Leeds Arts University is the only specialist arts university in the North of England, our students enjoy a small, close-knit community in a creative atmosphere where anything feels possible. We believe this is the best environment in which to grow as an artist, designer, musician or filmmaker. To a great extent, our reputation goes before us: Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth studied here, as did, more recently, Marcus Harvey, Damien Hirst, Danny Sangra and Omar Kashoura. However, we never allow complacency. We work extremely hard to remain a leading centre for arts education, choosing from among the brightest international potential to produce some of the most sought-after creative talent.
In the Guardian Education League Tables 2018 we were the highest ranked specialist arts university for Design & Crafts in the UK, ranking fifth in the whole of the UK. Excellent staff: student ratios mean you’ll benefit from as much personal attention and expert advice as you’ll need. We were also the highest ranked specialist arts university for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2017, with 91% of final year students at the University reporting overall satisfaction with the quality of their course.
Over the last 170 years, Leeds Arts University has contributed significantly to the development of art education in Britain, having pioneered new ways to teach and to structure qualifications. In 1846, the Leeds Mechanics' Institute (which offered drawing classes) merged with the Literary Institute, creating Leeds School of Art. In 1903, it moved to our present Vernon Street building, whose radical design reflected the clean lines of the Art & Craft movement.
In the late 1920s the art school became known as Leeds College of Art and by 1946, no less than fifteen past students had been appointed as principals of schools of art. As our reputation grew, new design departments were formed, including furniture, graphic design and printmaking. A new pottery and workshops were built, and in 1959 a new library was created.
From the 1950s to the 1970s, there was a reappraisal of art education in Britain, largely based on ideas developed at Leeds, where a large team of practising artists set up the Basic Design Course. Students were now encouraged to adopt a scientific approach, enabling them to develop a capacity for constructive criticism and understanding.
Around that time, the University of Leeds’ new Gregory Fellowship brought many practising artists to Leeds, many of whom came to help out at the College. In 1960, we began to run courses which encouraged an open-ended, creative and flexible approach, leading to a new system of art education at Leeds and, subsequently, nationwide. In the mid-1980s our Blenheim Walk building was erected. In 2017 we gained University status becoming Leeds Arts University, becoming the only specialist arts university in the North of England.
Leeds Arts University is strongly committed to its outreach and aspiration raising activities. Widening Participation is embedded within our mission statement and our values. We work hard to engage with young people, mature learners and communities as part of the OFFA (Office for Fair Access) agreed Access Agreement. We work in partnership to provide current information, advice and guidance towards Higher Education and support the transition of disadvantaged individuals towards the creative industries through their educational experience.
Widening Participation engagement is organised through the Progression Team. Current Leeds Arts University staff and students deliver a range of activities with our partner schools and Universitys throughout the year, the range of activities vary between Easter & Summer Schools, the After School Taster Course, workshop taster sessions for all stages from primary, secondary, further education to mature learners, as well as providing mentoring, campus tours and presentations.
These activities provide the participants with a look into the programmes of study that we deliver and an insight into the student experience as a creative student. We also provide a focus on employment and developing a career in the creative industries through Higher Education.
Our fabulous, state-of-the-art resources and libraries offer you the best possible opportunities for proving your talent and your potential. You’ll be able to produce work which meets or exceeds the demands of modern practice in art and design. Not all our studios and facilities are included above in the virtual tours, these are just a sample.
Our workshops and studios are equipped to industry standards, and are run by highly skilled staff who contribute significantly to our teaching. Studios and computer rooms are open on a Saturday and workshops have a drop-in facility so you can carry on working in your own time. Resources at Blenheim Walk serve our undergraduate and postgraduate students whilst those at Vernon Street support our further education courses.
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I loved every minute of my time spent here in the late 80's. The tutors were great and the group I was learning along side were lovely...
By Christine Bonney Stout (Aug, 2018) |
Loved every moment there,the tutors take their time to understand each student, the facilities are amazing and students are well mannered...
By Adebusola Adetona (Jul, 2018) |
Such a lovely place, all the tutors are so much more helpful and supportive that York College. I studied my course there last year and am 100% happier at LAU than York.
The facilities are better and the working environment helps breed creativity, the staff are dedicated to getting you the grades you deserve while also caring about its students as individuals, doing what they can to help with any issues affecting them and their work.
By Drew Petrov (Mar, 2018) |
The best college and University. Very Professional and creative approach towards young individuals. Had an amazing time and I wish it would've not end!
By Olivia Zach (Aug, 2017) |
The BEST college ever, had an amazing 2 years there, met so many nice people, as well as making new friends, people don't judge you on the way you look or anything is a great community, also the tutors are amazing.
By Isabelle Fleming (Aug, 2017) |
A fantastic college/ university! It has been the best 2 years of my life, I grew and developed as a design thanks to help and support from their amazing staff, courses and facilities. I have gained so much more confidence in myself and my work because of the many skills and support I received whilst studying there. Such a professional and creative place!
By Neve Casey (Aug, 2017) |
Exceptional institution, developing and building the creative talents of such a diverse range of people! With out a doubt the best 3 years of my entire life!
By Ross Cowie (Aug, 2017) |
The foundation course exceeded my expectations, the facilities and tutors were so good, in particular the fine art tutors Sean, Jenny, harry and Doug who went above and beyond for the students...
By Ismay Bright (Aug, 2017) |
Lca opened my artistic eyes and made me realise my love for textiles! When I started the ED course 4 years ago I would have never of dreamed I'd get this far! Lca has guided me to be the person I am today! I'm so lucky to have studied there for 3 years with the most amazing tutors!
By Laura Isles (Aug, 2017) |
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At Leeds College of Art, the caliber of education is matched only by the genuine dedication of the staff, making a transformative experience that truly empowers students to shine.
By Jennifer Lee (Jun, 2024) |