Internationally recognised for excellence in arts and conservation.

Conservation of Ceramics at West Dean College

800+ Arts and craft short courses

Conservation and Craft skills courses -includes Metalwork, Furniture or Clocks

Study Fine Art - great studios, facilities and support for emerging artists

Explore your study options from short courses through to Foundation, Diploma and Masters degrees. Students achieve ground-breaking work in visual arts or craft or deploy their skills in the conservation of our national and international cultural heritage.

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Studying at West Dean College

You can expect a creative environment with a forward thinking approach, professional connections and a rich heritage of creativity.

Small classes, talented tutors and exceptional facilities offer a rich study experience. Our degrees and diplomas are awarded by the University of Sussex.

The College is near Chichester in Sussex in the former home of Edward James, poet, artist, designer and patron of the Surrealist Movement. It offers an inspirational setting for focused study, creativity and innovation.

Studying here on a short course or for your degree or diploma, can be life-changing. Alumni are working with collections and museums of international significance or pursuing their creative practice.

You can still apply for 2018 entry for most subjects

Explore your study options

College Blog

Angel Cake: West Dean Summer Show 2018

Posted on 4th July 2018

The West Dean Summer Show 2018 'Angel Cake' showcases original work by emerging artists studying for their Graduate Diploma and MFA qualifications. The exhibition is held at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation and in London, displaying a diverse range of practices including sculpture, installation, print, painting, film, ceramics, and textiles.

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School of Conservation Blog

Private View 2018

Posted on 6th July 2018

It's the end of another academic year at West Dean! Following a long tradition from the Books department of having a reception for students to show their work to and chat with professional conversators, clients, visiting lecturers, and friends of the college, the rest of the college now participates on the same day. I love seeing the same faces turn up year after year to celebrate with us. Here are some photos for those who couldn't make it in the flesh!

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Students attending the awards day ceremony at West Dean College
Student collection award at West Dean College Easels at West Dean College

Help preserve our future

West Dean is part of a registered charity and relies on the support of generous donors, friends, legacies to help us deliver world-class education in conservation and the creative arts and maintain our award-winning gardens.

Find out how you can help support us