Fine Art

Fine art is the practice of making objects, images, and experiences that engage the imagination, question assumptions, and open up new ways of seeing the world. A fine art degree is not simply a training in technical skills, though it develops those, but an immersive encounter with the full scope of artistic practice: working across media and materials, responding to ideas and influences, developing a distinctive personal vision, and learning to articulate and defend your creative choices with critical intelligence. This three-year full-time degree at the University of Derby includes a foundation year, a sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and embedded work placement experience, and its tutors are described as highly respected and internationally renowned practitioners.

You will develop your individual artistic practice in the university's modern studios, experimenting with media, materials, and ideas across a wide range of disciplines. The programme encourages genuine exploration, pushing you to take creative risks and develop your own voice under the guidance of tutors who bring both artistic expertise and educational commitment. Critical and theoretical study runs alongside studio practice, helping you understand the broader contexts in which your work sits and developing your ability to engage with art history, contemporary criticism, and the ideas that animate current artistic debates.

The placement year and year abroad give you the opportunity to engage with professional artistic environments and international contexts that enrich your practice.

An entry tariff of 104 UCAS points reflects an accessible admissions standard that prioritises artistic potential. Graduates from fine art programmes pursue careers as practising artists, arts administrators, curators, gallery educators, community arts practitioners, art therapists, and in design, illustration, and visual communication. Many continue to postgraduate study in fine art, curatorial practice, or arts management.