BA (Hons) Art Business (Level 6 | Topup)

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.