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

Interdisciplinary study throws new light on premodern experiences of bodies
12th February 2026
Picturing bodies in medieval and early modern Europe is the latest issue of the Open Arts Journal, showcasing interdisciplinary research.
Music academic completes new edition of the first Methodist tune book
11th December 2025
Prof Martin Clarke completes a new edition and recordings of The Foundery Collection (1742), providing insights into the sound-world of early…
How the National Trust’s art collections can shape meadow restoration
26th November 2025
Lecturer in History of Art, Samuel Shaw writes for The Conversation on collaborating with the National Trust on the role of art history in…