Art Business (Level 6 | Top-up) - BA (Hons)
Currently viewing course to start in 2025/26 Entry.
This BA (Hons) Art Business (Top-Up) course is essentially about employability, providing you with the knowledge, understanding and experience needed to work effectively in the creative industries. During this (one-year full time/ two-year part time) level 6 course, you will be supported to navigate the extensive range of careers in the creative and cultural sectors....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Award BA (Hons)
- Start date September 2025
- Fees View course fees
- Subject
- Location Margaret Street
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
[00:00:11] Speaker 1 We're here today to celebrate the achievements of the Art Business students. We're going to be giving them some awards, and it's a brilliant opportunity for them to network. The BA Art Business level six top up course prepare students for a really broad range of career options. The purpose of the course is to support students with the knowledge and the skills that they need for employment and gives them the confidence to build their own tailored network.
[00:00:37] Speaker 2 I was studying Art and Design, and I decided to move over in my final year to do Arts Business. I didn't know what sector I wanted to go into, even I suppose when I started the course, the first few sessions really gave me an understanding of the terminology and the meaning of Arts Business, which really helped me then define what I wanted to do. So I actually work now in a marketing job in a fashion company. It's a lot of social media management, a lot content creation, a lot of organising the marketing basically in all areas.
[00:01:02] Speaker 3 So you can learn how to create the projects and manage the projects and still be in the creative sector, I think that really appealed to me. I'm Project Assisting an artist called Georgia Tucker, who's created a zen garden installation. Anything that she needed, she'd come to me and the Project Manager. We look after the space and answer any questions that people have. The interviewer said to me that it looked really cool that I'd done Art Business, I think it helps you to stand out too.
[00:01:31] Speaker 4 Having her on board this project's been great, like I know I c an trust her, and that's like number one thing, and I know that she understands the more business side to it. Yeah, I think it's an essential part that you need to learn about as an artist. I think a lot of artists are really talented, but they don't have the business knowledge.
[00:01:47] Speaker 5 You learn so much so quickly. It's given me enough confidence with the skills I've learned from around marketing, the financial structures of it all and it's things like copywriting, everything you wouldn't think of to begin with. I've always had a passion for music. I kind of saw it as a really good opportunity to kind of dive into that and start my own events from the first show we sold out the venue. It really couldn't have gone better.
[00:02:12] Speaker 2 The project I'm displaying is a handbook to ethical and sustainable marketing for small businesses, and it's been informed by everything we've learnt on the course.
[00:02:20] Speaker 5 And that winner is Isabella York.
[00:02:24] Speaker 1 The BA Art Business level six top up course offers a wide range of flexible application routes. You can transfer from a BA course or if you've completed an HND or a foundation degree. We also welcome applications from those who've had an alternative career experience. We value those skills and those will all be considered as part of the application process. We're really proud of the achievements of our students and we're welcoming applications for the course now.
This BA (Hons) Art Business (Top-Up) course is essentially about employability, providing you with the knowledge, understanding and experience needed to work effectively in the creative industries. During this (one-year full time/ two-year part time) level 6 course, you will be supported to navigate the extensive range of careers in the creative and cultural sectors. The course will support you to develop the professional skills needed to pursue your ambitions, and the intellectual and critical skills to challenge existing structures, in order to innovate for the future.
The course will offer a nurturing space for you to self-reflect and identify your innate skill set, developing the ability to locate the right employment routes or to generate ventures for yourself. The course provides a balance of experiential and academic study, bringing together organisations and individuals from across Birmingham’s creative industries and cultural institutions to enable live experiences and opportunities to network and cultivate relationships.
The philosophy of the course embraces entrepreneurialism, curiosity, innovation and a responsive and flexible approach to current opportunities and challenges in the employment landscape. Fostering inclusive and ethical working practices will be fundamental, considering how ‘good’ creative work can benefit individuals, their communities and the planet. Building confidence and a repertoire of flexible, responsive, adaptable and transferable skills will help to future-proof your careers.
What's covered in this course?
The course will examine the exciting relationships and intersections between creativity and management, art and business. The curriculum provides an opportunity to see tensions and emerging opportunities in the broad landscape of contemporary creative enterprise in its various forms, e.g. entrepreneurial activity, collectives, small creative businesses, not-for-profit sector, within cultural/educational institutions, etc. It will also be fundamental to discuss how societal, political and environmental shifts have important implications for those working in the creative industries, be it marketing, engagement, production or distribution. Our course aims to explore what shape, systems and structures exist, and how this affects various forms of value, the management and ‘flow’ of creative goods, and the creative process.
Located in the culturally diverse city of Birmingham in the West Midlands, the curriculum design and live experiences will reflect the needs and opportunities for the student body, creating accessible routes to employment. The course will also explore a broader picture for the creative industries, at national policy level, considering the implications for various stakeholders.
A basic understanding of intellectual property rights, and the current global market for ‘symbolic goods’, will be important to locate art business practices in a broader context. The course responds to the continuing need for industry-ready graduates and will contribute to the growing creative landscape in the locality and beyond.
The course is committed to provide a flexible learning experience to widen participation with blended teaching and learning opportunities. Curriculum and debate will have ethical working practices at the forefront, exploring relevant considerations for the creative industries around inclusivity, diversity and equality, examining precarious labour and exploring ways that various forms of enterprise can support mental health and wellbeing.
Through working on a series of projects and briefs written in consultation with external agencies and institutions, you will build up a portfolio to showcase your individual abilities. You will develop key transferable skills in creative thinking, problem solving, collaboration, leadership and strategy, project management, budgeting, marketing, communication, presentation, independent research, critical and analytical thinking skills.
It is anticipated that graduates from the course will go on to work in various contexts, for example in the museum/gallery sector, arts education and socially engaged practice, marketing, exhibitions & events management, front-of-house roles, entrepreneurial activities, arts operation & management, galleries (public and private), auction houses and art journalism.
A course…designed to equip [students] with the knowledge and understanding of how to take their practical and theoretical learning and apply it to industry and business in order to be creatively prosperous... [enabling] students to forge connections, gain live experiences, learn about structures and operations of creative businesses with a focus on creative enterprise.
Zoe Earles, Specialist Leader in Education and Head of Art and Design at Haybridge High School, Hagley
Why Choose Us?
- Birmingham School of Art is celebrating 130 years of art at Margaret Street – its Grade I-listed building, located in the heart of the Colmore Business District, and in close proximity to the city’s cultural institutions and creative hubs, e.g. Ikon gallery, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Barber Institute and the Jewellery Quarter.
- You'll instantly become part of the Faculty of Arts, Design and Media’s 6,000-strong student community, and you will be supported by our highly experienced staff, who all have experience in working in various roles across the creative industries, with a vast array of experience in the sector.
- Opportunities to take part in work placements, to network, and respond to live projects set by industry professionals, through our unique collaborations.
- Broad range of guest talks by inspiring figures from the creative industries, for example; museums and galleries, education, entrepreneurs and business leaders.
- The opportunity to engage with physical and virtual events and conferences to support and inspire your studies.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Open Day: 24 November 2024
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2025/26.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Essential requirements
240 credits equivalent following the study of a cognate design discipline at Levels 4 and 5, or HND, Foundation Degree, DipHE (or equivalent).
- Diploma in Higher Education (DipHE): Students will be required to have successfully completed both Level 4 and Level 5 in an art discipline and achieved 240 credits.
- Foundation Degree (Level 5): Students will be required to have successfully completed a Foundation Degree in an art discipline and achieved 240 credits.
- Higher National Diploma (HND): Students will be required to have successfully completed a HND in an art discipline and achieved 240 credits.
If you are an EU/international student or are transferring from another course or university, please see 'Additional information' below.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 years
- £9,250 in 2025/26
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 2 years
- Show fees
- £1542 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 years
- £17,690 in 2025/26
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
- Register with UCAS
- Login to UCAS and complete your details
- Select your course and write a personal statement
- Get a reference
- Pay your application fee and submit your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
- Course choice - Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
- Career plans - If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
- Work experience - Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
- School or college experience - Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
- Non-accredited skills or achievement - eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Worried about Personal Statements?
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Course in Depth
Level 6
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits).
The purpose of this module is to provide you with an overview and ‘mapping’ of the creative and cultural industries, in order to locate appropriate areas of progression for your future career aims and to introduce you to relevant management structures and systems.
The purpose of this module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and theoretically informed research project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. It is important that we can support you appropriately, so you will be guided towards choosing a research topic which is relevant to your discipline and in which your lecturers have expertise. The outcome may take the form of a written dissertation or a practice-based portfolio.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
The purpose of this module is to enable you to develop professional attributes and subject skills through experience in the work place, and to critically reflect upon your learning in that context. You will normally be expected to arrange your own placement, with support from academic staff and BCU Careers. Typically, the placement duration is 70 hours. This can be achieved in one block, or can be dispersed over a longer period of time, if required.
This module will enable you to examine the complex ecologies and connectedness of the creative and cultural industries. Where does creative work happen, and who benefits? This module is about the application of previously introduced knowledge, bringing theory ‘to life’.
The purpose of this module is to introduce key concepts and debates around global commercial art markets, from various perspectives and with all stakeholders in mind.
Core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Download course specification
Download nowThe Art Business course provides a combination of theoretical and practical study. You will be encouraged to debate, investigate, collaborate and innovate. Centred around your aspirations, there are opportunities to identify relevant roles for yourself within an evolving landscape, and to consider creative enterprise in its broadest form.
This level 6 top-up course can either be studied one year full time, or two years part time.
The first core module will introduce some of the definitions, systems and structures of the creative industries, and key debates that affect the sector and those working in it.
There is subsequently a selection of optional modules* to enable you to tailor your studies to your individual aims and aspirations. These focus on bringing the theory to life and applying your knowledge to real world settings. There are opportunities to gain work placements, respond to live projects and build your professional network.
The other core module requires you to initiate and carry out a project relevant to your career aims. At this point, you set the agenda, supported by academic and industry professionals to carry out a project of your choice to launch your career, post-graduation.
*subject to availability
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
The BA Art Business top up course is, by its nature, employability focused. Providing you with the knowledge, understanding and experience needed to work effectively in the creative industries. You will be supported to navigate the extensive range of careers in the creative and cultural sectors. The course will support you to develop the professional skills needed to pursue your ambitions, and the intellectual and critical skills to challenge existing structures, in order to innovate for the future.
The course will offer a nurturing space for you to self-reflect and identify your innate skill set, developing the ability to locate the right employment routes or to generate ventures for yourself. The course provides a balance of experiential and academic study, bringing together organisations and individuals from across Birmingham’s creative industries and cultural institutions to enable live experiences and opportunities to network and cultivate relationships.
The philosophy of the course embraces entrepreneurialism, curiosity, innovation and a responsive and flexible approach to current opportunities and challenges in the employment landscape. Fostering inclusive and ethical working practices will be fundamental, considering how ‘good’ creative work can benefit individuals, their communities and the planet. Building confidence and a repertoire of flexible, responsive, adaptable and transferable skills will help to future-proof your careers.
Specifically, you will develop transferable skills and learn how to:
- Self-audit and how to relate this to future employment options.
- Negotiate, plan and present to a professional standard.
- Work independently and collaboratively.
- Be self-motivated, organised and effective.
- Build outward facing communication skills – e.g. CV/application writing; social media and other platforms for self-promotion, presenting yourself and your work professionally using video and various types of presentation software.
Placements
As a student on our Art Business course you will have the option of taking the ADM Faculty work placement module. This will have a live focus, e.g. working in industry on a work experience placement or working with community groups on a live project brief.
The Faculty-wide modules allow for the crossover and building of networks between courses. Through these modules you will be integrated into the City of Birmingham, engaging with local contexts and negotiating external relationships whilst developing key employability skills.
Links to industry
The Art Business course has been written in consultation with external partners to ensure its value and currency. It has a direct relationship with Ikon gallery and Colmore Business District, ensuring there are live experiences for students in the profit/not-for-profit sectors.
Birmingham School of Art has a wide array of links with partner organisations regionally, nationally and internationally. These partnerships will provide work experience opportunities for you, and contribute to your learning and teaching activities. Our overseas partnerships often result in opportunities for you to mix with students from different countries and gain different perspectives, as well as opportunities to undertake a period of study overseas.
International
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Details of the entry requirements for our courses
- Some of the good reasons why you should study here
- How to improve your language skills before starting your studies
- Information relevant to applicants from your country
- Where to find financial support for your studies.
This course provides the ability to study in one of the UK’s oldest art schools. You will learn to develop your own creative practice in a thriving creative community in the heart of the UK’s second city on a course which mixes traditional surroundings with current international debates. The ability to develop your own individual practices alongside a range of local institutions and industries will give a unique insight into the culture and markets of the UK.
Facilities & Staff
Our Facilities
Birmingham School of Art, an impressive purpose-built Grade 1 listed example of Venetian Gothic architecture, was the first major renovation project undertaken by the university (£5.5m refurbishment).
The building has a range of facilities available including studios, workshops, specialist art and design library, bookable spaces and lecture/seminar rooms.
As a BCU student, you will also have access to the Curzon library, with extensive opening times to facilitate flexible studying around your life.
As well as these facilities, arguably our most valuable resource is the dynamic and vibrant community of staff and students who are all engaged in the creative industries in eclectic and inspiring ways. You will be able to take part in school events and initiate new ones to form and build your personal network.
Our staff
Jane Watts
Senior Lecturer | Course Director of BA (Hons) Art Business (Level 6 Top-Up)
Jane is an interdisciplinary practitioner, and began her career in textile design. She has since worked as National Craft Advisor for the Women’s Institute in the charity sector, and has 20 years’ experience of teaching in higher education across a range of creative programmes.
More about JaneSteve Bulcock
Deputy Head of the College of Art and Design
Steve Bulcock works across a range of digital media including animation, motion graphics and digital drawing systems. He is Head of Undergraduate Studies at Birmingham School of Art. His research interests are concerned with challenging the notions and expectations people have in relation to their interactions with digital technology. Recent...
More about SteveBeth Derbyshire
Course Leader: MA Art and Project Management
Beth is a practising artist who has been working largely in the public realm for over 25 years. Her practice explores the diverse nature of human presence and expression within social and historical registers. Themes have been: silence in society, conflict and collective memory, nationality and identity. Recent works have investigated...
More about BethCathy Wade
Course Leader MA Arts and Education Practices
Cathy is an artist, writer and academic whose work is concerned with how art can be created and distributed in collaborative partnerships and through the creation of commons. Her work seeks to understand the experience of contemporary conditions through social practice and is realised as digital video, print, installation, public art, publication,...
More about Cathy