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MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art)
York
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) at the University of York is an advanced postgraduate program that offers an in-depth study of modern and contemporary art movements, artists, and artworks. The program allows students to examine the development of visual culture from the mid-19th century to the present, covering key movements such as Impressionism, Expressionism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, and contemporary conceptual and digital art. Students will gain an understanding of how modern and contemporary art has engaged with issues such as identity, globalization, technology, politics, and social change. The program provides a solid foundation in the theoretical and historical study of art, combined with opportunities for students to engage critically with contemporary artistic practices and global art scenes. Upon completion, students are well-prepared for careers in the art industry, including curatorial roles, gallery management, art criticism, and education.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) is designed to offer students both a broad understanding of modern and contemporary art and specialized knowledge in specific areas of interest. Core modules cover the history of modern and contemporary art movements, examining significant artists, styles, and cultural contexts. These modules also focus on critical methodologies and theoretical approaches to understanding modern art, including approaches such as feminist theory, postcolonial theory, and the study of material culture. Students can further specialize through elective modules, where they can explore particular themes, genres, or artists in greater depth, such as the art of specific periods (e.g., post-World War II art), the role of art in political movements, or the intersection of art and technology. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students can undertake independent research in a topic of their choice, guided by expert faculty members who provide ongoing mentorship.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) is aligned with the University of York’s broader research culture, which is known for its excellence in the study of art history and visual culture. Faculty members are experts in a range of modern and contemporary art fields, with research interests spanning various aspects of visual culture, including the study of art theory, modernism, contemporary art practices, and global art histories. Students are encouraged to engage with cutting-edge research in the field, and they have access to ongoing research projects within the department. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and encourages students to question the relationships between art, society, and culture, fostering an environment in which students can contribute to contemporary debates in art history. Research topics could include the influence of postmodernism on contemporary art, the role of public art in urban spaces, or the relationship between new media and contemporary artistic practices.
Industry Engagement: The University of York’s MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) offers students significant industry engagement opportunities through partnerships with museums, galleries, art festivals, and cultural institutions. The university’s strong connections within the art world allow students to gain valuable practical experience through internships, placements, and collaborative projects. These industry links provide students with exposure to professional curators, art critics, gallery owners, and other industry leaders, fostering an environment in which students can learn from experts and network with professionals. Students may also have the opportunity to work on real-world art exhibitions, contribute to publications, or engage in projects with contemporary artists. This hands-on industry experience ensures that students develop the practical skills necessary for careers in art curation, museum education, gallery management, and beyond.
Global Perspective: The MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) at the University of York offers a global perspective on art by examining the role of modern and contemporary art in various international contexts. The program encourages students to explore how art movements, exhibitions, and artists have engaged with global issues such as migration, identity, technology, and environmental concerns. Students will study how different cultures have contributed to and been shaped by the global art world, examining the ways in which contemporary art has responded to global socio-political changes. The program also emphasizes the global circulation of art, including the role of biennales, international exhibitions, and art markets in shaping contemporary visual culture. The university’s international faculty and diverse student body further enhance this global outlook, fostering a cross-cultural learning environment that encourages critical engagement with the world’s diverse art practices.
Location
York
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25900
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
- Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 87, with at least 21 in Listening, 21 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, and 23 in Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 61 with no individual score below 55.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of York, located in the UK, offers a range of scholarships to support their educational journey. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, encourage cultural diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.
Academic Excellence Scholarships: The University of York offers scholarships based on academic merit to outstanding international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. The scholarships provide financial support in the form of partial tuition fee reductions.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: These prestigious scholarships are awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and leadership potential. The scholarships cover full tuition fees and also provide a generous living stipend to support the students' living expenses during their studies.
Departmental Scholarships: Many departments within the University of York offer scholarships to international students within specific academic fields. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees and are awarded based on academic excellence and potential within the chosen field.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of York provides scholarships specifically designed for students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and international collaboration. Examples include the York Graduate Research School Scholarships for students from specific countries or regions.
Research Scholarships: International students interested in pursuing research-based programs such as Ph.D. or MPhil have opportunities to apply for research scholarships. These scholarships provide financial support by covering tuition fees and offering a stipend to assist with living expenses. Funding sources for research scholarships include government grants, research councils, and industry partnerships.
External Scholarships: The University of York encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities provided by governments, organizations, or foundations in their home countries. The university provides guidance and support to students in identifying and applying for these external scholarships.
Graduates of the MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) program at the University of York are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities.
Art Historian: Many graduates choose careers as art historians specializing in modern and contemporary art, conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and contributing to the understanding of contemporary artistic practices.
Curator: Alumni may work as curators in museums, galleries, and contemporary art institutions, curating exhibitions, managing art collections, and fostering dialogue about contemporary art.
Art Critic: Graduates can become art critics, providing insightful critiques of contemporary art exhibitions, artists, and trends in the art world.
Arts Educator: Those interested in education can become arts educators, teaching art history and contemporary art practices in educational institutions.
Gallery Manager: Graduates may work as gallery managers, overseeing the operations of contemporary art galleries and exhibition spaces.
Cultural Program Coordinator: Some alumni choose careers as cultural program coordinators, organizing art events, exhibitions, and cultural initiatives.
PhD Pursuit: The MA History of Art (Modern and Contemporary Art) program serves as an excellent foundation for further studies at the doctoral level, preparing students for careers in academia and advanced research.
