Online Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-04-21 | - |
Program Overview
The SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art is an online program that explores Asian art through lectures and contributions from leading scholars, curators, and art market professionals. It offers flexible full-time study through online/distance learning, developing participants' critical thinking and object-based analysis skills for careers in museums, the commercial art world, and academia. The program utilizes formal associations with the British Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum for exceptional access to collections and expertise.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Offered:
The Online Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art is part of the SOAS-Alphawood Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art programme.
Objectives:
- Provide exploration of Asian art through lectures and contributions from leading scholars, curators, and art market professionals.
- Offer flexible full-time study through online/distance learning.
- Develop participants' critical thinking and object-based analysis skills.
- Prepare participants for further study or careers in museums, the commercial art world, and academia.
Description:
- This online program brings the esteemed SOAS Asian Art program to participants worldwide.
- Led by scholars, curators, and art market professionals.
- Utilizes formal associations with the British Museum and Victoria and Albert Museum for exceptional access to collections and expertise.
- Employs a flexible online learning model with bespoke videos and technological tools for deep engagement with the material.
- Offers the option to complete the program entirely online or supplement it with an intensive two-week in-person museum-based course in London (Asian Art in the Museum).
- Suitable for individuals with an interest in Asian art, regardless of their background.
- Serves as a pathway for further postgraduate study in Asian art history and related careers.
Outline:
Program structure:
- Three immersive online modules, each eleven weeks long.
- Participants can start the program with any module in October, January, or April.
- Supporting courses: Analysing & Exploring the Arts and Independent Study Project in Asian Art History (both online) and Asian Art in the Museum (intensive two-week in-person course in London).
Upcoming modules:
| Module Title | Dates | Credit Points | Description | |---|---|---|---| | Asia's Art Histories | 30 September – 18 December 2024 | 30 | Introduces the diversity of Asian artistic traditions and visual cultures across regions. | | Curating Asian Art | 6 January – 26 March 2025 | 30 | Explores the theory and practice of curating Asian art in museums and galleries. | | Arts of Southeast Asia (online) | 21 April – 9 July 2025 | 30 | Delves into the unique art forms and traditions of Southeast Asia. |
Supporting courses:
| Title | Dates | Credit Points | Description | |---|---|---|---| | Analysing & Exploring the Arts | Termly, online and in-person | 15 | Develops critical analysis and interpretation skills for studying the arts. | | Independent Study Project in Asian Art History | Termly, online and in-person | 15 | Conducts independent research on a chosen topic in Asian art history. | | Asian Art in the Museum | July, in-person | 15 | Provides an immersive museum-based experience focused on object-based study of Asian art. |
Qualificatons:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Asian Art: requires successful completion of three modules and two supporting courses within three years.
Teaching:
Teaching methods:
- Online learning supported by bespoke video content shot in museums.
- Interactive online platforms and technology.
- In-person learning options available for some courses.
Faculty:
- Leading scholars, curators, and art market professionals.
- Dr Malcolm McNeill, Programme Director.
- Mr Patrick Monger, Programme Manager.
Unique approaches:
- Object-based learning approach, emphasizing direct engagement with art objects.
- Collaboration with the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum for access and expertise.
- Flexible learning options to accommodate diverse student needs.
Careers:
Potential career paths:
- Museum curator
- Art gallery director
- Art historian
- Art critic
- Art dealer
- Auction house specialist
- Academic researcher
Opportunities and outcomes:
- Program prepares participants for careers in museums, the art market, and academia.
- Develops critical thinking, research, and writing skills.
- Provides opportunities for networking with professionals in the art world.
School of Oriental and African Studies, London (SOAS)
Overview:
SOAS, the School of Oriental and African Studies, is a public research university in London, specializing in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It is renowned for its diverse academic programs, world-class research, and commitment to global understanding.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Key Reasons to Study There:
Global Focus:
SOAS offers a unique opportunity to study the cultures, languages, and societies of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.World-Class Faculty:
The university boasts a distinguished faculty of experts in their respective fields, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and knowledge.Diverse Student Body:
SOAS attracts students from all over the world, creating a vibrant and multicultural learning environment.Research Opportunities:
SOAS is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to engage in research projects and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.Academic Programs:
SOAS offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts:
History of Art & Archaeology, Music, Media & CommunicationLanguages, Cultures, and Linguistics:
African Languages, Cultures, and Literatures, China & Inner Asia, Japan & Korea, Near & Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, Translation StudiesSocial Sciences:
Anthropology & Sociology, Development Studies, Economics, Finance & Management, Gender Studies, Law, Politics & International Studies, Religions & PhilosophiesOther:
SOAS is a member of the University of London and is located in the heart of Bloomsbury, London. The university has a strong commitment to social justice and global citizenship, and its research and teaching contribute to a better understanding of the world.
Entry Requirements:
Prior knowledge of Asian art history or archaeology is not a requirement, though candidates are expected to have an interest in the area.
Additional Requirements:
- Academic Transcripts: An official transcript of your academic record from all post-secondary institutions you have attended.
The minimum requirements are as follows:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
- TOEFL iBT: 90 overall with a minimum of 20 in each section
- PTE Academic: 62 overall with a minimum of 54 in each component
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) grade C or higher
- GCSE English Language or Literature grade C or higher
- International Baccalaureate (IB) English Language B grade 5 or higher
Your application may be stronger if you have a higher score.
Application Procedure:
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your undergraduate degree transcript or certificate.
- Submit your evidence of English language proficiency.
- Submit a copy of the photo page of your passport.
- Include a personal statement outlining your interest in the program and your relevant experience.
- Provide two references - one academic and one professional.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
All international applicants where English is not their first language must be able to show that their English is of a high enough standard to successfully engage with and complete the course.
