A Personal Approach to Fine Art – Why Good Staff to Student Ratios Matter

Studying Fine Art is as much about appreciation for art, its history, and the artists that make it possible, as it is creating your own art and improving your techniques. The multiple facets of such a degree make student to staff ratios very important. The excellent staff-student ratios at the University of Bolton is just one reason why we have been voted No.1 for both Teaching Quality* and Student Satisfaction^ in 2020.

Teacher to student ratios is an area of education that has been much debated and researched not just in Manchester and the North West, but across the UK. The majority of this research agrees that smaller groups learn better and gain more from their teachers. But is the same true of adults and does it really matter when it comes to subjects like Fine Art?

The simple answer is yes to both parts of the question. While university students may have more independence and be more adept at self-directed learning, they benefit just as much as younger students from increased time and attention from their teachers. Good staff-student ratios improve the quality of teaching and the amount of time that staff have to spend with each student. It means that Fine Art lecturers can build closer relationships with their students, understand their strengths better and support and correct technical faults without affecting the student’s personal expression.

Better ratios also improve the depth of feedback that students receive. Staff who have fewer students to mentor can provide a more detailed analysis of their students’ art photography or fine art prints without feeling rushed and under pressure. Having too many students is likely to lead to feedback that barely touches the surface and is unlikely to lead to improved art printing in the future.

Smaller groups also improve discussion and encourage quieter students to join in with seminars and group tasks. Staff and guest lecturers can more easily pinpoint students who need additional support, whether that be with creating fine art prints, written work, or more generally with university life.

Why Choose the University of Bolton for your Fine Art Degree?

If you are looking for a university that offers the personal touch when it comes to teaching and learning, then the University of Bolton is for you. Our BA (Hon) Fine Art degree focuses on the students and their individual needs, skills, and strengths. Small group learning and dedicated staff are just two of the reasons why we rank as a Top 50 UK university.** Bolton University provides the very best in student wellbeing and creates a supportive and positive learning environment so you can experience #UniAsItShouldBe.

Get in Touch

Join our Fine Art degree January 2021 intake and develop your artist skills and flair in a supportive and caring environment. Get in touch today to find out more about the course and how studying at the University of Bolton could benefit you. Our award-winning Student Services team is here for you if you have any questions relating to accommodation in Great Manchester, wellbeing, disability support, funding or finance.

For more information about enrolling check out the course outline, call +44(0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk.

*The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020
^Complete University Guide 2021 – North West Region
*The Guardian Best University Guide