Program Overview

Introduction to the Higher Diploma in Arts - History of Art

The Higher Diploma in Arts - History of Art is a conversion programme designed for individuals who wish to study the history of art intensively over one or two academic years. This programme is ideal for those with an active interest in the history of art but without a prior degree in the discipline, or for those currently employed in the arts and seeking an academic qualification.

Course Outline

The Higher Diploma in Arts - History of Art is a full-time course taken over one academic year, or a part-time course taken over two academic years. Students will take courses in the history of art to the equivalent of 60 credits, choosing modules from the second- and third-year courses in the BA degree. The programme is made up of modules such as Modernism in Europe, Art & Patronage in Renaissance Italy, and Approaches to the History of Art.

Modules

• HA2003 Modernism in Europe - Semester 1 (5 credits)
• HA2005 Art & Patronage in Renaissance Italy - Semester 2 (5 credits)
• HA2009 Creator & Subject: Themes in Portraiture - Semester 2 (5 credits)
• HA2011 From Modernism to Postmodernism - Semester 1 (5 credits)
• HA2024 Legible/Visible: Art & Interpretation - Semester 1 (10 credits)
• HA2025 Representations - Semester 1 (10 credits)
• HA3015 Approaches to the History of Art - Semester 2 (5 credits)
• HA3029 Art & Gender Identities - Semester 1 (5 credits)
• HA3031 Global Artistic Interventions - Semester 2 (10 credits)
• HA3033 Themes in Modern Art - Semester 1 (10 credits)
• HA3034 Visualizing War - Semester 1 (10 credits)
• HA3035 Roma Caput Mundi - Semester 1 (10 credits)
• HA3036 Art in Baroque Rome - Semester 2 (10 credits)
• HA3037 Feminist Visual Activism - Semester 2 (10 credits)

Course Practicalities

The full-time course involves approximately 12 hours of class contact time per week, while the part-time course involves approximately 6 hours per week. Lectures and tutorials are mandatory, and field trips within and outside Ireland are optional. Assessment is based partly on written assignments and class tests.

Why Choose This Course

The University College Cork (UCC) is an ideal place to study the history of art, with award-winning facilities like the Glucksman Gallery on campus and institutions such as the Crawford Art Gallery and the National Sculpture Factory in Cork City. The programme guarantees a high level of visual literacy and critical awareness, making graduates highly desirable in various fields.

Skills and Careers Information

Graduates of the Higher Diploma in the History of Art can pursue careers in:

• Journalism, media, and film
• Museum and gallery work
• Teaching and research
• Design and fashion
• Advertising and public relations
• The heritage industry and cultural tourism
• Information technology and the Internet
• Arts administration
• Art market, auction houses, and antiques consultancy work

Requirements

The programme is intended for those who already have a 3- or 4-year primary degree, preferably in the area of Arts or the Sciences. Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. International applicants must also meet English language requirements.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Full-time: 6,400 Part-time: 3,900, while the Non-EU fee is 18,500. Deposits are non-refundable, and there are various options for paying fees.

How to Apply

Applications are made online, with a non-refundable 50 application fee. Supporting documents, including original qualification documents and transcripts, must be uploaded to the UCC online application portal. Additional information, such as professional or voluntary positions held and computing/technical/IT skills, may also be required. The closing date for non-EU applications is open until all places have been filled or no later than 15 June, with early application advised.