Manchester School of Art buildings

Manchester School of Art

Innovating, experimenting and collaborating through art, architecture, design, fashion, media and performance.

About the School of Art

Established in 1838

As the UK's second-oldest art school, we’ve been championing creative excellence for nearly 200 years.

At the heart of Manchester

Our city has an influential cultural and creative heartbeat – and we’re a central part of it.

2nd in the UK for research power

We're second in the UK for the power of our research in art and design, according to the latest Research Excellence Framework.

An international study environment

Discover a world of inspiration with 44 nationalities represented across our cohorts.

Industry-focused education

At Manchester School of Art, we develop creative graduates who push boundaries and work flexibly across disciplines.

Our industry connections influence and shape our courses to ensure real-world relevance. Students build the skills to work and collaborate in the real world through visiting speakers, live projects and other opportunities.

Our doctoral degrees encourage both practice-led and theoretical explorations.

Our creative experts

Our staff are well-connected, practicing professionals. They exhibit work globally, influence national policy and connect with local communities. External partnerships are crucial to our outward-facing and inclusive culture.

World-class facilities

We’ve invested over £100m in a learning environment where you can achieve any vision, including:

  • digital and technical workshops, with resources for all techniques and materials

  • equipment and material stores

  • gallery spaces and theatre

  • library and visual resource centre

  • studios

  • IT suites with specialist software for print and web design, video and image editing, and computer-aided design

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians give support at every step of the creative process. You can relax and socialise at our cafés and on our roof terrace with views of Manchester.

To explore our facilities, go to our virtual tour.

Our disciplines

Art

Our practice-based approach explores studio work and other creative activities across fine art, curating, performance and art history.

Design

We examine the transformative power of design through graphics, illustration, interiors, product craft and textiles.

Performance

We train professional actors, theatre makers and performers for theatre, film, television and radio.

Architecture

We've been placed fifth in the world for the last two years in the QS World Subject Rankings for Architecture.

Media

We drive innovation in animation, artificial intelligence, design, film, gaming, photography, sound design and user experience.

Fashion

Our expertise spans all aspects of fashion – from design and technology to management and merchandising.

Our people, courses, research and venues

Study with us

Degree Show 2024

Join us from 15-22 June to celebrate the achievements of this year’s final-year students.

Find out more

MA Show 2023

Explore the work of postgraduate students who graduated in 2023.

Find out more
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to lead such a significant, vibrant and engaged art school.”
Professor Martyn Evans, Head of Manchester School of Art
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to lead such a significant, vibrant and engaged art school.”
Professor Martyn Evans, Head of Manchester School of Art

Contact information