MA History of Art

Program Overview

The Courtauld's MA in History of Art offers a research-intensive program taught by world-renowned faculty. It combines a range of teaching methods, including small group seminars, one-to-one tutorials, and exhibition visits. Graduates develop analytical and communication skills for careers in academia, museums, and the arts sector. The program provides bespoke career support and access to a network of successful alumni.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Name: MA in History of Art
• Status: Applications Open
• Location: Vernon Square Kings Cross, London WC1X 9EP (during The Courtauld Connects project)
• Duration: 9 months, full-time
• Awarding body: University of London
• Intake: 200 - 250 students per year
• Overview: The Courtauld MA in the History of Art provides in-depth research-led teaching by world-class faculty in a single-subject setting.
It excels in providing training in analytical and communication skills for further research or employment in the arts sector.
• Objectives: To develop well-rounded, intellectually astute art historians and museum professionals equipped to make significant contributions to public life.

Outline:

• Program Structure: Combines a range of teaching methods and learning strands.
• Modules:
• Special Options:
Small group seminars, focused on specific periods and regions (e.g., Byzantine & Medieval Art, Renaissance Art, Early Modern Art, etc.).
• Shared Interest Classes: Address issues across historical periods.
• Methodologies in Conversation: Two faculty members approach shared art-historical concerns from different perspectives (hybrid format).
• Assessed Essays: Two 4,000-word essays related to the chosen Special Option.
• Virtual Exhibition Assignment: Selection and presentation of artworks for a curated exhibition.
• Dissertation: 10,000 words on a chosen topic, supervised by the Special Option leader.
• Course Schedule:
• Semester 1:
Assessed Essay 1, Methodologies in Conversation sessions, Special Options, Research for Essay 2.
• Semester 2: Assessed Essay 2, Virtual Exhibition, Dissertation research and writing.

Assessment:

• Formal Assessment:
• Assessed Essay 1 (15%)
• Assessed Essay 2 (20%)
• Virtual Exhibition Assignment (15%)
• Dissertation (50%)

Teaching:

• Methods: One-to-one tutorials, small group seminars, exhibition and site visits, potential field trips.
• Faculty: World-class experts in their respective fields.
• Unique Approaches:
• Methodologies in Conversation:
Two faculty members approach shared art-historical concerns from different perspectives.
• Research-Led Teaching: Students engage with cutting-edge research and scholarship.
• Individualized Support: One-to-one tutorials and tailored feedback for essays and projects.

Careers:

• The program equips graduates with highly transferable skills.
• Potential career paths include:
• Academics
• Curators
• Conservators
• Art Dealers
• Auction House Experts
• Lawyers
• Entrepreneurs
• Publishers
• Media Professionals
• Teachers
• Journalists
• Business / Marketing & Communications Professionals
• Fashion Buyers
• Civil Servants
• Careers Support: Bespoke one-to-one guidance, exploring career and study options, finding internships, enhancing employability, navigating job markets, and crafting successful applications.
Available for graduates for two years after graduation.

Other:

• Special Options: Students choose up to three Special Options, tailoring personal statements for each.
• Scholarships: The Courtauld provides over half a million pounds in MA scholarships annually, awarded based on academic merit.