Birmingham City University features dedicated schools for Architecture and Design, Art, Fashion and Textiles, Jewellery, Media and Visual Communication. Birmingham School of Art is located in the heart of the city’s thriving cultural quarter, alongside the Library of Birmingham, and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
During this module you will develop and demonstrate imaginative and flexible approaches to different art and design techniques. You will develop your ideas within the creative studio environment.
This module is assessed entirely through the production of a portfolio.
Critical Thinking*
You will be introduced to the basic fundamentals of critical thinking. You will learn how to examine and comment on components of an argument, so that you can develop a structured and analytical response.
You will be assessed via a variety of methods: three 1-hour tests in class, and one 2-hour closed book exam.
Extended Media Experimentation
You will explore your own ideas while experimenting with processes and techniques and discovering the characteristics and properties of selected media.
You will be assessed through three pieces of coursework:
A report of research, experimentation and application
A self-reflective journal
The presentation of your work
Information Research, Recording and Responding In Art & Design
During this module you will learn how to undertake in-depth research, while exploring many ways to record your findings. You will also discover how to respond to problems, enabling you to develop your skills, self-confidence and studio practice.
There will be three pieces of coursework:
A personal statement of intent
A final research journal, made up of weekly submissions
A final portfolio of art, design and media work – including statements of self-reflection
Interactive Learning Skills and Communication*
Throughout this module you will learn about:
Time management
Public speaking techniques
Listening skills
Appropriate language styles
Clear writing techniques (plain English, factual and persuasive writing)
The importance of writing style
How to create appropriate and effective document layouts
Professional communication and presentation
Examination techniques and skills
How to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences
How to work effectively as a team member and as an individual
How to apply basic research and referencing techniques to formulate reasoned academic opinion so as to avoid plagiarism
You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:
A research project – referencing a topic and using a variety of techniques and resources
An individual presentation
Two group presentations
A listening assessment
A 2-hour closed book exam
Interactive Learning Skills and Communication & Preparation and Progression in Art and Design
During this module you will learn about:
Techniques and strategies to manage speech anxiety
Enhancing your grammar and vocabulary
How to think critically under pressure
How to research and deliver logical and persuasive communication in a variety of formats
Understanding cultural and gender differences
Methods for planning, preparing and producing a major art and design project
Preparing for exhibition
You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:
An individual presentation on intent and planning of the final major art project
The project itself (40%)
Exhibition and presentation of the project
Knowledge & Understanding Of Creative Practice In Art & Design
You will develop an understanding of contemporary, cultural, social and historical contexts in art and design. This will help you develop your creative practice and make informed decisions about your pathway choices.
You will be assessed through three pieces of coursework:
A research project around contextual influences on art and design practice (50%)
A group presentation
A self-reflective log
Mass Communication*
This module will introduce you to the core concepts and principles relevant to mass communications – including some of the major theories.
There will be three pieces of coursework:
A close analysis of the film Fight Club
An analysis of an advertisement from a magazine or newspaper
A group presentation
Media Experimentation in Art and Design
You will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of media – experimenting with both traditional and contemporary processes and techniques. You will gain an understanding of the potential and limitations of media, using critical review and reflection in the planning and development of your own ideas.
You will be assessed through your log of experiments and research, and your portfolio of experimental work.
Personal Combined Experimental Studies In Art & Design
During this module you will learn about:
Exploring and reviewing a range of skills, materials, processes and techniques
Reviewing and reflecting on your own work
Challenging previous thoughts, ideas and beliefs
Health and safety requirements
Record-keeping
You will be assessed through three pieces of coursework:
A group project around problem-solving, research, experimentation and selection of materials
An individual presentation
A log of experimentation
* Additional four modules in the three semester programme.
Stage 2: First Year Degree
Stage 3: Second Year Degree
Stage 4: Final Year Degree
Birmingham City University Degree Pathways
Click below for more information on each pathway
BA (Hons) Art and Design
You will have the freedom to pursue their particular interest – whether it be photography, installation, print, digital media, sculpture, illustration, textiles, graphic design or three-dimensional design.
Graduates have previously showcased their work at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
Work experience placements have led to employment with companies including BBC, Cadbury, Channel 4, Saatchi & Saatchi, and TBWA Worldwide. Find out more
BA (Hons) Fine Art
This course is based in Birmingham School of Art – a Grade I listed Venetian Gothic building with original stained glass windows and mosaic floors.
There are no set pathways to learning, so students have genuine freedom to experiment in any media appropriate to their ideas – painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, photography, installation or film and video.
You will benefit from the University’s close links with the Ikon Gallery, Ort Gallery, New Art Gallery Walsall, and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Find out more
BA (Hons) Graphic Communication
The Faculty of Arts, Design and Media runs an in-house agency that will prepare you for entering the world of design.
Cultural trips are planned* for exhibitions and museums in London, Berlin and New York, and students will engage with live project briefs with companies such as NHS, The Times and Saatchi & Saatchi.
Former students have gone on to work in roles such as Creative Director and Graphic Designer. Find out more *This would incur an additional cost
BA (Hons) Illustration
The course is professionally accredited by Creative Skillset.
There will be opportunities to exhibit at high-profile London graduate shows.
Former students have gone on to work in roles such as Art Director, Buyer, Illustrator and Designer. Find out more
BA (Hons) Photography
The course is professionally accredited by Creative Skillset.
You will be learning in The Parkside Building – part of the City Centre Campus – which is fully equipped with photography studios and darkrooms.
You will learn from tutors with international reputations and a wealth of industry experience, having worked for clients such as the BBC, the Brit Awards, Adidas, Hyundai, Marie Claire, Microsoft and the Royal Opera House. Find out more
BA (Hons) Product and Furniture Design
There will be the opportunity to go on cultural trips abroad – to destinations including Barcelona and New York*!
Former students have also benefited from international collaboration opportunities, such as working with international packaging company Tri-Wall for an exhibition in Hong Kong.
You will have the chance to join the Faculty’s student-led Society of 3D Design. Find out more *This would incur an additional cost
All students accessing the 3D workshops, plaster room, glass room, water-jet cutting room and the kiln room will need to wear safety footwear that has toe caps. Such footwear can be purchased from any safety footwear provider – including Sports Direct – and can be as cheap as £12. The shoes should be S1P and comply with EN 20345.
There is no long-term storage facility for personal items in the workshops, so students are advised to bring the safety footwear with them each day they are accessing the workshops.
Special entry requirements
Students entering the two-semester Foundation must produce a portfolio.
Students without an academic qualification in Art and Design must submit a portfolio.