School of Arts & Humanities

The School of Arts & Humanities is central to The Open University, providing sector-leading, high-quality teaching and research. We use texts, music, artwork, objects and ideas to explore the history and culture of societies past and present. Undergraduate, taught postgraduate, and research qualifications are available and our students have very high completion rates.’

- Dr Donna Loftus (Head of School, A&H)

Student pointing at work of art Copyright: OU Prospectus 2021

Study

The Arts and Humanities shine a light on the human condition. We offer courses in Art History, Classical Studies, Creative Writing, English Literature, History and Music, plus qualifications that bring in English Language, Philosophy, Politics and Religious Studies. Click through and learn more.

Neon question mark Copyright: Emily Morter on Unsplash

Research

Our School enjoys an international reputation for its award-winning academic research, supported by our vibrant research groups and centres, and our lively postgraduate research culture. Our researchers are committed to engaging with the wider world, enriching the lives of individuals and communities with their projects.

Colourful hands touching Copyright: © Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash

Music academics create interactive “show” supporting OU/BBC series “Mozart: Rise of a Genius”
24th September 2024
OU Music academics Naomi Barker and Helen Coffey create interactive ‘show’ supporting OU/BBC co-production “Mozart: Rise of a Genius”
New paper shows the value of arts and humanities degrees
15th August 2024
A new paper has challenged misconceptions of arts and humanities (A&H) degrees, showing the value they bring to the economy and society.
Togas, truncheons, and terrific panellists – OpenARC Research Centre launches
11th July 2024
The new research centre for the School of Arts and Humanities, OpenARC, launched on 10 June with a lively on-campus and online event.