History of Art at Cambridge

Our course covers a wide spectrum of art and architecture from all over the world, from the medieval to modern and contemporary periods. The aim is to foster a wide and deep understanding of art and architecture, and to help you develop visual literacy and awareness, as well as a range of critical and analytical skills.

A treasury of resources

There’s no substitute for looking at the real objects and we take full advantage of Cambridge’s outstanding resources, including the Fitzwilliam Museum and its conservation departments, the recently expanded galleries of Kettle's Yard, and the Colleges' architecture and art collections.

The Department’s comprehensive library houses a rich collection of books, and you have access to the University Library and the Fitzwilliam Museum’s reference library (among others) as well. During vacations, students may wish to travel to see works of art and architecture, although this is not required. College financial support is often available for this. Any core departmental trips that form part of the course - for example to museums and galleries - are funded by the Department.

After Cambridge

In a world in which visual imagery has never been more widely used or had greater currency, our graduates, with their sophisticated visual acumen, are well-equipped for a vast array of careers. Notable examples include employment in museums and galleries, the care and conservation of monuments and heritage management, fine art dealing, publishing, advertising, written and broadcast journalism and teaching.