Key Summary
FAQs
What are the best art universities in the UK?
There is no single best UK art university because rankings measure different things. Current strong options include Loughborough, Leeds and Lancaster in the Complete University Guide 2027, while the QS 2026 global Art & Design ranking places the Royal College of Art first and University of the Arts London second. Course level matters more than one overall list.
Is the art university ranking on this page still current?
Not fully. The article's Oxford-first list reflects an older edition of Complete University Guide data and should not be presented as the current 2027 order. The latest table has changed substantially. For example, Loughborough is now second, Leeds sixth and Lancaster ninth for Art & Design, so applicants should check the latest edition before comparing positions.
Which UK university ranks highly for Art and Design in 2027?
Loughborough University ranks second in the Complete University Guide 2027 Art & Design table. The University of Leeds is sixth and Lancaster University ninth. These positions cover the guide's broad Art & Design subject category, so a student interested specifically in fine art, fashion, graphic design or product design should compare the exact course separately.
What is the world's highest-ranked art and design university?
The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 place the Royal College of Art first globally and University of the Arts London second. The Royal College of Art is a postgraduate university, so undergraduate applicants should not treat its number-one position as a direct bachelor's degree option.
Is University of the Arts London good for art and design?
Yes. University of the Arts London is one of the strongest specialist choices and ranks second globally for Art & Design in QS 2026. Its colleges include Central Saint Martins and London College of Fashion, among others. The best choice still depends on discipline because studying fashion, illustration, fine art and graphic design can involve very different facilities and teaching.
Do I need a portfolio to apply for an art degree?
Often yes, but not for every course. Many practical art and design degrees use a portfolio to assess ideas, experimentation, development and creative potential rather than polished final pieces alone. Requirements differ by university and subject, so follow the exact portfolio brief for your course instead of sending one identical portfolio to every institution.
Should I choose a specialist art school or a general university?
Choose a specialist art school if you want a highly concentrated creative community and extensive exposure to other art and design disciplines. Choose a broader university if you value access to wider subjects, societies and interdisciplinary options. Neither model is automatically better, so compare studio access, tutor expertise, workshops, exhibitions and graduate work.
What facilities should I look for on an art degree?
Look for facilities that match the work you actually want to make, such as studios, print rooms, photography spaces, darkrooms, fabrication workshops, ceramics, textiles, digital labs or specialist software. Ask about opening hours and access too. An impressive facility is less valuable if undergraduates rarely use it or must compete heavily for booked time.
How should I choose the best art university for me?
Start with the exact course rather than the university name. Compare student portfolios, studio culture, teaching approach, facilities, assessment, industry projects, placement options and graduate destinations. Visit degree shows where possible. A university ranked lower overall may be much stronger for your particular discipline or produce work that fits your creative direction better.
The UK is a great place to study art and design at university. So many of the universities have great reputations, a range of courses and offer quality teaching. They’ve also produced renowned alumni in the art world, from gallery directors to notable painters. With so many great universities to choose from, finding the perfect place to study can be that much more challenging. To help you out, we’ve created a list of the 10 best art and design universities in the UK, based on The Complete University Guide data. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
10. Goldsmiths, University of London
Occupying the tenth position of our list of the best art universities in the UK, Goldsmiths is famed for its lively artistic community. Located in South East London, this university presents students with an exceptional fusion of metropolitan lifestyle and scholarly distinction. The Department of Art boasts illustrious alumni, including Damien Hirst and Antony Gormley. Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and a diverse selection of courses, Goldsmiths stands as an ideal choice for aspiring artists and designers eager to leave their imprint on the creative realm.
9. University of Edinburgh
Dating back to 1582, the University of Edinburgh has a long-standing reputation in the UK as one of the best unis around. But it’s also one of the best universities in the UK when it comes to art and design. it’s located in the Scottish capital, and is home to the Edinburgh College of Art, which provides students with a great environment to explore various disciplines. Its alumni include world-famous artists, architects, and designers, ensuring that a degree from Edinburgh carries weight in the creative industry. Among the alumni is John Leighton, Director General of the National Galleries of Scotland, art promoter Richard Demarco, painter Alan Davie, and writer Aileen Paterson.
8. University of Leeds
Next on our list is the University of Leeds, known for its diverse range of courses, which cater to a variety of artistic interests. At the forefront of research and innovation, the university’s School of Design boasts state-of-the-art facilities, enabling students to excel in their chosen disciplines. With its vibrant student life and prime location in the bustling city of Leeds, this university is an excellent choice for budding artists and designers.
7. Lancaster University
Located in the picturesque North West of England, Lancaster University offers students a serene setting for their art and design studies. Its Fine Art programme is particularly noteworthy, emphasising contemporary practice and critical thinking. The university encourages cross-disciplinary collaborations and has strong links with creative industries, providing students with valuable opportunities for professional development.
6. University of Kent
Offering a range of creative courses, the University of Kent has earned its place in the top 10 for art and design. Its multidisciplinary approach encourages students to experiment with various artistic disciplines, fostering well-rounded artists and designers. The university’s Canterbury campus is home to an array of cultural events, further enhancing the student experience and providing ample opportunities to engage with the art world.
5. Newcastle University
Newcastle University takes the fifth spot on our list of the best art universities in the UK. Its School of Arts and Cultures offers a range of courses, from fine art, architecture, and design. You’ll find state-of-the-art facilities there, plus you’ll be in a city that has plenty of art opportunities to feel inspired. There’s a variety of galleries, museums, and cultural events, making it the perfect city for studying art and design.
4. University of Glasgow
Located in Scotland’s largest city, the University of Glasgow is an well-known university with a great reputation in the arts. The Art School – School of Culture and Creative Arts – offers a diverse range of programmes, allowing students to specialise in everything from traditional fine art to digital media. With its stunning campus and rich cultural heritage, the University of Glasgow provides an inspiring environment for aspiring creatives. It’s among the top 5 best art universities in the UK, beaten only by a few.
3. UCL (University College London)
Taking the bronze medal is UCL, coming in third of our list of the best art and design universities in the UK. It’s a globally renowned institution located in the heart of London. The esteemed Slade School of Fine Art at UCL has a rich legacy of nurturing prominent artists and designers, establishing it as a top choice for creative students. With a variety of art and design courses, UCL expertly merges in-depth academics and hands-on learning, empowering students to build a solid foundation in their respective fields. Situated amidst London’s dynamic art scene and iconic cultural attractions, UCL offers students an unparalleled opportunity to fully engage with the world of art and design.
2. Loughborough University
Loughborough University, situated in the charming market town of Loughborough, is our runner-up. With a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, the university’s School of Design and Creative Arts encourages students to think critically and develop their artistic skills. Boasting cutting-edge facilities and a dedicated team of faculty, Loughborough offers an unparalleled learning experience, preparing graduates for successful careers in the creative industries.
1. University of Oxford
Topping our list of the best art and design universities in the UK is the University of Oxford. Everyone’s heard of the University of Oxford, but not everyone associates it with being one of the best universities in the UK for art and design. The uni is home to the Ruskin School of Art, which offers students a great place to develop their career in the art world. The University of Oxford is also the oldest in the UK, which means you might also be part of the uni’s historic legacy.
The UK is home to so many great art universities, offering students some of the best art and design courses. There’s lots of things to think about when choosing a uni, but knowing what other students think is a great place to start. That’s why this list of the best art universities in the UK can be useful to help you being making choices.