BA (Hons) History of Art and Museum Studies Bachelor's degree at Liverpool John Moores University
BA (Hons) History of Art and Museum Studies at LJMU combines theoretical foundations with practical application, covering core theory, research and methods, applied practice, specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills development.
About this course
Study History of Art and Museum Studies at LJMU and build art history, curatorial and museum skills. | Apply now for 2026 entry From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) History of Art and Museum Studies is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at LJMU, based in City Centre Campus. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For History graduates from this provider, 90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 60% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £23,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for History, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Moderate evidence Published sample: 50; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2021-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 90% (2021-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 85% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 6 modules
- Artists and PracticesCore20 credits
Module details
This module will outline key developments in the history of the artist. Students will examine them in the context of films, monographs and autobiography to introduce basic materials and techniques used by artists and develop an understanding of these.
- Frameworks in Art HistoryCore20 credits
Module details
This module will introduce students to the range and diversity of areas of the discipline of art history and to some of the themes of universal concern to artists from all eras.
- Introduction to Art HistoryCore20 credits
Module details
Within this module students will explore art and design works and themes in a chronological context. Simultaneously students will examine the social contexts for art and design.
- An Introduction to Museums and GalleriesCore20 credits
Module details
This module will introduce the key organisational structures of museums on Merseyside to examine the changing role of museums and art galleries and explore the history and circumstances of collecting and collections.
- Collaboration with Contemporary ArtCore20 credits
Module details
Within this module, students will encounter contemporary art and artists in the north-west region, to develop an understanding and knowledge of the various organizations and roles within the industry.
- Global ArtCore20 credits
Module details
This module will expose students to a range of art made by Global artists in order to broaden knowledge and introduce students to the diversity of practices and techniques employed outside of Europe and the USA.
Year 2 8 modules
- Curating: Histories and Practices 1Core20 credits
Module details
This module will outline key museological concepts and issues to identify and explore broad critical debates relating to contemporary practices of display.
- Art and RepresentationCore20 credits
Module details
This module will outline key debates concerning the theories of representation to examine key images in their socio-political context and evaluate research materials.
- Methods in Art HistoryCore20 credits
Module details
This module will enable students to develop a knowledge and understanding of their own methodological position to explore art works from all periods of Art and Design History.
- Curating: Histories and Practices 2Core20 credits
Module details
This module provides students with practical experience of curating and with contact with curatorial specialists from within the industry. Students will also learn about the history of museums, galleries and collecting processes.
- Design HistoriesCore20 credits
Module details
This module enables students to explore design history and applied arts. Students will be informed about arts and crafts such as ceramics, furniture, jewellery and silver and will develop the facilities to analyse these subject areas critically with an understanding of the theoretical underpinnings and social environments surrounding the disciplines.
- Internship and Professional DevelopmentCore20 credits
Module details
This module will give students the knowledge needed to identify, develop and secure employment opportunities. Interview skills and presentation skills will be developed within the context of the cultural industries on Merseyside. Students will be introduced to work-based and work-related learning in an appropriate environment.
- Study Semester Abroad - History of ArtOptional60 credits
Module details
The aim is to provide students with a semester of study at an approved overseas partner that will replace one semester of their LJMU programme at level 5. This is a semester of full-time study at an approved higher education institution which will replace one semester of level 5 study at LJMU. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be an appropriate substitute for the modules being replaced. Assuming successful completion of this semester, mark-bearing credit will be award
- Study Year Abroad - History of Art and Museum StudiesOptional120 credits
Module details
This module enables the student to gain credits from another institution by undertaking a module, or combination of modules of choice at that institution.
Year 3 4 modules
- Research Project (Dissertation)Core40 credits
Module details
The Research Project is to collect, evaluate and process information within the context of specified research objectives. Students will formulate and present arguments with clarity, fluency and coherence according to the tenets of the discipline.
- Research Paper and Symposium PresentationCore40 credits
Module details
This module will identify and explore an agreed thematic topic relating to art history and museology to co-ordinate research in the context of the aims and objectives.
- Major Project PracticeCore20 credits
Module details
This module allows students to follow and develop their own personal areas of interest identified to develop the ability to plan, implement and complete a sustained piece of practical or applied research.
- Major Project Development (with the Museums Association)Core20 credits
Module details
This module allows students to follow and develop their own personal areas of interest identified to develop the ability to plan, implement and complete a sustained piece of practical or applied research.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course builds art history, curatorial and museum skills through a study of how art and objects are understood, preserved and presented. You'll usually start with foundations in the historian's craft, learning to work with sources and archives, before moving to surveys of art and history across periods. In Year 2, you'll focus on specific periods or themes through primary evidence, study how interpretations of art change over time, and explore how museums and heritage work beyond the university. By Year 3, you'll undertake advanced document-led study and choose specialist options in areas such as modern history, medieval studies, global and imperial contexts, social and cultural history, public history and heritage, or archival research. You'll complete an original research project based on primary evidence.
Who it's for
This course suits those interested in art history, museum practice, and cultural heritage. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent qualifications; the typical UCAS tariff among entrants was 112–127 points. You'll develop knowledge across art history and museum studies whilst building research, analytical, and professional capabilities relevant to heritage and cultural sectors.
Careers & job market
Nationally, 85% of History graduates were in work or further study 15 months after graduating. Of working graduates, 55% were in highly skilled roles or pursuing further study. Graduate earnings across History nationally ranged from £23,500–£31,000 at 15 months post-graduation, £20,400–£28,800 after three years, and £25,500–£36,000 after five years. These figures reflect national labour-market outcomes; individual outcomes vary. The degree is nationally recognised, equipping you for roles in museums, galleries, heritage organisations, and related fields.
University & format
Liverpool John Moores University is a public university founded in 1823, located on its City Centre Campus. This is a full-time, 3-year Bachelor's degree (BA Hons) taught in English. The university is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, so your degree is nationally recognised. It holds Silver for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 90% |
| another higher-education qualification | 5% |
| an Access course | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code VP31). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Standard capped home fee at English providers (2026/27); Scotland, Wales & NI differ.
Check fees at LJMU →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What History graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £23,000 | £20,000 – £25,000 | 50 |
| 3 years after | £20,000 | £17,000 – £24,000 | 140 |
| 5 years after | £26,000 | £21,500 – £30,500 | 150 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Moderate evidence. Published sample: 50; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2021-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in history · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs History nationally
National figures for History graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2021-23. Moderate evidence. Published sample: 50; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2021-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with History courses at the same study level.
Compared with 1,423 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Business and public service associate professionalsSOC 2020 35 · 30% of published destinations · ASHE median £38,760
- Administrative occupationsSOC 2020 41 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £27,006
- Business, Research and Administrative ProfessionalsSOC 2020 243 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £48,746
- Secretarial and related occupationsDiscover Uni category · 10% of published destinations
- Teaching and Childcare Associate ProfessionalsSOC 2020 323 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £20,261
- Sales occupationsSOC 2020 71 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £15,975
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 25; response rate: 50%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How History graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where History graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Museums & archives
- Heritage bodies
- Schools
- Civil service & media
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit History graduates.
History & Humanities Lead, Flexible, Impactful TeachingChartereastdulwichHistory & Humanities Lead, Flexible, Impactful TeachingThe Charter Schools Educational TrustHistory Teachers in Kirklees and HalifaxCV-LibraryHistory TeachersSABIS NETWORK SCHOOLSIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £23,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.6 out of 10: NSS 81.7% · in work or study 90% · continued 85%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Liverpool John Moores University
Historical, philosophical and religious studies across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around City Centre Campus
5,301 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is History right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to LJMU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is set per course by LJMU; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check LJMU’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with LJMU and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at LJMU
Common questions
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