Program Overview

Social History of Art MA

The MA Social History of Art will equip you with a deep subject knowledge of the history of artistic practices in the broadest sense, grounded in fundamental questions about why this study matters in the world today. You'll build the research, analytical, critical and communication skills to succeed in a variety of careers.

Course Overview

The emphasis of the course is on social and political approaches to art history, whether looking at the most recent and contemporary, or in the study of the deeper roots of the cultures we inhabit. From Medieval and Renaissance art to live practices now, from the study of our most local environments to the arts of Africa, Asia and beyond, we approach art as central to the production and reproduction of our shared and different social worlds.

Course Structure

• The course has well-established strengths in areas including:
  • Feminist and gender studies
  • The relations between art and capitalism
  • The legacies and critiques of colonialism
  • Jewish studies
  • Climate and environment
• You'll study compulsory modules and optional modules, developing your specialist knowledge by selecting from a broad range of optional modules on diverse topics.

Specialist Facilities

You'll be based within a purpose-built space that includes studios and a gallery alongside seminar rooms, and a shared student common room, which is often used for film screenings, talks and other events. The University campus features:

• The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery
• Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery
• Museum of the History of Science, Technology and Medicine
• Marks & Spencer Company Archive
• International Textile Collection
• Public art trail
• Project Space – a multi-purpose space in the School designed for the development of curatorial practice and visiting exhibitions

Learning and Teaching

You'll be taught through a range of innovative approaches, emphasising inclusive, active learning and student input. This may include seminars, screenings, tutorials, field trips, workshops and other forms of learning generated through dialogue between tutors and students.

Assessment

Assessment takes varied forms, including different kinds of written assignment, presentations, group work, and innovative practice-led approaches. Our assessment is led by principles of relevance, fairness and inclusivity, and the development of vital skills beyond university, such as problem-solving, adaptability, self-reliance and reflexivity.

Entry Requirements

• You'll need a bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) or equivalent qualification, preferably in a Humanities or Social Sciences related degree.
• We will also consider applicants with relevant experience, an interest in the social history of art, or coming from an area of expertise that is complementary.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.

Fees

• UK: £12,000 (Total)
• International: £26,500 (Total)
• Part-time fees are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course.

Career Opportunities

In this Masters degree you'll develop your visual, critical and cultural awareness and expand your subject knowledge in history of art. You'll graduate with sophisticated research, analytical, critical and communication skills that will support you to succeed in a variety of careers. Our graduates have pursued careers as curators and education staff in museums and galleries and worked for national heritage organisations, as well as in journalism, publishing, arts marketing, public relations, university administration and teaching.

Work Placements and Industry Experience

As a Masters student at Leeds, you'll have the unique opportunity to gain real-world industry experience with our Global Industry Programme. You'll develop key professional skills and gain invaluable insight into working in your chosen field, helping to solve a real business problem from a live company brief.

Scholarships and Financial Support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Scholarships are also available to help fund your Masters.