Humanities Research - Critical Studies in Art and Culture Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
| Award | Attendance | Study | Duration | Start | Domestic fees | International fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Degree | On-Campus | Full-time | 1 years | September | €2694 per year | €17480 per year |
Course overview
Keen to develop in-depth knowledge of the theories, methods and techniques of your research field, connecting them with other disciplines? Curious to find out how your research relates to societal issues? Make the connections that lead to inspiring humanities research.
The Humanities (Research) Master is a unique programme that provides extensive training in research design, in an inspiring and sustainable interdisciplinary research environment. The programme offers excellent preparation for an internationally oriented academic career or for other research-related positions.
The Critical Studies in Art and Culture track focuses on current developments within four main disciplines – visual arts, architecture, design and media – from both a theoretical and a historical perspective.
Boundaries
In a globalised cultural world in which art, architecture, design and media are ever more closely integrated and packaged as ‘creative industries’, disciplinary boundaries are called into question and challenged. But a thorough grounding in older and newer disciplines such as art history, architectural history, design culture and media studies is a prerequisite for asking these questions.
Contexts and networks
Since cultural artefacts and media are produced and circulated in specific social, institutional, economical and ideological contexts and networks, Critical Studies in Art and Culture will equip you with the analytical and critical tools necessary for analysing these. Each of the four main disciplines bring specific theories and methods to the table, and the programme highlights their transdisciplinary interconnectedness, with reference to their specific potential as well as their possible limitations.
Critical Studies in Art and Culture is one of the tracks of the Master's programme in Humanities (Research).
Summer School
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Campus Tour
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Entry requirements
1. Academic requirements
Your previous education needs to be deemed equivalent to at least a Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree (wetenschappelijk onderwijs, WO) obtained at a research university (nominal duration 3 years).
2. Programme specific requirements
The Humanities (Research) Master programme is aimed at talented students who are exceptionally motivated to be trained in academic methods in their specific field of humanities. The two-year (Research) Master's is a good option for students who are interested in pursuing a PhD after their MA, but also more in general for students who cherish critical attitude, arrive at original lines of questioning based on a profound knowledge of their research subject, and wish to develop their research skills.
To be eligible to the Humanities (Research) Master programme, students should have a Bachelor’s degree in one of the Humanities disciplines History, Philosophy, Linguistics, Literature or Art, or an interdisciplinary Bachelor’s programme (such as Liberal Arts & Sciences, Arts and Culture Studies, PPE, PPLE, Political Sciences, Anthropology, European Studies, American Studies, Global Studies, Digital Society, Computer Sciences, Digital Humanities, or Environmental Humanities or Environmental Studies.
For the track Critical Studies in Art and Culture students must also meet the following requirements:
- knowledge: a solid background with a minimum of 30 EC in either art history, architectural history, design studies or media studies;
- understanding: an understanding of methodologies in one or more of the relevant disciplines (art history, architectural history, design studies and media studies); awareness of the history and the potential of interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration between these fields;
- skills: an ability to analyse works of art and visual or material culture; the capacity to discuss developments in the arts and media in a wider societal context, and to use theoretical writings to shed new light on arts and media practices.
Admission is also based on additional strict selection criteria:
- proof of excellent study results: outstanding grade for your bachelor’s thesis or similar final work (7.5 or higher), and an average of no less than 7.5 for a relevant selection of your bachelor’s programme (to be decided by the Admission Board).
- clear motivation for doing academic research: showing evidence of enthusiasm, commitment, intellectual curiosity, genuine interest, perseverance, and capacity for sustained study.
The Faculty’s Admission Board will decide upon your admission after having evaluated your complete online application.
3. English-language proficiency requirements
You will have to demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency. You can find an overview of relevant information to demonstrate your English language proficiency on the language requirement page.
Why study at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Studying with a green Conscience
VU Amsterdam champions sustainability and environmental responsibility with green buildings and parks on campus. Committed to climate change research and eco-friendly practices, we are at the forefront of promoting a greener future through innovative education and initiatives.
Be part of a diverse student community.
VU Amsterdam is known for its diverse and welcoming community, with students from over 120 countries. We create a supportive environment that fosters personal connections and collaborative learning, making it an ideal choice for international students seeking an inclusive academic experience.
An excellent history in education
Experience an affordable university in Amsterdam with nearly 150 years of excellence in science education and research. Join a vibrant community of international students and earn a prestigious degree in a rich academic environment. Choose us for a transformative educational journey!
Your gateway to Europe
VU Amsterdam is located in Amsterdam's thriving Zuidas business district, providing excellent access to Europe's cultural and professional opportunities. Studying here offers valuable internships and networking connections, placing you at the centre of a dynamic European landscape. Open doors to your future career with an education that connects you to the continent!