Art and Design Undergraduate Courses

Let your creative streak shine and your own personal style flourish within our talented School of Arts community. Our experienced practitioners can share their industry connections to help you lay the foundations for an exciting career.

Explore our course pages to find out about student success stories and realise your own creative ambition.

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Undergraduate Art and Design courses

Why study Art and Design at Derby?

At Derby, we celebrate individuality and innovation. Our School of Arts offers a dynamic learning experience that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and professional skills.

Award-winning reputation: Recognised for our commitment to creative excellence, our courses are ranked among the best in the UK
Industry-focused learning: Gain real-world experience through live briefs, exhibitions, and internships with leading creative organisations
Exceptional facilities: From purpose-built studios to state-of-the-art technology, you’ll have everything you need to excel in your craft

A blonde female sits smiling for a portrait photo

I was creatively challenged and pushed to work to the best of my ability. The tutors offered me an abundance of guidance and support and the course provided with me the skills and motivation to progress into the creative industry.

Heather Dagless

Illustration graduate

Industry connections

Our strong industry links provide students with invaluable opportunities to gain professional experience:

Collaborate with organisations like FORMAT International Photography Festival, QUAD Derby and Derby Theatre
Showcase your work to employers and the public through end-of-year exhibitions and industry events
Take part in live briefs with companies such as Pentland Brands and Design Council, tackling real-world challenges and building your portfolio

Course facilities

Our state of the art facilities are designed to inspire and support your creativity:

Specialist studios for painting, drawing, and printmaking
Photography darkrooms and industry-standard editing suites
Workshops for ceramics, textiles, wood, and metalwork
Access to advanced technology like 3D printers, laser cutters, and virtual reality tools
Media Loan Hub for equipment to capture your work

Art and design student creating ceramic pot in art and design facilities at University of Derby

Career opportunities

A degree from Derby’s School of Arts opens doors to diverse and exciting career paths:

Many graduates work as professional artists, designers, photographers, and filmmakers
Others secure roles in marketing, advertising, cultural management, or teaching
The transferable skills gained – like problem-solving, teamwork, and project management – are highly valued across industries

Art and Design courses and specialisms

Our diverse range of courses spans multiple disciplines, including:

Fine Art: Explore your creative vision through painting, sculpture, and mixed media
Graphic Design: Combine creativity and technology to design impactful visual communication
Photography: Learn in professional-standard studios and develop expertise in both digital and analogue techniques
Fashion and Textiles: Innovate in design, pattern cutting, and garment production
Interior Design: Bring your ideas to life with advanced tools and software

Each course is designed to provide a balance of creative freedom and professional preparation, ensuring you graduate ready for a successful career in the arts.

Photo of a blonde male wearing glasses and a white shirt looking at the camera

The course allowed me to develop my abilities and try more daring designs, testing my creative and critical thinking skills. Lecturers supported good design and gave critical feedback to improve the final product.

Macauley Metcalfe

Product Design graduate

Research and innovation

The School of Arts is home to pioneering research that pushes the boundaries of creativity and explores the role of art in society:

Our Digital and Material Arts Lab examines how emerging technologies like AI and 3D printing are transforming artistic practices
Research into sustainable design explores innovative approaches to tackling global environmental challenges through creativity
Academics and students collaborate on impactful projects in areas like community arts, cultural heritage, and social engagement, driving meaningful change