Studying your postgraduate degree with us soon? If you’re eager to get a head start with your studies, have a look below at the different tips and resources of things you can start using right now to prepare for the course that awaits you.
Research
First and foremost, we highly recommend you formulate a career plan if you haven’t started one already. Like all plans, things may change over time, but it is important to have an idea at this stage of what your ultimate goal is.
Did you start your studies to become a fine artist? More interested in being a motion graphics artist and designer? Or perhaps you want to improve your skills in art management? Whatever you intend to do, like most creative jobs, there is more than one way of making it in this industry – research what pathways or options you have and consider what feels best for you. Be sure to pay attention to appropriate accreditations needed to progress in your chosen area.
We also recommend you have a look at our Birmingham School of Art blog to view the latest news regarding our faculty, staff, students and more.
Watch
If you’re looking for some relaxation whilst still seeking out ways to get inspired by art and design, streaming services are a great way to achieve this. ‘Abstract: the Art of Design’, ‘Grayson’s Art Club’ and ‘Made by Design’ are just a few shows available to watch now that will allow you to gain a critical eye for all things art and design related.
Our BCU YouTube Channel features several art and design related videos with information on the course and which will give you an idea of what the course is like from a student perspective.
Explore
As a student of at our Institute of Creative Arts, you’re going to want to be surrounded by different forms of inspiration as much as possible. Luckily for you, Birmingham City University, and more specifically, the School of Art and Design, is at the heart of the city centre, meaning there is plenty of things you can see and explore that are right on our doorstep. Digbeth is only a hop, skip and a jump away, putting you at a great place to access an art scene bursting with life. Take a sketchbook and some crayons, or your preferred choice of media, and capture the liveliness that Birmingham emits.
Visit
You can gain a lot from visiting our postgraduate open days. Upon arrival, you will be able to look around the facilities we have on offer, as well as speak to our expert members of staff, giving you the opportunity to get to know who will be teaching you, and to have answers to any burning questions you have regarding your course.
Network and follow
Setting up a professional social media account will be extremely beneficial for those who want to work in the art industry. Not only will it allow you to showcase your work, it also means you can network with people alike and keep up to date with industry professionals.
Don't forget to give our '10 Art Instagram Accounts You Should Be Following' blog a read too!
You can keep up to date with all information from your course by giving the School of Art Instagram page a follow. Our BCU Instagram account is a great way to keep up to date with all things BCU and any relevant news on a regular basis.