Practice supports creative practice and interdisciplinary collaboration across the university.

8. Loughborough University

Location: Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #27
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: £23,000
Notable Alumni: Bridget Riley & Lynn Chadwick
Entry Requirements: Qualifications of A/AS levels, international baccalaureate, or Cambridge Pre-U & English language requirements

Loughborough University's School of Arts, English, and Drama is one of the top art schools in the UK. Established in 1909, this top art university in UK offers a wide range of courses, in 19 different schools and departments. Its modern, diverse, and inclusive learning environment allows students to showcase their artistic talent and work at various hubs and centres. 

Courses Offered:
1. Animation for Health and Wellbeing
2. Drama BA (Hons) degree
3. English and Drama BA (Hons)
4. MSc in Digital Creative Media

Key Features: 

• All Creative Arts undergraduates can include a work placement or study abroad year, which helps explore career paths, network, and broaden cultural horizons. Recent placements include Mondelez, The Walt Disney Company, H&M, Suzie Turner, The MTC, and Debenhams.
• State-of-the-art Creative Hubs offer industry-standard production possibilities and professional training. Facilities include Creative Digital Technologies and Photography, Print, Dye, Weave, Stitch and Digital Embroidery, Wood, Metal, Plastics, Laser, and 3D Printing, Painting and Printmaking, and Ceramics and Mould Making.
• Loughborough encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to collaborate across departments and explore diverse approaches to art and design work.

9. Lancaster University

Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #51
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: £23,750
Notable Alumni: Ruth Boumphrey, Kath Durrant
Entry Requirements: A Level ABB, IELTS 6.5 overall, portfolio of work, international baccalaureate, & BTEC Distinction

Lancaster University is also one of the best art schools in UK for the past 60 years. Offering some of the best art courses in UK, students learn about various art forms like painting, drawing, digital art, and sculpture. There are nine colleges in total, whether students live on campus or commute. The professors and academics are not just teachers but also active artists with recognised work globally. The university also ensures that the students get top-notch education with various job opportunities. 

Courses Offered:
1. MA, Arts Management 
2. MA, Film Studies 
3. MA, Design Management

Key Features: 

• Lancaster excels in fine art, offering students a chance to merge Fine Art Practice with Art History/Theory at a high level.
• Lancaster’s design program emphasises innovative applications, taught by leading researchers, and extends beyond traditional graphic or product design.
• Lancaster Institute for the Contemporary Arts provides interdisciplinary modules, helping students develop relevant skills and knowledge across both art and design.

10. Edinburgh College of Art

Location: 74 Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9DF, United Kingdom
QS Ranking: #27
Tuition and Fees: Scotland: £1,820; Rest of UK: £9,250; International: £34,800
Notable Alumni: William Andrews & Shehzad Afzal
Entry Requirements: SQA Highers, A Levels ABB, portfolio of work, & English proficiency

Edinburgh University, established in 1583 is one of the best art schools in UK. A part of it, the Edinburgh College of Art is one of the best design colleges in UK. Students from all over the world come to join its community of diverse and active artists. Its academic structure is based on three Colleges containing a total of 21 Schools. This top art university in UK provides some of the best art courses in UK, including art studio work, personal tutoring, lectures, seminars, and discussions. 

Courses Offered:

1. Fine Art – MA (Hons)
2. Intermedia – BA (Hons)
3. Painting – BA (Hons)
4. Sculpture – BA (Hons)

Key Features:

• Provides faculties in Animation studios, digital film editing suites, fashion workshops, foundry, and casting rooms, jewellery and silversmithing workshops, painting studios, printmaking suites, performance costume workshops, sculpture court.
• Degrees awarded by the University of Edinburgh, part of the prestigious Russell Group, and internationally recognised (ranked 22 - QS World Rankings 2024).

11. Falmouth University

Location: Falmouth Campus, Woodlane, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 4RH
QS Ranking: #101
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250; International: £17,950
Notable Alumni: Ben Howard, Neil Harbisson
Entry Requirements: English language proficiency & country-wise requirements 

If you are looking for the best art schools in England, Falmouth can be your top destination! For over 122 years, they have been nurturing creative minds. Imagine creating art alongside inspiring peers, experimenting in a supportive environment, and building connections that last a lifetime! That is what Falmouth, one of the best art schools in England, is famous for.

Courses Offered:
1. Drawing BA(Hons)
2. Illustration BA(Hons)
3. Sustainable Product Design BA(Hons)
4. Textile Design BA(Hons)

Key Features:

• Two campuses with professionally designed and continually invested spaces, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for success.
• Arts programs at Falmouth Campus in a subtropical garden, offering studios and workshops that promote experimentation, innovation, and critical dialogue.
• Opportunities to tackle live briefs from real clients, work for in-house agencies, and hear from sector leaders through guest lectures.

12. Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)

Location: Wallisdown, Poole BH12 5HH
QS Ranking: #801
Tuition and Fees: UK: £9,250’ International: £18,950 (£19,950 for Animation, Costume, Film, Model Making, Performance Design and Film Costume)
Notable Alumni: Nick Park & Danny Boyle
Entry Requirements: Portfolio of work, personal statement, & English language proficiency

Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is one of the top art schools in the UK, featuring 2 campuses. They have focused on you since 1883, with modern facilities, passionate teachers, and a supportive environment to help you become the best artist you can be. Isn't it time to turn your artistic dreams into reality?

Courses Offered:
1. Animation Production BA(Hons)
2. Costume BA(Hons)
3. Curation, Exhibition and Experience Design BA(Hons)

Key Features:

• A rapidly growing creative and digital hub in Europe.
• Supports over 7,500 digital jobs and contributes £340 million+ to the UK economy.
• Offers exceptional industry-standard facilities.
• Faculties include drawing studios, dance studios, printmaking room, workshops, and Innovation Studio.
• Showcases global artists' and designers' work for inspiration.

Why Study Art in the UK?

The top art schools in UK enjoy a long-standing reputation for producing acclaimed artists and designers. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose to study art from the best art universities in UK!

1. Rich Artistic Heritage: The UK has a storied artistic history, with influential artists, writers, and musicians who have shaped global culture. Studying here allows you to immerse yourself in this rich heritage.
2. World-Class Institutions: The UK boasts top art schools in UK that consistently rank among the best globally.
3. Industry Connections: Many top art schools in England have strong ties to the creative industry. You’ll benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and networking opportunities with professionals in your field.
4. Multicultural Exposure: Studying art in the UK exposes you to a multicultural environment. You’ll interact with students from diverse backgrounds, fostering creativity and broadening your perspective.
5. Access to Museums and Galleries: The UK is home to iconic institutions like the Tate Modern, the British Museum, and the National Gallery. As a student, you’ll have discounted or free access to these cultural treasures.

‍Eligibility Criteria of the Best Art Schools in UK  

Apart from being very good at expressing themselves through art & having deep knowledge about colour theory, composition, shadow & lights, the best art schools in England have some general prerequisites set in line. These are:

1. Academic Qualifications

Most of the best art schools UK look for students with a good academic track record. This typically involves meeting the minimum entry requirements based on high school grades or equivalent qualifications.

2. Portfolio

A strong portfolio is crucial for admission to art programs. Your portfolio showcases your artistic skills, creativity, and potential. It should include a variety of your best artwork across different mediums.

3. Personal Statement

Art schools often require a personal statement where you explain your passion for art, your artistic journey, and your goals. Be sure to highlight your motivation, relevant experiences, and what you hope to achieve through your studies.

4. English Language Proficiency Test

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency through an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL. The best art universities in UK sets their minimum score requirements.

We hope you got detailed insights into the best art schools in UK and the opportunities they give to students who want to be artists or designers. So, don't wait! Begin your path to an art career today by applying to one of the best art universities in UK.