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History of Art

History of Art at Corpus Fact File

Typical offer: A*AA in A Levels (or equivalent)

Required subjects: None

Typical number of History of Art undergraduates admitted per year: 1-2

Submitted wrriten work requirements: See our Written Work webpage 

Admissions assessment: College-registered assessment

History of Art at Cambridge

The course offers a wide range of options. Part I combines the general development of studying the History of Art first-hand, often through objects in and around Cambridge, with courses on the Making and Meaning of Art & Architecture. In Part II, our Special Subjects range from the art, architecture and theory of Medieval and Renaissance Europe to the Modern period. The Tripos makes full use of the University's resources: in order that students become familiar with Cambridge's unique collections of art and its fine architecture, some of the teaching takes place in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Kettle's Yard and the Colleges. To supplement the classes given by members of staff, there are stimulating guest lectures by well-known scholars. Throughout the course students are encouraged to develop their visual, analytical and literary skills.

Why study History of Art at Corpus?

The Department of History of Art, which is part of the University’s Faculty of Architecture and History of Art, is a five-minute walk away from Corpus Christi College. The University's Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses a major collection of artworks from many periods and cultures, is also nearby, which is extremely convenient for Corpus undergraduates.

Another big attraction for art historians at Corpus is the famous Parker Library, home to ancient books and manuscripts such as the early fourteenth-century Peterborough Psalter. The College owns many such examples of illuminated manuscripts, which tell an important story in the development of art in medieval Britain.

What do we look for in applicants?

We look for applicants who demonstrate not only intellectual potential but who also have a keen visual sensitivity. In addition, we look for clear evidence of enthusiasm and motivation for the subject.

The Director of Studies in History of Art has no special preference with regard to the A Levels taken by potential art historians; Modern Languages, Classics, History, History of Art and English are all useful subjects but not essential.

Super-curricular resources