About us

Norwich University of the Arts emerged in the 19th century from a thriving tradition of craft and artistic activity in the city of Norwich.

Today, that flame of creative exchange burns brighter than ever. We are engaged in the dynamic debate about the nature and future of creativity through different practices and disciplines, established and emerging art forms, research, and experimentation.

This debate is vital because the world around us is changing. Creative practitioners play an essential role by questioning, interpreting and responding, activating change to pave the way to a better, more sustainable future. Through joy and enterprise, great thought and great action, our radical culture and diverse community encourage us to understand what is, imagine what could be.

With a renowned reputation for teaching quality and student experience, the University was in the Top 10 for Teaching Quality in the 2022 Sunday Times Good University Guide. We were the highest climber in the Complete University Guide 2023 — the highest-ranked specialist creative arts university outside London. We have been awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) with the highest possible rating. We are the only creative arts and design university with a triple gold TEF rating.

We empower our staff and students in their intellectual and personal growth, by equipping them with confidence, resilience and creative thinking. We believe that diversity in all its forms is at the heart of creative endeavour, ensuring we see the world differently and give form and voice to new possibilities. Our commitment is to offer practice-based courses highly prized by the creative industries that afford students space to develop their skills and pursue their passion

Situated in the historic city of Norwich — the City of Stories, with an impressive estate encompassing historic buildings and brand-new state-of-the-art facilities, the University is a vibrant community that forms the beating heart of the city and region’s arts and cultural worlds.

At the heart of it all are our students. Artists, designers, performers, makers and creators. Bringing diverse interests and unique perspectives, they share a desire to be challenged and inspired. To learn from the past and shape the world.