Art History Study Abroad Programs in London, England

My time at Richmond has been the best 3 weeks of my life. I've never felt freer and happier. I have made so many friends along the way that I will never forget, friends that I laughed with until we were all out of breath and crying. The history that London has is almost unreal, walking by churches that are older than America. Everyone was unbelievably kind, at concerts we were upgraded to front row seats, and in class we were given opportunities to see Oxford and York - both of which were some of the best moments I had with the friends I made. Our professor was always willing to answer two million questions, before Richmond I had never had fun learning. I'll never forget my time in London with Richmond and every opportunity it's given me.

I decided to study abroad with AIFS and it truly was the best decision of my life. The AIFS Abroad team was so incredibly helpful--jumping onto phone calls to answer every one of my many questions. I had never lived abroad before but AIFS walked me through each step. My university required that I book my flights through AIFS' travel package, which I found to be so incredibly helpful. I did not have to worry about how I was getting to the airport or what flight to get. AIFS did it for me. From making sure I knew how to use the Tube to immersing me in the culture from the first moment I got off the plane, AIFS Abroad welcomed me with open arms. I loved going to class in a different part of the city as well. Kensington is GORGEOUS and getting to experience the life of a Londoner who travels back and forth from home is an experience I'll never forget. From traveling to Europe to visiting so many museums, from seeing theatre productions to meeting new people, London opened my world up. AIFS Abroad encouraged me to try new things and to spend as much time as I could out and about in the culture of England--while also making sure I got my schoolwork done! I even met my partner while there. I kept a digital journal through Instagram of my travels called "Lost In London"(@katharinegutkoski & @ontherecord._). I truly cannot thank AIFS Abroad for everything. Going to England changed my life and I would choose AIFS Abroad again and again and again.

I would 100% recommend CIEE Study Abroad. I stayed in London for all 3 of my blocks, and the staff could not have been more helpful and supportive throughout my time here. They have helped me grow as a student, and as a person in the last 4 months, and I have found a city that I have fallen in love with. The planned events were always perfectly timed with the seasons and had a variety to choose from every block. I plan on returning in spring of 2027 through CIEE again!

The most valuable aspect of the curriculum was the incredible access to professionals from every aspect of the art market. Hearing from them directly about the challenges and projects they are dealing with was an invaluable tool to understand the evolving dynamics of the sector and have a better understanding of where opportunities lie.

The course was very helpful in laying the foundations of art valuation and learning what determines the success of an artist, as well as identifying the key players driving the direction of the market. On-site visits to galleries, museums, fairs, and the auction house were key to getting a hands-on experience of the different players in the art market. I attended the course during Frieze season, which meant tons of openings, shows, and initiatives provided me with countless learning opportunities, always guided by the wise commentary of our course leader Jeffrey Boloten.

I had an incredible experience at the Sotheby’s Summer Program in London. The four weeks were packed with engaging lectures led by professionals who truly know the industry, and I loved how hands-on it all felt. We weren’t just sitting in a classroom — we were out visiting galleries, museums, and seeing the art world up close. As someone who learns best through real experiences, I found that part especially valuable. As an Art History major, there aren’t many opportunities to explore the business side of the art world, so this program really filled that gap in my education and surpassed all expectations. I also met so many amazing people — many of whom I still keep in touch with months later. Overall, it was such a well-rounded, inspiring experience that I’d recommend to anyone interested in understanding both the academic and market sides of art.

My learning experience at Sotheby’s Institute of Art-London can be described in three words: insightful, inspiring, and unique. The program appealed to me because it combines expert-led classroom teaching with on-site visits to London’s most exclusive museums, galleries, studios, and more. Specifically, the entrepreneurial spirit of the program’s research projects intrigued me, as they provide an innovative, collaborative, and lasting skill set often overlooked in other programs. One of my most memorable days in the program was spent learning about how conservation practices facilitate the preservation of artworks for future generations thanks to technological developments. This lecture was followed by a trip to a Chiswick-based conservation studio, where we observed outstanding craftsmanship and expertise.

Several elements drew me to the 12-week Art Business Certificate. Its intensive structure offered a focused yet comprehensive introduction to the art world, making it ideal for career development. The balance between in-classroom teaching and on-site visits was one of the most valuable aspects of the course. The classroom sessions gave me the critical frameworks and historical context, and then the visits really brought those ideas to life. One of the most valuable aspects of the curriculum was its strong emphasis on critical analysis and contextual thinking. Rather than focusing solely on objects or market trends, the course encouraged deeper inquiry into how the art world operates, particularly around power, representation, access, and institutional responsibility.

This program helped me realize that I possess the creativity and capability not only to envision a meaningful exhibition but also to bring people together to make it happen. No matter how intimidating the art world may be, I proved my willingness to adapt and take on the responsibility of leadership in this industry. Summer Program gave me a real sense of the art world and where I could fit in. My small hometown in Arkansas has very little artistic diversity or green organizations, so it was refreshing to be in a place that truly appreciates the arts and activism.

With the Institute’s honored reputation in the global art market, its direct link to the auction house, and strong industry connections, this program was an opportunity I could not miss. The integration of academic study with in-person learning offered direct exposure to a wide range of curatorial practices, deepening my professional understanding of the contemporary art world. I completed the Curator Academy course, where I engaged daily with leading industry professionals, translating insights into collaborative group practice during our project planning. This ensured I was not only learning but actively applying curatorial skills with guidance from industry experts.

I learned a lot about myself, what it takes to thrive in new environments and how to navigate new cities, achieve my dreams, and study in another country. This course helped me figure out what I want to do once I leave the classroom

I was on London for the two three-week sessions. The classes were excellent and I really enjoyed my class about Shakespeare. We traveled to the Globe theatre to see multiple productions, then had wonderful conversations. Through USAC, there were opportunities to travel outside of London and spend time in lesser known attractions, which let me explore more than just the city. Overall, it balanced both independence to see the city and do whatever you wanted while also letting you have more structure and planned trips.

I had a wonderful time on this trip! The opportunity to experience so many new cultures through art was great! Being in foreign countries with new people also created the perfect opportunity to create new friendships, especially since you're all in the same boat! Travel is a great way to build bonds. We also had plenty of time to explore on our own and enjoy the cities we were in!

I had a great time studying abroad in London for a semester. I was able to experience student life and make friends with people in my classes. I got to immerse myself culturally while still making time for my studies. I got to visit a lot of museums through the program as well.

If I could use one word to describe AIFS England it would be spectacular. I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to spend a semester in my dream city. I think about the relationships I made with friends, professors, and staff every day and wish I could live it all over again. I wouldn’t change my experience for anything and think about it all the time! Go study abroad, it will change your life just like it did mine.

During June 2025 I studied Managing Project and Events in London at University of Roehampton. I had an absolutely incredible time immersing myself in the London lifestyle, meeting other students from London, exploring famous monuments, and even going outside of London to some other English towns with other USAC students. I am interested in Project Management after undergraduate studies and this course that I took in London helped me immensely in understanding the resources and tools used in Project Management. I also went to some well-known sports facilities and the Shard for some class trips. The faculty and staff at the University of Roehampton made it very easy to navigate around campus and made us feel as if London was a second home. On the weekends I went with some of the other USAC students to other English towns including Brighton, Bath & Stone Henge, and Margate. We all had a wonderful time exploring those towns together as these were new sights for many of us. I am so grateful and happy that I had the opportunity to study abroad in London as it showed me that there are so many opportunities out in the world for people to take a part in and grow.

The CIEE staff clearly really care about us and how we do. Ashlyn is very organized, and really tries her hardest to fix any issue we have with courses. The teachers at Villanova University are also all AMAZING and so kind.

I think it is a great program, obviously. It's super cool to just spend a really potent six weeks in a country, develop some passionate friendships, and then move on to the next place. I think I have learned a lot so far, and it's only the end of the first block

Truly I could not tell you what I would have changed about my experience with AIFS. The travel package was so nice, I can book a plane ticket easy peasy, but I was concerned about landing and trying to figure out the tube. They made it so I didn't have to worry about a thing. The accommodations were so nice, and well located. The first day they showed us the route to get from our accommodations to our classroom which I really appreciated. The staff were all so kind, helpful, and accommodating. The experiences they booked for us were so fun and a good balance of catered experiences and free time for you (and friends) to explore London on your own. The professor was amazing! He was incredibly knowledgeable and kind. I truly would not change a thing about my experience and I cannot recommend it enough! For this particular program, they took us to West End musicals, Oxford, Top Secret Comedy Club and out to a few dinners! During class we would walk around London to immerse ourselves in the city, we explored Kensington, the East End, Bond Street, Westminster, Big Ben, the Churchill War Rooms and more!

It’s an amazing opportunity to see the world and isn’t as expensive as some other programs! They’re super hands on, which I personally like because it’s nice to know you have a support system that cares about you when you’re thousands of miles away from your family or friends. The people that work here are so nice and genuinely want to get to know you and make you feel cared about. I was so scared to study abroad, but the second I got here, I knew I was in the right hands and felt cared about. It's nice to know you have a whole team of people who have your back when doing something super out of your comfort zone. I also like that they conduct excursions within our classes but also for the program as a whole.