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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
2025-09-01
Medium of studying
Duration
24 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Foundation
Major
Fine Arts | Painting and Decorating | Painting and Finishing
Area of study
Arts
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2025-09-01-
About Program

Program Overview


The Painting Master's program at Academie Minerva is a two-year, full-time program taught in English. The program encourages students to explore painting as a practice and conceptual space for artistic research, inviting exploration of materials, methods, and concepts in cultural and historical contexts. Through studio work, seminars, and roundtables, students develop critical analysis and dialogue skills while refining their artistic voice and creating meaningful, resonant work. The program emphasizes self-awareness, experimentation, and connection to broader societal frameworks.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:

The Painting Master's program at Academie Minerva is a two-year, full-time program taught in English in Groningen. It's a Master of Arts degree worth 120 ECTS credits, starting in September. The program invites exploration of painting as both a practice and a conceptual space for artistic research. From a "painterly perspective" within a studio-based program, students investigate materials, methods, and concepts in cultural and historical contexts, engaging in critical dialogues with diverse approaches to painting. Whether drawing from traditional methods or experimental and expanded practices, the program encourages pushing boundaries and creating meaningful, relevant, and resonant work. It provides an environment to apply existing and developing skills, connecting them to cultural, historical, and societal frameworks. The master's program stimulates experiment, dialogue, reflection, and critical analysis to deepen and innovate practice and create meaningful work. Through this investigative process, students develop self-awareness shaping their future work. Activities include program-specific and shared activities and lessons, engaging in dialogues and critical exchanges on contemporary art topics. Core components are Studio Work, weekly Seminars, and monthly Roundtables. Seminars involve presenting and questioning work and viewpoints, considering different perspectives and developing critical awareness of the work and its relation to the world. Roundtables provide space to discuss artistic, cultural, and societal issues, challenging conventional ideas. Shared lessons with students from other programs cover artistic research methods, presenting work and research, and exploring contemporary discursive contexts.


Year 2: Achieving your artistic goals:

The second year focuses on developing the final project and thesis. Building on the first year's research, students refine their artistic voice and deeply investigate a specific research question or theme. The emphasis is on translating acquired knowledge and self-awareness into a coherent, meaningful body of work reflecting a unique perspective. This period of concentrated, self-directed research encourages developing ideas through a balance of creative ambition, reflective research, and conceptual grounding. Regular evaluations and individual sessions with tutors support refining approaches and clarifying the work's direction. Students work on their thesis, receiving guidance and peer feedback on articulating ideas, conducting contextual research, and applying critical analysis.


Teaching:

The program uses a studio-based approach, incorporating weekly Seminars where students present and discuss their work and viewpoints, and monthly Roundtables for broader discussions of artistic, cultural, and societal issues. Shared lessons with other programs are also part of the curriculum. Faculty mentioned include Michal Kruger (Docent MAPs and Painting), Jacco Olivier (Kerndocent Painting), and Margo Slomp (Kerndocent Painting). The admission committee includes theory experts, art professionals, a practice teacher, a theory teacher, a student, and the head of the Frank Mohr Institute.


Other:

The program's Graduation Show 2024 will be held at Pictura. The program emphasizes the importance of critical analysis, reflection, and dialogue in developing artistic practice. The program aims to help students develop a strong self-awareness and refine their artistic voice. The first year is described as a period of exploration and self-discovery, while the second year focuses on the development of a final project and thesis. The program is part of the Frank Mohr Institute at Academie Minerva.

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Introduction to Hanze UAS

Hanze University of Applied Sciences, located in Groningen, Netherlands, is the largest university of applied sciences in the northern Netherlands. Established in 1986, it was formed through the merger of several professional education institutes, the oldest of which is the Academy Minerva, founded in 1798. Hanze UAS offers a wide range of bachelor’smaster’s, and professional programs in fields such as businessengineeringhealtharts, and communication. The university is known for its practice-oriented educationstrong industry connections, and international focus.

International Environment

With students from over 80 nationalities, Hanze UAS fosters a multicultural and inclusive environment. The university has partnerships with 260+ institutions worldwide, enabling students to participate in exchange programs and international research projects. Additionally, Hanze UAS is part of the Erasmus+ program, further promoting global mobility and collaboration.

Research and Innovation

Hanze UAS is a leader in applied research, with a focus on areas such as sustainable energyhealthcare, and creative industries. The university collaborates with industry leaders and regional organizations to address real-world challenges. For example, the Hydrohub MegaWatt Test Centre focuses on green hydrogen innovation, while the Jean Monnet Chair in Sustainable EU Economy promotes research on sustainable economic practices.

Campus and Facilities

The main campus, Zernike Campus, is located in Groningen and houses state-of-the-art facilities, including modern labs, studios, and research centers. The campus is shared with the University of Groningen, creating a vibrant academic community. Hanze UAS also has facilities in AssenLeeuwarden, and Amsterdam, specializing in areas like technology and pop culture.

Student Life and Support

Hanze UAS offers a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and a student-to-teacher ratio of 8.75:1. The university provides extensive support services, including career guidanceinternship placements, and academic advising. Students can also participate in sportscultural events, and student organizations, enriching their university experience.

Employability and Alumni Network

Hanze UAS boasts a high employability rate, with most graduates securing jobs in their chosen fields. The university’s strong ties to industry provide students with internship opportunities and access to a network of 21,500 alumni. Notable alumni include Wim Crouwel (graphic designer) and Kimberley Bos (Olympic bobsledder).

Why Choose Hanze UAS?

  • Practice-oriented education with integrated internships and real-world projects.
  • International exposure through exchange programs and global partnerships.
  • Strong industry connections and high employability rates.
  • Vibrant student life in Groningen, one of the most student-friendly cities in the Netherlands.

Total programs
34
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:

To be admitted to the Painting Master's program at Academie Minerva, applicants generally need:

  • A Bachelor's degree/level: Students must possess a bachelor's degree in media, art, design, or related fields, or a bachelor-level skillset with significant artistic experience.
  • Portfolio: A portfolio showcasing the applicant's artistic process and practice is required.
  • The portfolio should clearly illustrate the applicant's artistic approach and skills.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

English language proficiency must be demonstrated through one of the following tests:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 (with a maximum of two subscores of 5.5, and an average score of at least 6.0).
  • TOEFL: Internet-based TOEFL: score of 80; Paper-based TOEFL: score of 550.
  • Cambridge: FCE level C (169-172).
  • Exemptions from the language proficiency test are granted to:
  • Students with a degree from an English-speaking institution within the EEA who can prove their previous education was fully conducted in English (requiring a signed and stamped statement from the institution).
  • Students who obtained their degree in Australia, Canada (English-speaking parts), Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America.
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