Master in History of Art and Museum Studies

Program Overview

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The Master in History of Art and Museum Studies offers a diverse approach to the study of History of Art and Archaeology alongside the functions of museums’ management. Students analyse the role of art and heritage in our modern societies through deep analysis of museums’ general organisation, cultural or scientific enhancement methodologies, administration and preservation processes alongside the role of technologies and media. Curators or heritage officers and museums’ professionals give courses from Sorbonne University or Ecole du Louvre in Paris.

Students will learn about collections management, loan and acquisitions processes, exhibition planning and design, communication techniques and educational programmes organised by museums. Students will also develop critical thinking and analysis tools to understand art and archaeological objects from a mediator or researcher perspective.

During the three first three semesters, the programme focuses on a presentation to the history of occidental, oriental and Islamic art and on museums’ management, preservation careers, museography, heritage law and art market. During the fourth and last semester, students participate in a twelve week mandatory internship in France, in one of the prestigious museums to gain a unique and considerable experience.

There are abundant rewarding career opportunities on a regional and global scale in museums, galleries, heritage centers, cultural institutions, art fairs and auction houses with varied areas of expertise ranging from collections and acquisitions, preservation, scientific and cultural programming, exhibition, education and mediation, art publishing and journalism. Graduates can look forward to interesting positions such as Production Managers, Cultural Programmers, Curators, Literature Reviewers, Collection Supervisors, Registrars, Educational Managers, Editorial Managers, Public Policy Advisors and Communication Officers amongst others.

Typical delivery format of the courses*
M1 and M2

*This is the usual pattern of the courses, changes may sometimes occur.

Program Outline

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Master in History of Art and Museum Studies: Detailed Analysis

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Degree Overview:

The Master in History of Art and Museum Studies aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both historical and contemporary art and museums. The program combines the study of art history and archaeology with the practicalities of museum management, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various cultural fields.

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Objectives:

• Deepen understanding of art and archaeological objects: Students gain critical thinking and analysis tools to examine artwork from different perspectives, both as researchers and potential museum professionals.
• Explore diverse art history: The program covers Occidental, Oriental, and Islamic art, offering a global perspective on artistic expression.
• Investigate museum functions and challenges: Students understand the various roles of museums, including organization, cultural and scientific programs, administration, preservation, and the impact of technology and media.
• Build practical skills: Participants learn about collections management, loan and acquisition procedures, exhibition planning and design, communication techniques, and educational programs.
• Prepare for leadership roles: Graduates develop the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue successful careers in museums, galleries, heritage centers, and related institutions.

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Outline:

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Year 1 – Semester 1:

• Modules:
• Art History and Archaeology I (Oriental Archaeology, Antique Art, Modern Art, History of Techniques)
• Heritage, Museums and Collections (History of Heritage, History and Contemporary Issues of Collections, Museums History and Contemporary Issues, Archaeological Sites and Museums)
• French or English for Art Historians

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Year 1 – Semester 2:

• Modules:
• Art History and Archaeology II (Islamic Art, Medieval Art, Asian Art, Iconography)
• Museums Administration and Management (Economical and Political Issues, Scientific and Cultural Programme of the Museum, Museum Acquisition, Policy and Strategy, International Law Applied to Museums and Artworks)
• Museums Missions and Issues (Conservation in Museum, The Basics of Museography, Documentation, Audiences and Museum, Tools of Cultural Mediation and Education)
• French or English for Art Historians

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Year 2 – Semester 3:

• Modules:
• Museum’s Collection Management (The Basics of Collection Management and Registration, Registration, Preventive Conservation and Restoration, Documentation and New Technologies)
• Exhibitions (Temporary Exhibitions, Scenography and Exhibition Design, Exhibition Production, Contemporary Issues)
• Museum Programming, Communication and Diffusion (Temporary Programming in Museums, Graphic Design and Publications, Communication and Museum, Digital Tools and Digital Humanities)
• French or English for Art Historians

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Year 2 – Semester 4:

• Modules:
• Written assignments: Essays, research papers, and critical analyses.
• Presentations: Individual and group presentations demonstrating research findings and analysis.
• Examinations: Written and oral exams testing knowledge and understanding of course material.
• Practical projects: Case studies, simulations, and fieldwork related to museum functions and management.
• Dissertation: An independent research project requiring in-depth analysis and writing on a chosen topic within the program’s scope.

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Teaching:

The program features a diverse teaching approach utilizing traditional and innovative methods:

• Lectures: Eminent professors from Sorbonne University and École du Louvre deliver lectures on various topics within art history and museum studies.
• Seminars: Smaller group discussions led by faculty members encourage deeper analysis, critical thinking, and student participation.
• Workshops: Practical sessions provide hands-on experience with specific skills related to museum management and exhibition design.
• Guest lectures: Industry professionals and renowned experts may contribute with guest lectures enriching the program with real-world insights.
• Field trips: Practical visits to museums and cultural institutions in France and the UAE enhance theoretical knowledge with experiential learning.

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Careers:

Graduates are equipped for diverse career paths in various cultural and heritage-related fields:

• Museum professionals: Curators, collection managers, registrars, educators, exhibition coordinators, and program developers.
• Cultural center personnel: Program directors, researchers, development officers, and archivists.
• Historians and researchers: Specializing in art, archaeology, or museum studies.
• Auction houses and galleries: Appraisers, researchers, and marketing specialists.
• Art publishing and journalism: Editors, critics, and writers specializing in art and culture.
• Government agencies and policy advisors: Contributing to cultural heritage preservation and development.

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Other:

• The program benefits from partnerships with cultural institutions in Paris, offering internship opportunities and a firsthand understanding of leading museums.
• Graduates may leverage the international reputation of Sorbonne University to secure career opportunities across the globe.
• The program prepares students for further postgraduate studies in specific areas of art history or museology.
• Tuition fees for the program are AED 189,400 (approximately US$ 51,612) spread over two years.
• Admission requirements include a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, English or French language proficiency, and a successful interview.

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Overall:

The Master in History of Art and Museum Studies provides a comprehensive and valuable educational experience for those passionate about art history, heritage preservation, and the world of museums. The program's detailed curriculum, experienced faculty, and industry-relevant approach prepare graduates for successful careers in diverse and vibrant cultural fields.

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• Programme tuition fees (over 2 years): AED 189,400 (approximately US$ 51,612) • Payment of fees: Click here