MRes History of Art

Program Overview

The MRes in History of Art at the University of Birmingham is a unique and intellectually stimulating program designed to prepare students for independent, original research. This program focuses on equipping students with the research skills necessary to analyze art within historical, cultural, and social contexts. Students will explore a broad range of topics, including specific art movements, artists, and cultural issues, while developing their ability to conduct critical analysis and contribute to the ongoing scholarly discourse in art history. The MRes is ideal for those wishing to pursue further study at the doctoral level or for those looking to work in the art, museum, or heritage sectors.

Curriculum: The MRes in History of Art curriculum combines rigorous academic training with an emphasis on independent research. Students begin with core modules that focus on research methods, historiography, and approaches to visual culture, which lay the foundation for successful independent projects. The program also offers flexibility, allowing students to specialize in their area of interest, be it particular art movements, artists, or cultural and historical periods. The MRes culminates in a significant research project or dissertation, where students apply the methodologies learned during the program to investigate a topic of their choice in-depth. This research project forms a key component of the program, allowing students to make original contributions to the field of art history.

Research Focus: The MRes in History of Art at the University of Birmingham is embedded within the university's vibrant research culture. The program provides access to cutting-edge research in areas such as art theory, the history of particular art movements (e.g., Renaissance, modern art, contemporary art), visual culture, and the relationship between art and society. Students are encouraged to conduct independent research in their chosen areas of interest, with support from a range of expert faculty members who specialize in different periods, regions, and approaches to art history. The research focus also incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to integrate insights from related fields such as sociology, philosophy, and cultural studies into their analyses of art.

Industry Engagement: The MRes in History of Art offers valuable industry engagement, connecting students to the broader art world, including galleries, museums, and cultural organizations. The University of Birmingham has strong links with various arts institutions, providing students with opportunities to collaborate with curators, researchers, and cultural practitioners. Through internships, placements, and partnerships with cultural organizations, students can gain practical experience and develop professional networks that are beneficial for their future careers. The program’s emphasis on research and practical engagement ensures that students are well-prepared for roles in academia, museums, galleries, auction houses, and the cultural heritage sector.

Global Perspective: The MRes in History of Art at the University of Birmingham offers a global perspective on art, examining not only Western art history but also art from diverse geographical and cultural contexts. Students will explore the art of different regions, including African, Asian, and Latin American art, and learn to appreciate the global interconnectedness of artistic expression. The program encourages students to think critically about how art transcends national boundaries and how cultural exchange, trade, and globalization have influenced the development of art. This global outlook ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the worldwide art scene and prepares them for work in international cultural and academic contexts.