University of Aberdeen United Kingdom

Art History and Film & Visual Culture, MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Art History and Film & Visual Culture at the University of Aberdeen invites you to explore the rich tapestry of human visual expression across diverse media and historical periods. This postgraduate degree is ideal for those passionate about understanding how images, objects, and films shape our perception of the world, offering deep engagement with art historical methodologies and film theory. You will delve into subjects ranging from Renaissance painting and modern sculpture to the cinematic experience and contemporary visual culture, preparing you to critically analyse and interpret the visual world around us.

This full-time, on-campus MA programme, typically studied over one year, will see you engage with lectures, seminars, and independent research, culminating in a significant dissertation. You will have the opportunity to examine specific art movements like Surrealism, explore architectural power, or delve into curatorial practice, depending on your chosen optional courses. Through rigorous academic inquiry and the development of analytical and research skills, you will graduate prepared for further doctoral study or careers in galleries, museums, the heritage sector, or the film and media industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program offers a comprehensive exploration of Art History and Film & Visual Culture. Students will engage with foundational concepts in visual culture, art history, and film studies, examining diverse periods and theoretical frameworks. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics such as visualising modernity and revolution, art materials and techniques, and critical inquiries into the nature of art. The final year culminates in specialized modules and a dissertation, allowing for in-depth research in chosen areas like Surrealism, architecture, or curatorial practice.

1 YEAR 1

Academic Writing for Language & Literature Compulsory
Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen Compulsory
Introduction to Visual Culture Compulsory
Introduction to Art History Compulsory
Encountering Art: Museums Through History Compulsory
Introduction to Film and the Cinematic Experience Compulsory
Introduction to Modern and Contemporary Art Compulsory
Fashion: History and Theory Compulsory

2 YEAR 2

Visualising Modernity Compulsory
Visualising Revolution Compulsory
Art Matters: Materials and Techniques Compulsory
What is Art? Compulsory

3 YEAR 3

Surrealism and Its Legacies in Contemporary Art
Architecture and Power
Painting in Tudor and Early Stuart England
Women Writing Art History, C. 1850 - 1970
Curation: Theory and Practice

4 YEAR 4

Dissertation in Film & Visual Culture
Dissertation in Film & Visual Culture
History of Art Dissertation
Art and the City
Surrealism and Its Legacies in Contemporary Art
Architecture and Power

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 112,461.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,256.00 - USD 3,867.00
Transport USD 725.00 - USD 1,009.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,386.00 - USD 1,732.00
Estimated Total USD 4,367.00 - USD 6,262.00

Living cost estimates are based on Old Aberdeen campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAmusement & Recreation ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesDigital Media & Online PublishingGaming & Interactive MediaHigher Education & UniversitiesInsurance & Risk ManagementPhotojournalism & Visual MediaTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Deloitte

National History Museum

National Trust

Warner Bros

Why Study Art History and Film & Visual Culture, MA at University of Aberdeen

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Aberdeen in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Art History and Film & Visual Culture, MA at University of Aberdeen

Can I work while studying?

International students in Degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. No separate work permit is needed, but part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can choose from several tests. Acceptable scores include Duolingo overall 105, TOEFL overall 78, IELTS overall 6.0, and PTE overall 59.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Art Curator, Film Critic, Museum Educator, Gallery Manager, and Visual Culture Researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program at Aberdeen focuses on the history and theory of the moving image while also examining various art forms like paintings, sculptures, and industrial arts. It prepares you for a range of exciting career opportunities in the art and film sectors.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA in Art History and Film & Visual Culture has an intake in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of this date.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️