Deepen your knowledge of art and visual culture and explore a range of perspectives, such as social history, global art, philosophy, feminism and gender and sexuality. Engage in object-based study with original works, and discover how artworks are interpreted and shared with audiences in the arts and heritage sectors.
The Department offers two taught Masters programmes, MA History of Art and MA Art History and Curating, as well as two research masters programmes, the MRes and the MA by Research. The Department also offers a PhD programme in History of Art.
As part of the MA Art History and Curating, postgraduate students have the opportunity to be involved in a curatorial project such as a public exhibition (see previous student projects). Students choosing the MA History of Art have the option to select the British Art Pathway, which provides a specialist training with network links with institutions and journals concentrating on British Art. Students on both MA programmes have the opportunity to learn about commercial practices and contexts in the UK arts sector by taking the optional module ‘Enterprising Cultures’, which is delivered in partnership with a Birmingham-based arts organisation. Further professional experience and skills can be gained by undertaking an extra-curricular placement with an arts organisation in the region (subject to availability). Students can use their placement to work towards our Postgraduate Professional Development Award. Please contact the Programme Lead for further information.
We have a thriving postgraduate community, in a stimulating university and gallery environment with an internationally recognised research culture. The Department hosts public lectures, research seminars and annual symposia that postgraduate students are encouraged to actively participate in. It is also home to the online Journal of Art Historiography. Each year a postgraduate student is invited to become the editorial assistant and oversee two online editions of the journal.
Postgraduate scholarships available
The College of Arts and Law is offering a range of scholarships for our postgraduate taught and research programmes to ensure that the very best talent is nurtured and supported.
Learn more about our scholarships
The University stresses the need to develop transferable skills that will help you succeed in a variety of fields. I have learned how to interact, speak to and teach people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I have learned how to plan and deliver a public presentation and seminars for undergraduate students. I also gained experience in time management, prioritising my workload, multitasking and concise communication in speaking and writing.”
Cosmin (Read Cosmin's story)