History of Art

Why study History of Art at Emmanuel College?

Emmanuel normally admits one History of Art undergraduate each year, which means you get the opportunity to mix with lots of different people from different disciplines in addition to receiving subject teaching. The College is also ideally located for the department building on Scroope Terrace as well as within easy reach of the city museums and art galleries.

 

How will my day be organised?

As a History of Art student you will have between one and three lectures per paper per week, as well as seminars, which take place in the department. Additionally, and especially in the first year, there are regular on-site visits to buildings and museums in Cambridge. Each paper you study will also have a weekly or fortnightly supervision, where you will prepare a piece of work (e.g. an essay, visual analysis exercise, book or exhibition review) and discuss this in small teaching groups with your supervisor. Outside of these contact hours you will be expected to be preparing for your supervisions through reading, making notes and research

 

What qualities do successful History of Art students have?

You don’t need to have studied History of Art before to be a good student, however, we are looking for students who are enthusiastic and motivated to find out more. Good History of Art students are curious about art in all mediums, periods, and places, as well as in architecture, which is a core part of the Tripos. The ability to express yourself clearly and creatively in English is a valuable skill, as prose writing is an important part of the course.

 

Where could my degree lead me?

Many students who have studied History of Art will go on to further study at Master’s or PhD level. Other students choose to gain employment in the creative and arts sector including roles in museums, galleries and design. However, even if they do not decide to go into a role directly linked to art, many of our students develop successful careers in other fields.