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Fine Art Painting at University of Brighton - UCAS

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Course summary

A Brighton Fine Art Painting degree prepares you for a variety of rewarding creative career paths, including roles such as professional artist, curator, gallery owner and art consultant. Art and Design at Brighton is ranked in the top 20 in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Studying here at Brighton, you’ll be part of a community that helps you grow, no matter what your background. This course is packed with opportunities to build real-world experience, including a paid placement after year two. Our inclusive approach to learning will help you go further and explore who you are as a creative; we’ll make sure you play to your strengths and learn in ways that suit you best. Top reasons to choose this course

  • There is no house style – we believe that to develop as a painter you must be unafraid of taking risks and be willing to learn through both failure and success.
  • Our lecturers are practising painters who bring their skills and experience to your learning.
  • You will have your own dedicated studio space where you can explore your creativity and collaborate with your peers.
  • You will have regular opportunities to present your work to peers and staff in a supportive environment.
  • Push creative boundaries through an open, exploratory approach that encourages experimentation and innovation.
  • Boost your CV with an optional paid placement year to apply your learning in a real-world setting.
  • We have strong links with local arts communities who provide volunteer and employment opportunities.
Why Brighton is a great place to study Fine Art Painting Brighton is a city with creativity at its heart, making it the perfect setting to study Fine Art Painting. From independent studios to large galleries and design festivals, the city offers endless inspiration and opportunities to engage with the creative community. Our long heritage in art and design education means you’ll be part of a diverse network of creatives, with access to exhibitions and industry connections that extend beyond the campus. Living and studying here gives you the chance to explore new ideas in a supportive, open-minded city known for its culture, innovation and craft. Named one of the best cities on the planet and third best city in the UK by Time Out, Brighton is also a bustling hub for music, media and fashion.

Modules

Year 1 You will develop your ability to produce self-directed work through studio practice which emphasises experimentation and risk-taking in a supportive environment. Workshops cover the technical essentials of painting and different contexts of art. Core modules Introducing Studio Practice Developing an Independent Practice Methods and Materials Theories and Practices of Fine Art: Introduction to Global Art Histories and Art Writing Year 2 You’ll develop your own body of work and exhibit it publicly, gaining experience in exhibition practices. You’ll learn to experiment with new materials and techniques, reflect on your work and present it confidently. You will also explore the wider cultural and theoretical contexts of fine art, including perspectives beyond Eurocentric Western traditions. Core modules Studio and Public Exhibition Practices Professional Development Theories and Practices of Fine Art: Contexts and Specialisms Optional placement year An optional placement year gives you the chance to apply your skills in a professional setting, gain industry experience and build valuable contacts before returning for your final year. Final year You’ll create a professional body of work to exhibit in our public Graduate Show and write a research essay that explores and defines your practice. You’ll also take part in professional development sessions covering topics such as self-employment, project management, networking and career planning. Core modules Studio Practice 5: Reflection and Experimentation Theories and Practice of Fine Art: Articulation of Your Critical Position Studio Practice and Final Exhibition


How to apply

Application codes

Course code:
W120
Institution code:
B72
Campus name:
Brighton
Campus code:
B

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1
  • Year 2

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

Additional entry requirements

Portfolio


English language requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)66.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5. in each element, or equivalent English Language qualification.

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students
55%
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
80%
Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £9535 Year 1
Northern Ireland £9535 Year 1
Scotland £9535 Year 1
Wales £9535 Year 1
Channel Islands £9535 Year 1
Republic of Ireland £9535 Year 1
EU £17250 Year 1
International £17250 Year 1

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

The fees listed in the table above are for full-time UK undergraduate students in academic year 2025-26. You will pay further fees in each year of your course. Fees may increase each year. UK undergraduate and certain postgraduate fees are regulated by the UK government. The annual fee increase will not exceed the UK government's maximum regulated tuition fee limit set for the relevant academic year. Many of our courses include the option of a salaried placement year. Tuition fees for a placement year are charged at a lower rate of £1850. The international tuition fees listed above are for full-time courses during the academic year 2025-26. Further tuition fees are payable in each year of study. Non-regulated tuition fees, which usually apply to international students and UK postgraduate students* are subject to an annual increase of a maximum of 5% or the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), whichever is higher. *Some designated postgraduate courses are regulated by the UK government – the annual fee increase for eligible UK / Home students on these designated courses will not exceed the UK government’s regulated tuition fee limit set for the relevant academic year.
Fine Art Painting at University of Brighton - UCAS