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Our history

Norwich University of the Arts has established itself in arts, design and media education for more than 175 years.

While our history can be traced back to 1845, our outlook is forward-thinking.

YearHistory of Norwich University of the Arts
1845The Norwich School of Design is founded in 1845 by the artists and followers of the Norwich School of Painters, the only provincial British group to establish an international reputation for landscape painting.
1965Approved to offer degree-level provision through the Diploma in Art and Design.
1965Twin strengths in Painting and Graphic Design emerge, under a group of exceptional practitioners and teachers, making a mark on the national art and design scene.
1975First BA Honours degree courses offered validated by the Council for National Academic Awards (CNAA).
1989Great Yarmouth College of Art incorporated into the School.
1993First MA courses introduced through an academic agreement with Anglia Polytechnic.
1994Incorporated as a Higher Education Institution, re-named as Norwich School of Art and Design.
1995First research degree student registered for PhD study.
2008Granted the power to award degrees up to Masters level and re-named as Norwich University College of the Arts.
2012Granted University title by the Privy Council, becoming Norwich University of the Arts. Appoints its first Chancellor — the actor Sir John Hurt.
2016Norwich University of the Arts hosts British Art Show 8.
2019Norwich University of the Arts appoints its second Chancellor — BAFTA award-winning screenwriter and director Amma Asante MBE.
2021Norwich University of the Arts celebrates its 175th anniversary and opens Duke Street Riverside, the latest purpose-built teaching and accommodation building on the award-winning campus.
2022Norwich University of the Arts acquires 20 Bank Plain, opening up exciting possibilities for teaching, exhibitions, student services.

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Norwich University of the Arts
Francis House
3-7 Redwell Street
Norwich
NR2 4SN

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Norwich University of the Arts is proud to announce that it has been named the inaugural Arts University of the Year by the Daily Mail University Guide…
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Norwich University of the Arts awarded Arts University of the Year by Daily Mail University Guide

Norwich University of the Arts is proud to announce that it has been named the inaugural Arts University of the Year by the Daily Mail University Guide.
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QUEERiosity

QUEERiosity

Explore queerness and LGBTQ+ identities through practical workshops, before showcasing your final piece in an online showcase. 
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A person with blue face paint across their eyes, wearing an orange jacket, stands against a blue background. Their expression is neutral, and their hair is slicked back. The bold colors create a striking contrast.

In conversation with

George tells us what it’s like studying BA (Hons) Acting at Norwich, including the skills he’s gained, his creative practice and highlights of his degree.
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