Our heritage and history
Birmingham City University has a rich history of delivering creative arts education in Birmingham dating back to 1843. Our long-standing history means that we are an integral part of the city, with excellent industry links locally, nationally and internationally. We are a collaborative and transformative school, and our connections with the creative industries stands out in the region – we are regularly recognised by local, regional and national cultural institutions and businesses for our innovation.
Our mix of subjects offer a unique opportunity for cross-discipline experience and our campuses offer purpose built art, design and media workshops and studios. From our broad course offerings, we offer choice to all students, to explore their ambitions through their practice and beyond.
Historic buildings
School of Art
Our School of Art is an art school for the 21st century with over 180 years of history – we remain rooted in the radical vision of our 19th century predecessor; the Birmingham Government School of Design, seeking to transform art and design practice both in industry and within the cultural fabric of the city itself.
Margaret StreetSchool of Jewellery
On November 4, 1889, the Birmingham Jewellery and Silversmiths Association (now the British Jewellers Association) held a historical meeting to discuss setting up an exclusive school for the jewellery making industry. The Association achieved its objective and a new school opened in the factory building at 84 Vittoria Street, which it still occupies, on September 18, 1890.
Vittoria StreetAbout our history
Notable projects
We continue to work across the city on projects and initiatives that help shape the local art and design landscape and help students into employment and connect with businesses and employers.
Inspired Festival
Inspired Festival is a showcase of work from students from the School of Arts. Work is exhibited throughout June across Birmingham city centre at a range of venues as well as on digital and static billboards and across our own University sites.
About InspiredCo.LAB
Collaborative Laboratory (Co.LAB) is an award-winning design and research initiative embedded in our Architecture courses. We co-create and co-produce creative trans-disciplinary projects with a unique teaching process combining undergraduate and postgraduate students working collaboratively with our staff.
About Co.LABJason Bruges Studio
One of our highly talented Art and Design with Creative Technologies students can undertake placement opportunities with London-based Jason Bruges Studio. Jason Bruges Studio are renowned for producing innovative installations, inventions and ground-breaking works.
About the partnership