Which universities suit a graduate in Arts applying to the UK?

If you are specifically aiming for a January 2027 start, your choices narrow considerably, since January intakes run far thinner than September ones for traditional Arts subjects like English Literature, History, or Political Science. That makes picking the right course, not just a well-ranked university, the deciding factor.

Queen Mary vs Westminster vs Portsmouth vs ARU

Matching the University to Your Arts Background

• English or Literature background: Queen Mary, Westminster, Birkbeck, or Portsmouth all fit directly.
• History, Political Science, or Sociology background: Queen Mary, Portsmouth, Sussex, or Birkbeck are strongest.
• Fine Arts or Visual Arts background: Westminster or Anglia Ruskin fit best.
• Considering a career pivot away from Arts: Queen Mary's pre-masters route toward management, international relations, or linguistics is worth investigating.

This Information Is Also Available On

Queen Mary University of London's January 2027 start page; University of Westminster's MA Art and Visual Culture programme page; University of Portsmouth's January courses page; Anglia Ruskin University's Arts, Creative and Media postgraduate page.

My Advice

Do not wait until December to apply for a January intake. Application volumes spike and visa processing needs lead time too, so I would have your shortlist and personal statement ready at least 8 to 10 weeks before the course deadline. If your Arts degree does not directly match your target masters, look seriously at Queen Mary's Graduate Diploma bridge instead of forcing a direct application.