Art History & Visual Cultures
This diploma will equip you with the knowledge and critical skills to understand the part that art, architecture and design have played in everyday life.
| Award Name | Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 4 years
Full time – 2 years
Time limit – 12 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you'll need to succeed. If you're not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
Study of the arts and humanities requires an understanding of human activities in diverse cultural environments and historical contexts. The breadth of study and range of cultural texts and objects analysed, combined with clear thinking and communication, make the Diploma of Higher Education in Art History and Visual Cultures relevant to a wide range of careers, including:
• creative and cultural industries
• education
• museums, art galleries and other art institutions
• public administration, local government, the civil service, and social services
• advertising, journalism, publishing, and public relations
• legal work
• business, banking and retail
• human resources
• charities and campaigning.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
This diploma will equip you with the knowledge and critical skills to understand the part that art, architecture and design have played in everyday life. You will discover the ways that images, environments and artefacts communicate meaning and value through being looked at and handled in both past and present. You will explore the power of images to influence debates, both historically and in the present day, and develop transferable skills in visual literacy, critical thinking and communication.
This diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• You’ll start Stage 1 with a broad introduction to the arts and humanities followed by a module that'll develop your knowledge of cultures throughout history.
• Next, at Stage 2, you’ll study art history and visual cultures from prehistory to the present.
Key features of the course
• Explore images, artefacts and architecture from a broad range of periods and places.
• Become aware of different approaches to studying art, design and material culture.
• Gain skills in visual literacy, criticism, analysis and communication that will make you highly employable.
• Reflect on your own learning with the support of a tutor.
A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this diploma of higher education is also equivalent to the first two thirds of the BA (Honours) Art History and Cultures (R27).
Stage 1 (120 credits)
• Discovering the arts and humanities (A111)
• Cultures (A112)
Stage 2 (120 credits)
• Art and life before 1800 (A237)
• Art and visual cultures in the modern world (A236)
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.