Hi!
It's great that you are considering Lancaster Uni as one of your options - in my biased opinion as a student here (heh), it's lovely.
Most important factor in your decision should probably be the course itself - contents and structure. For fine arts, Lancaster's course offers a lot of flexibility through a variety of optional modules and highlights the practical aspect of art as well (with a 24/7 access to a studio space). Compare the courses at both universities to see which one you would be more interested in.
Furthermore, it is important to get 'a feel for the uni'. I would recommend attending open days for both universities, in person if you can, to speak to the lecturers, have a look around the campus and see the facilities. The next Postgraduate open day at Lancaster is on the 10th of February:
https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/open-days/postgraduate-open-days/Also, depending on your priorities, consider facilities and opportunities outside of your degree: e.g. facilities, societies, location, etc. Lancaster University has a wonderful campus, which has both bustling lively areas as well as quiet green spaces and gives the university a homely community feel. This might be different to Manchester Metropolitan's city campus, so consider which one you would prefer
Good luck with making this important decision!
Polina,
Lancaster University Student Ambassador.