This course provides a unique focus on works of art as physical objects. You will gain comprehensive skills in art history, together with a thorough understanding of artists’ techniques and questions of materiality, both at the time a work of art was made, and subsequently as it ages and deteriorates. The programme will develop your knowledge and understanding of the visual cultures encompassed by the term 'western art', making use where possible of artworks in London. The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars, and may include visits to monuments, film archives and sessions in the Material Studies Laboratory. Seminars may relate to a lecture series and involve travel within the UK or abroad. On a more frequent basis, first-year thematic seminars take place at London's many art collections and exhibitions. This provides an excellent basis for any career dealing at first hand with works of art, such as museum and gallery curators and registrars, art dealers, values and auctioneers. It is also a good foundation for those wishing to take up further training in any discipline within art conservation. You will gain the skills necessary to carry out historical and technical projects, communicate effectively, interpret material analysis, and to pursue academic research or take up responsible employment in a variety of contexts. Any profession dealing with art would benefit from the expertise gained from this course.