MA in Contemporary Art Theory
This MA offers a challenging and advanced scheme of study exploring a range of theoretical perspectives that shape attitudes towards visual art in the late 20th/early 21st century. Invigorated by current research, the programme encourages you to explore conceptually and creatively the ways in which contemporary artistic practice and critical theory interrelate. It aims to expand your knowledge of artistic developments and to deepen your understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of academic discourses on visual culture. The programme is ideal if you have a special interest in contemporary art, and an aptitude for theoretical work in the subject.
Claire Staunton, MA in Contemporary Art Theory
1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.
Deadline: 1 March. Please note that decisions on applications will only be made once the deadline has passed. Because of the advanced theoretical nature of this MA you are asked to provide in your personal statement some indication of your specific theoretical interests and knowledge and/or demonstrate an awareness of the theoretical debates within art practice today.
Please see How to apply.
The standard requirement is an upper second class honours or equivalent degree in history of art, architecture and design, fine art, film studies, cultural studies or a related humanities or arts subject (eg anthropology, philosophy, literary studies). If you have little or no formal training in art history or a related humanities discipline, you may need to take a preparatory year of study on the Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History. An interest in or understanding of contemporary art theory is also required.
AHRC
Many of our MA students have gone on to MPhil/PhD study, not only in Art History and Visual Cultures, but also in related fields such as Sociology, American Studies and Literature. Careers obtained by recent graduates include: Collections Manager, Art Dealer’s Assistant, Researcher, Lecturer, Museum Assistant, TV Production Assistant, Public Relations Officer, Rights and Marketing Executive.
Please see Tuition fees.
Please see Staff research interests.
Visual Cultures
You take a non-assessed core course which introduces the question of how to explore the relationship between critical theory and contemporary visual arts practices, and you also take a special subject – an in-depth taught course based on the current research interests of staff which will enable you to focus on an aspect of contemporary art, cultural theory or contemporary thought that particularly interests you. A second, in-depth course, the ‘MA laboratory’, provides an active and experimental environment for engaging collaboratively with fellow students on a broad issue central to the programme as whole. You also complete a dissertation and present a focused investigation of your research during the ‘MA symposium’ component of the programme.
Assessment
Essays; archiving and mapping projects; laboratory project (a written, broadcast, performed, curated or other kind of appropriately documented group submission); oral presentation and discussion; dissertation.
Application enquiries
Please see how to apply for information on applying to this programme.