BA (Hons) in History of Art and Architecture, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin

Dublin, Leinster

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The History of Art and Architecture course at Trinity College Dublin is centered around studying images, objects, and buildings, helping students develop high levels of visual literacy. It explores why works of art appear as they do and what they reveal about the societies that created them. The course emphasizes skills in visual analysis, critical assessment, and communication. It is ideal for those who enjoy examining paintings, sculpture, architecture, and delving into both historical and contemporary meanings within visual culture. No prior knowledge of art history or practical art skills is needed; the program is designed to provide an accessible yet comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is highly recommended for those interested in museums, galleries, architectural heritage, and visual culture, offering a strong foundation in documenting and analysing artworks and buildings. Trinity’s rich collections and proximity to Dublin’s museums and galleries, including the Douglas Hyde Gallery, create a practical learning environment that enhances theoretical knowledge. The course also prepares students for careers in academia, curating, editing, writing, and even fields like marketing and journalism, highlighting its versatility and the value of visual literacy in diverse professional settings.

Specialisation

The course covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the history of painting, sculpture, and architecture from antiquity to modern times. Students can choose from modules like early medieval art, global art histories, Islamic and Japanese art, Italian Renaissance art, 19th-century French art, and modern and contemporary art. In the later years, there are opportunities to specialise further in areas such as Irish art, early modern portraiture, and themes like gender and identity. The program allows for a focused exploration of specific interests in art and architecture through optional modules and research projects.

Course fees

Application fees

19.34L

1st year tuition fees

19.34L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Students can pursue this degree as a Single Honours, Major with Minor, or Joint Honours. It offers pathways that can include a New Minor Subject in second year. The program involves coursework, examinations, and a Capstone research project, with opportunities for study trips, work placements, and primary source analysis, especially in later years.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

DUOLINGO

120

TOEFL

PTE

Career prospects

Graduates have gone on to roles as lecturers, curators, editors, and writers in institutions such as the National Gallery of Ireland, Irish Museum of Modern Art, and international museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum. Many have also worked in publishing, art sales, academia, and media, with skills in visual analysis and interpretation highly valued in marketing, public relations, and journalism.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Applicants must meet the English language requirement of Band B (Standard Entry).

Can I study abroad as part of this course?

Yes, students may apply to spend a year abroad through the Erasmus programme or other exchange networks with universities in cities such as Berlin, Istanbul, Madrid, and more.