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A message to prospective students from the Vice-Chancellor

Vivid abstract painting
Vivid abstract painting
Work by Sunaina Khandelwal, MA Fine Art: Painting, Camberwell College of Arts. Image © Alys Tomlinson
Written by
University of the Arts London
Published date
11 June 2020

To all our prospective students,

I’m delighted you’ve chosen to apply to study at University of the Arts London (UAL). We will be open and ready to welcome you on campus at the start of the autumn term from Monday 19 October 2020.

I’m sure you are wondering what to expect from studying at UAL. Firstly, you'll be joining an inspiring community committed to creativity. Our students are exciting innovative thinkers, and the world has never needed their creativity more. Through the sharing of ideas, passions, experiences and perspectives they help to make life at UAL an enriching experience and go on to shape creative and other sectors across the world. UAL is a remarkable university because students from all over the world choose to learn with us, so you will be part of a diverse, international community.

Our studios, workshops, libraries and other specialist facilities essential for study and making will be open and you can expect a mix of on-campus and online activities. You might hear this described as ‘blended learning’. You’ll learn online in real-time and through recorded sessions, including lectures and tutorials. You’ll have access to UAL’s rich, varied and world-leading resources and expert academics, technician and student support staff in our on-line spaces. You will also be taught in-person, on campus by these experts who are passionate about your learning and about ensuring you can achieve your creative ambitions through your own explorations in our studios, workshops and libraries. There will also be plenty of opportunities for social engagement within and beyond your course experience, and London will provide creative stimulation, diversity and energy.

Of course, we can’t ignore the global Coronavirus pandemic and the requirements this may impose - please be assured that keeping our students and staff safe is our top priority. We will carefully manage our colleges to allow for social distancing (if required) and we’ll respond to UK government guidelines as and when they change. In summary, you can expect us to use the creativity and passion we’re known for to provide safe and inspiring learning experiences for you.

We have talked to our students about what they want from a blended model of learning. What we’ve heard most is that they’ve benefited from the flexibility of accessing services and resources in ways which suit them and the importance of learning communities, both online and within our colleges.  You can expect us to keep listening and evolving to meet your needs and expectations.

We will be back in touch by Wednesday 5 August 2020 with information about:

  • how your course will be delivered
  • enrolment
  • Big Welcome and induction
  • our student services
  • our halls of residence
  • student life outside of your studies – including how to get involved with the Students’ Union
  • our exciting showcase where you can see the fantastic work of the class of 2020

In the meantime, keep up-to-date with our Coronavirus guidance for prospective students and head over to the Students section on our website for a glimpse into life at UAL. UAL is a great place populated by remarkable people and we are so looking forward to welcoming new students into our community.

Best wishes,

Nigel Carrington
Vice-Chancellor
University of the Arts London


Artwork by Sunaina Khandelwal, MA Fine Art: Painting, Camberwell College of Arts.

Image © Alys Tomlinson