A degree in Art History not only prepares you for a career in the art world but also equips you with intellectual and practical skills applicable to many spheres of employment.
In our image-saturated world, understanding the power of images and having the skills to interpret and analyse them can lead to a satisfying career in a variety of industries.
Studying Art History at Manchester will provide you with the chance to gain practical experience, and students can gain placements across Manchester, including at the Whitworth, the University’s art gallery, and further afield.
Our recent graduates have gone on to pursue a variety of careers in fields such as law, banking, fashion, advertising, accountancy, business management, commerce, new media, computing, and archive studies.
- Recent graduate career destinations include:
- Education Officer, De Morgan Collection;
- Royal Collections Exhibitions Curator;
- Archivist, Tate Liverpool;
- Art Officer, English Heritage.
- The creative economy accounts for 1 in 11 jobs across the UK and employs 700,000 more people than the financial services industry (Creative Industries Federation).
The University of Manchester is the second most targeted university in the UK for top graduate employers (High Fliers Research, 2025).
Our award-winning careers service provides a wealth of tools, advice, development opportunities and industry links. You’ll have access to dedicated, subject-specific support throughout your studies and for up to two years after graduation.
Our undergraduate courses are also designed to provide an easy transition into postgraduate study if desired. We offer a wide range of specialist master’s courses within the University and fast-tracked enrolment to high-achieving undergraduate students.
You can also take part in the University’s Stellify programme alongside your degree, developing professional and leadership skills while contributing to local and global communities through volunteering.
