Study in London

A global hub for art, culture, and commerce, London seamlessly blends tradition with cutting-edge creativity. Home to world-renowned museums, galleries, and private collections, the city has long attracted leading artists and art professionals.

Located in historic Bloomsbury, Sotheby’s Institute of Art-London sits within the beautifully preserved Bedford Square, offering students exclusive access to its private central garden. Just moments away, institutions like the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Royal Academy of Arts provide an unparalleled setting for immersive learning. With its central location near London’s major luxury districts, the Institute offers students invaluable insights into the synergy between fine art, luxury brands, and high-end retail.

London’s dynamic art ecosystem, including museums, art fairs, and major auction houses creates an inspiring environment for both educational and professional growth. Students gain insider access to exhibitions, private collections, and artist studios, guided by an esteemed network of industry professionals. Sotheby’s auction house further enriches this experience with exclusive pre-sale viewings, private events, and handling sessions with extraordinary works of art.

With a curriculum that seamlessly integrates academic study and real-world engagement, students develop a deep understanding of how art is created, curated, collected, and traded. Accredited work placements and internships further bridge the gap between education and professional practice.

Master’s Degrees

Our Master’s programs are designed by industry experts to provide students with the specialized knowledge, skillsets, and artistic judgment needed to become leaders in the international art market. These degrees combine a rigorous curriculum and exposure to industry for a holistic learning experience that prepares students for successful careers in the art world.

Undergraduate

Designed for those over 18, our undergraduate programs explore a range of topics through expert-led lectures, hands-on learning, and visits to galleries, museums, and auction houses. Students gain firsthand access to London’s dynamic cultural scene while enhancing their professional acumen, equipping them with a well-rounded understanding of the art market and the ever-evolving luxury landscape.

Short Courses

Strengthen the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive—both individually and within your organisation. Our in-person courses are designed for art enthusiasts and professionals alike, offering the opportunity to deepen expertise, explore industry insights, and stay ahead of emerging trends in the creative economy.

Evening Courses

Connect to the art world community through our popular evening courses, designed for both working professionals and lifelong learners. Sotheby's Institute of Art evening courses in both London and New York take place on Tuesday evenings. They offer the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, learn from industry leaders, and enhance knowledge in subjects such as art business, art history, or the auction market.

About Sotheby’s Institute

Why study with Sotheby’s Institute of Art?

"It’s a unique period when you get to fully immerse yourself in art, travel, meet incredible people who will later become your peers in the art world, visit amazing exhibitions, learn from outstanding professors, and—above all—take your first steps to a beautiful career."

—Elena Rueda Ruiz de Austri, MA Contemporary Art '19

Details

Our Faculty

Sotheby’s Institute of Art-London faculty are dedicated teaching professionals with deep knowledge of art history, art objects, art theory, art law, art business, international art markets, art valuation, and professional practices in the art and luxury industries today.

Our renowned faculty comprise scholars, economists, lawyers, marketing and communications experts, and practitioners in the art and luxury markets who bring their expertise and their network to the classroom and beyond through local and international field study.

Discover more about the London faculty.

Career Development

Our tailored career guidance empowers students with the skills, strategies, and connections needed to thrive in the competitive art and luxury markets. From day one, Career Advisors provide personalized counselling, helping MA students develop strategic career roadmaps. Sotheby’s Institute of Art-London offers exclusive access to internship and job opportunities through its extensive network, including Sotheby’s auction house and 8,000+ alumni.

With a global community of students, faculty, and industry experts, the Institute provides an international experience enabling you to build a lifelong network to advance your career, wherever it might take you.

Accreditation

In London, degrees are awarded by The University of Manchester. In 2016 Sotheby’s Institute of Art–London underwent a review by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and has received its final report recognizing a significant number of areas of good practice, which is available in full here. Sotheby’s Institute of Art – London is registered with the Office for Students, the UK’s regulator for Higher Education.

Sotheby’s Institute of Art-London is an affiliated institution of The University of Manchester, the first and foremost of the English civic universities and part of the esteemed Russell Group. All accredited programs at Sotheby’s Institute in London, including the Master’s degree, are validated by The University of Manchester. Sotheby’s Institute has been proudly delivering programs developed with, approved by, and leading to an award from The University of Manchester for over 25 years.

Accessibility

Please note: Sotheby’s Institute of Art is located in an historic Georgian building at Bedford Square in Central London. Our campus comprises a Grade I listed building dating to the late 18th Century which is currently not fully accessible to wheelchair users. We are committed to improving the accessibility of our premises, and we appreciate your patience and understanding while we work toward this important goal. Some teaching activities may take place at other venues in central London, which have varying levels of accessibility. For further information please visit our webpage about access on campus in London. If you have specific questions about the accessibility of our campus, either as a visitor or prospective student, please do not hesitate to contact us at admissions@sia.edu.

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