Master of Arts in Arts & Culture: Design Cultures

Overview

The Master of Arts in Arts & Culture: Design Cultures offers a critical study of design within a Humanities framework. This one-year, full-time program is conducted in English and delves into how design influences various aspects of contemporary life, such as identity, mobility, ecology, overconsumption, and inequality.

Curriculum

The curriculum focuses on:

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• History and theory of design
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• Cultural and ecological implications of design
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• Social meanings and critiques of design
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• The role of designers in production, sale, and consumption
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• Intersections of design with contemporary societal issues
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Key Questions Explored

The program encourages exploration of pivotal questions regarding design, including:

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• What makes a design iconic?
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• How is design utilized to construct national identity?
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• How can design be approached from post-colonial, ecological, and feminist perspectives?
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• How do designers conceptualize and execute their work?
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• In what ways can the same object hold different meanings for various users?
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• What is the future trajectory of design?
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Learning Environment

Studying in Amsterdam, students have unique opportunities for collaboration across the design sector, cultural institutions, and social enterprises. The program is enriched by an international faculty of distinguished researchers, providing an engaging academic experience.

Related Programs

Design Cultures is one of the tracks offered within the broader master's program in Arts & Culture. Other tracks include:

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• Arts & Culture: Comparative Arts and Media Studies
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• Arts & Culture: Contemporary Art History

Open Days

Join the Online Master’s Event on Thursday, 26 November, or the International Master’s Webinar on Tuesday, 6 October, to learn more about the programme and studying at VU Amsterdam.

Vu University of Amsterdam

Overview:

Vu University of Amsterdam, also known as Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, is a public research university located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It is known for its strong focus on research and its commitment to fostering critical thinking and personal development in its students.

Services Offered:

Education:

The university offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's programs across various disciplines. It also provides specialized programs for professionals and a summer school.

Research:

Vu University Amsterdam is renowned for its research activities, with a focus on interdisciplinary research institutes and a strong emphasis on valorization.

Student Support:

The university provides various support services for students, including a student portal, a library, and a student support center.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Key Reasons to Study There:

Research-driven environment:

The university's strong focus on research provides students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and learn from leading experts.

Interdisciplinary approach:

The university encourages interdisciplinary learning and research, fostering a holistic understanding of complex issues.

Personal development:

Vu University Amsterdam emphasizes personal development and critical thinking, preparing students for a successful future.

Academic Programs:

Bachelor's Programs:

The university offers a wide range of bachelor's programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technology.

Master's Programs:

Vu University Amsterdam provides a diverse selection of master's programs, offering specialized knowledge and skills in various fields.

Honour's Program:

The university offers an honors program for high-achieving students, providing them with advanced academic opportunities.

Other:

Impact:

The university is committed to making a positive impact on society through its research and education.

News and Events:

The university regularly publishes news and updates on its website, highlighting its research, student achievements, and events.

Campus Tour:

The university offers virtual campus tours for prospective students.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with students and faculty from around the world.