Horology - BA (Hons)
September 2021 — UCAS code W723
Discover new designs and materials, discuss the theory behind clocks and watches, and develop specialist skills with our Horology degree, one of the only courses of its kind. You will enhance your skills of servicing and restoration to industry standard, as well as using Computer Aided Design (CAD) and rapid prototyping to explore different methods and designs.
104points required
Clearing 2021
There are places available on this course.
Got your results?
Apply online nowWaiting for results?
Get your Clearing GuideStudying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Information about the arrangements the University has put in place for the 2021/22 academic year in response to Covid-19 and the emerging variants can be found here.
Should the impact of Covid-19 continue in subsequent years of your course, any additional and/or alternative arrangements put in place by the University in response will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location School of Jewellery
- Award BA (Hons)
- Start date September 2021
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Jewellery
- Faculty Faculty of Arts, Design and Media
Clearing 2021
Got your results?
If you've already received your results and have enough points for this course you can apply online now.
Apply nowWaiting for results?
Download our guide to Clearing to prepare ahead of results day and find out the top four things you can do whilst you wait.
Get advicePlease note: the entry requirements listed below are relevant for main cycle applications and may not be applicable during Clearing.
Course overview
Discover new designs and materials, discuss the theory behind clocks and watches, and develop specialist skills with our Horology degree, one of the only courses of its kind.
You will enhance your skills of servicing and restoration to industry standard, as well as using Computer Aided Design (CAD) and rapid prototyping to explore different methods and designs.
What's covered in this course?
Our unique undergraduate Horology course will enable you to study clocks and watches, both mechanical and electronic, as well as assessing the art and science of time measurement.
Combining traditional craftsmanship with the latest technology, this course looks at the theory of horology, as well as providing you with valuable practical skills. You’ll examine the history of timekeeping, how clocks and watches work, and how they are designed, providing you with the restoration skills that are in demand within the industry.
The course uses industry-standard software, such as the Solidworks CAD package, to teach design and technical drawing skills, as well as both traditional and modern niche skills of repair, conservation and restoration. Our workshops give you access to timing and testing equipment, as well as machine tools, including advanced five-axis milling and engine turning equipment.
Our reputation and staff connections mean that our professional links are outstanding. We have unique industry partnerships with luxury goods brands, such as Cartier Richemont (UK), who own the brands IWC, Panerai, Piaget, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Baume et Mercier and Montblanc.
We also boast a partnership with Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH), and have recently joined forces with established UK brand Christopher Ward. All these offer work placements, one-to-one mentoring and the chance to develop technical skills in a commercial environment.
You’ll study at our internationally-renowned School of Jewellery, in the heart of Birmingham’s famous working Jewellery Quarter. Our Vittoria Street building mixes the modern with the classical, and includes workshops, a specialist library, an atrium gallery and exhibition space.
Why Choose Us?
- Students are satisfied with this course! We scored 100 per cent for overall satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2019.
- Our outstanding industry links include Swatch, Rolex, Christopher Ward, Time In Hand, Richard Higgins Conservation and the British Museum.
- You will be supported by experienced staff and visiting tutors, who inspire through example and share their expertise in practice, research and design techniques.
- We boast unique partnerships with luxury goods brands LVMH and CartierUK, part of the Richemont group, give you the chance to undertake placements, mentoring and develop technical expertise in a commercial setting.
- You will have the opportunity to gain the professional accreditation of the British Horological Institute.
- We have a strong employability record, with all of our students getting offers of work often within days of graduating.
- Founded in 1890, our internationally-renowned School of Jewellery is the largest in Europe, located in the heart of Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter.
Entry Requirements
Got your results?
If you've already received your results and have enough points for this course you can apply online now.
Apply nowWaiting for results?
Download our guide to Clearing to prepare ahead of results day and find out the top four things you can do whilst you wait.
Get adviceWe accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
Essential Requirements
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112 UCAS tariff points from A/AS Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels. |
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| LEVEL 2 QUALIFICATIONS | ||
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| IELTS | Minimum overall score of 6.0, with 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in the remaining three skills. | |
| Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
| A Level and Advanced VCE |
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| AS and AS VCE | Considered with a maximum of 3 other Level 3 qualifications (AS Levels must be in different subject to A-Levels) to obtain 112 pts | |
| Access to HE Diploma |
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DMM | |
| Foundation Studies (Art and Design, and Art, Design & Media) |
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| IBO Certificate in Higher Level |
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| International Baccalaureate Diploma |
Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall |
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| Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) | Pass the Irish Leaving Certificate with a minimum of 112 tariff points, achieved in five Higher level subjects. | |
| OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma | DMM | |
| Scottish Advanced Higher |
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| T-Levels |
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| UAL Extended Diploma in Art & Design | Merit overall | |
| UAL Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology | Merit overall | |
| UAL Extended Diploma in Performing and Production Arts | Merit overall | |
| Other qualifications | ||
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If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
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Additional information for EU/International students
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Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In addition to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
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| EU/Non-EU (International) Qualifications | Requirements | |
| IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands. If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
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| International Baccalaureate Diploma (or equivalent, including internationally accredited Foundation courses). | ||
International students who cannot meet the direct entry requirements can begin their degree studies at Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC).
Mature Applicants
Applications from mature students (21+) with alternative qualifications and/or considerable work experience will be considered on their merits.
Fees & How to Apply
- UK students
- International students
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £9,250 per year
- Apply via Clearing
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £13,200 per year
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
Places available to start in September 2021
If you'd like to start this course full-time this September, you can apply through Clearing.
Got your results?
If you've already received your results and have enough points for this course you can apply online now.
Apply now
Waiting for results?
Download our guide to Clearing to prepare ahead of results day and get your results day 2021 questions answered.
Get adviceInternational and part-time students can apply online as normal using the links above.
Want to start in September 2022?
You can apply via UCAS from September 2021.
Portfolio Guidance
It is important to note that you are not required to create a portfolio as part of your application. However, bringing one along with you to your interview would be useful as a point of reference, not only to show your Horological interest but to act as a window into your mind and your ability.
Please see our portfolio guidance page for tips and advice on putting your portfolio together.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Course choice
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
Career plans
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Work experience
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
School or college experience
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
Non-accredited skills or achievement
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Course in Depth
Year one
During your first year, you will be introduced to a broad range of horological studies, theory and technical skills, building a sound base for further study in years two and three.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits):
20 credits
Horology is often described as an “Art and a Science”. This module is an introduction to the story of horology and its part in global civilisation from the pre-historic to the modern era and will help you contextualise your practice.
This module will provide fundamental “knowledge and understanding” of the principles of horology through a series of lectures, exercises, and assignments which will help you begin to develop your skill of critical analysis, essential for you future studies.
40 credits
Professional horologists have a highly developed sense of precision and accuracy. This module is designed to develop your craft skills in design, manufacture and fabrication whilst acquiring an appreciation for the “pursuit of excellence” expected by the horological industry.
Through practice, investigation and evaluation you will develop your technical ability which will increase your employability. This module will also help you to develop key transferrable project management qualities ranging from personal motivation and scheduling skills to risk management and project recovery.
40 credits
The purpose of this employability driven module is to develop professional attributes, and subject related skills. You will develop the practical and professional skills which you will need in your future employment. Course content will be delivered at Practice-led, knowledge-applied teaching sessions, with emphasis on the link between theory practice.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules:
20 credits
In this module, you will learn how to use Computer Aided Design (CAD) as a tool for supporting and supplementing traditional bench skills. This module will introduce you to the very basics, quickly building up your skills and allowing you to design and develop sophisticated 3D digital models which are suitable for production through the myriad of new technologies becoming increasing available in Computer Aided Manufacture.
20 credits
The science of gemmology is inextricably linked with jewellery, and an understanding of gemstones is essential for anyone involved in the manufacturing, repairing, buying or selling of fine jewellery. Today’s professional gemmologists face constant challenges as advances in synthetic gemstones and gemstone treatments become ever more sophisticated.
Core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Year two
During your second year, you will be introduced to further theoretical study of horological mechanisms, and advanced design and technical skills.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 80 credits):
40 credits
In line with the program philosophy of pursuing excellence, this module will enable you to develop the practical & professional skills alongside the knowledge & understanding required to become a professional horologist, by practicing and mastering skill based competencies and requirements of the global industry and so enhance your employability potential.
40 credits
This module will introduce you to various techniques and processes that have particular relevance to the production and/or finishing of horological components, whilst enhancing your knowledge and understanding, the module will also develop the key transferable skill of acquiring new competencies Traditional and emerging technologies will be explored through a series of exercises, enhancing workshop skill based practise and so employability.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
20 credits
This module will introduce you to various techniques and processes that have particular relevance to the production of a Business Plan, a key planning tool both in terms of understanding or developing a business but also with relevance to day to day life skills.
20 credits
This module allows you to start thinking about the idea of luxury and how it can be defined. You will consider the luxury sector of the market and explore the global significance of luxury jewellery brands. You will consider the significance of brand heritage and observe visual merchandising and customer behaviour associated with British luxury culture.
20 credits
This module provides an opportunity for you to apply your knowledge and skills to an external, professional brief. The brief will be set by an external client/ agency, in consultation with your supervisor, and it could be a ‘real life’ problem to be solved, or a simulation.
It is an opportunity for you to engage in a professional manner with an aspect of your subject area, which contributes to the development of employability skills within the supportive infrastructure of the University. Where appropriate, the project may involve interdisciplinary collaboration with students from other courses. In this way, it reflects the collaborative, flexible nature of employment within the Creative Industries.
20 credits
The purpose of this module is to enable you to develop professional attributes and subject skills through experience in the work place, and to critically reflect upon your learning in that context. You will normally be expected to arrange your own placement, with support from academic staff and ADM Careers+.
Core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Year three
During your final year, you will be introduced to further theoretical study of horological mechanisms, and advanced design and technical skills. Greater employability skills are developed, alongside the production of a 'masterpiece' that will summarise and demonstrate your knowledge and skills acquisition.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
60 credits
The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and theoretically informed research project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. It is important that we can support you appropriately, so you will be guided towards choosing a research topic which is relevant to your discipline and in which your lecturers have expertise. The outcome may take the form of a written dissertation or a practice-based portfolio.
60 credits
This module will enable you to further develop the practical & professional skills required to become a professional horologist, by practicing and mastering complex skill based competencies required by the global industry, and so enhance your employability potential.
Studied full-time over three years, the course is practice-led, with the majority of your assessment via coursework. You will also undertake exams, some of a practical nature to align with industry experience.
Taught by practising horologists, you’ll study 10 modules, enabling you to secure a degree-level Horology qualification, as well as providing you with the specialist skills that the horology industry actively seeks.
In your first year, we will guide you through a series of exercises that will develop your practical competency, as well as the understanding of the evolution of horology mechanisms. You will also develop CAD design skills to assist you with your projects.
The second year of the course builds on your knowledge and skillset by gradually increasing the complexity of servicing and manufacturing techniques.
For your final year, you will produce a student ‘masterpiece’ that will showcase the skills you’ve learnt across the Horology course. This will help you unite your theoretical understanding in a physical object, as well as enabling you to build a portfolio of restoration and repairs, showcasing your skills.
Teaching and learning activities
All of our students bring a wealth of experience to the course, with all year groups working in a shared workshop environment to develop key communication and groupwork skills.
Individual projects begin with the acquisition of essential competencies in the first and second years of the course and culminate in range from bespoke designed timepieces in the final year.
You will work on practical projects that are all horologically themed, and you’ll be encouraged to explore different design and production techniques while maintaining the essential qualities of horological production.
International recognition for Horology graduate
BA (Hons) Horology alumni Tyler John Davies is celebrating after winning the Young Talent Competition 2019 for his ‘Equilibrium’ time piece - “An expression of the balance between two or more forces”.
Held at SIHH, Geneva, the Young Talent Competition prides itself on discovering the next generation of the most talented young watchmaking apprentices in the world. F.P.Journe, the Swiss high-end watch manufacturer, organises the competition with the support of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie, and The Hour Glass luxury watch retailer from the Asia Pacific region.
Tyler received a diploma and grant from The Hour Glass which will allow him to purchase watchmaking tools. The event also gave him the opportunity to present his work at the SIHH in Geneva in front of a number of key industry contacts. This is the second time a Horology student has won the award; Anna-Rose Kirk received the prestigious prize in 2016.
Accreditation
The British Horological Institute (BHI), the body that represents UK Horologists alongside the British Watch and Clockmakers Guild, has acknowledged the significance of the degree education and will now confer professional membership status on Birmingham City University CU graduates in Horology a minimum of a 2.2, provided they can meet the BHI standards for servicing.
Employability
Enhancing Employability skills
The course is not just about the acquisition of a set of specialist skills; we also develop key transferable skills, all of which will enhance your employability prospects.
With a degree-level qualification, you’ll be able to enter the employment market at graduate level, with essential skills in communication, presentation and problem solving.
The course is delivered through a variety of formats, including e-learning, formal lectures, tutorials and self- directed studies. One-to-one staff contact and group work enables the free exchange of knowledge and experience.
Placements
Following extensive negotiations we are delighted to state that the servicing centres run by LVMH, Cartier UK and Christopher Ward all offer opportunities for our Horology students to gain work experience.
Student stories - Rosie Kirk
Third year Horology student Rosie Kirk is specialising in clock repair. She did a summer placement at London’s British Museum and hopes to one day own her own clock restoration business.
"I think the inner-workings of clocks are beautiful," said Rosie. "My time at the British Museum was fascinating, I even got to help with the conservation of some of the clocks, which is such a delicate process."
Student stories - Andrew Law
Andrew Law completed a seven-week placement with Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, which services TAG Heuer watches. "It was an amazing experience. They let us experience every aspect of the workshop. I found it really inspiring."
OpportUNIty
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
Links to Industry
Our course was designed in close collaboration with the BHI, with the Service Centres run by Cartier UK, LVMH and through constant ongoing conversations with specialist restoration and manufacturing businesses, like Sinclair Harding, as well as the Clock Clinic in Putney, where the owner, an alumni of the University, regularly appears on ‘Antiques Roadshow’.
International Students
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here.
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies.
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country.
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies.
The UK remains one of the world's leading study destinations
The UK remains one of the world's leading study destinations for international students.
The first-class experience offered by universities are reflected in the world’s largest survey of international students. International students are more likely to recommend the UK than any other leading English-language study destination.
Facilities and Staff
Our Facilities
The School of Jewellery's Vittoria Street building is inspirational and functional. A blend of traditional historic and cutting-edge contemporary, it is light, spacious and extremely well-resourced.
An extensive refurbishment programme integrated the Victorian Gothic building of 1863 with the adjacent 1912 extension and a site further down the road. The architects’ success in doing so resulted in awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Civic Trust.
Horology students also have dedicated areas, as well as the latest CAD equipment. The School’s main computer suite includes CAD design software and Adobe Creative Suite, and you’ll have access to a specialist library.
Our Centre for Design and Digital Manufacturing (CDDM) situated within the heart of the School of Jewellery offers expertise in computer-aided design and manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and has a state-of-the-art precious metal laser sintering facility.
Our staff
Jeremy Hobbins
Deputy Head of School & Course Leader
Originally graduating with a Business background, Jeremy transferred his skills into the horology world following his study of HND Horology at the School of Jewellery.
Jeremy worked as a professional horologist for others, and himself, for 20 years before returning to the School to share his love of the subject and train a new generation of horologists.
Jeremy created the BA (Hons) Horology course to develop the horological education and training offered by Birmingham City University. The course was developed following close collaboration with the British Horological Institute and various leading industry partners.
He is now a Fellow of the British Horological Institute and a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers.
More about JeremyRory McEvoy
Lecturer in Horology
Rory has over twenty years’ experience of working in a number of sectors of the horological industry. Following completion of a postgraduate diploma in restoration and conservation of antique clocks, he worked at the bench for eight years in a busy commercial workshop in London repairing, and conserving pieces that ranged from valuable antique timekeepers to the ubiquitous Westminster chiming clock.
After a three-year spell working as a clock specialist for one of the leading London auction houses, Rory joined the National Maritime Museum as Curator of Horology, based at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. As curator, he worked to promote and champion the Museum’s world-class collection of precision timekeepers.
During his time at Greenwich, Rory undertook the British Horological Institute’s training in watchmaking and was actively involved in the conservation of the horological collections. Practical horological interests include: the conservative restoration of vintage watches, making by traditional production techniques in combination with newer materials and technologies, and testing and working with precision clocks
More about Rory