MA in Art and Visual Culture, University of Westminster

London,

12 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The Art and Visual Culture MA is part of the Cultural and Literary Studies Suite, offering an interdisciplinary, visual theory-based program. It examines modern and contemporary culture through aesthetic, critical, literary, and experiential perspectives. Students share classes with those from related programs like Cultural and Critical Studies, English Literature, and Museum, Galleries and Contemporary Culture, fostering a rich, interdisciplinary environment. The course emphasizes visual literacy and explores how perception, representation, and meaning shape societies. It covers historical and contemporary debates in visual culture, supporting analysis of art, digital culture, urban photography, activism, and more. Practical engagement includes visits to renowned London museums, galleries, and archives, providing experiential learning. The course prepares graduates for careers in art, cultural sectors, and academia, and is suitable for practicing artists wishing to enhance their research skills.

Why this course is highly recommended

The program benefits from its central London location, bringing students close to world-class museums and galleries for direct engagement. It offers practical opportunities such as work placements at prominent institutions like the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The course is taught by expert staff including practicing artists and scholars, providing a high-quality, research-informed education. Being part of Westminster's Institute of Modern and Contemporary Culture allows students to participate in seminars, conferences, and events. The course's flexibility, including full-time and part-time options, and its strong focus on international and professional contexts make it an excellent choice for those looking to develop critical, practical, and interdisciplinary skills for careers in the cultural sector or academia.

Specialisation

This program is centered around visual theory and intercultural debates, covering a wide range of topics such as contemporary visual arts, city material culture, modernism, popular and avant-garde cultures, digital media, migration, identity, activism, and museum practices. Students can choose optional modules like Capitalism and Culture or Digital Cultures, tailoring their study to specific interests.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

18.47L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need at least a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a relevant arts, humanities, fine arts, performing arts, or social science discipline. Relevant work experience can also be considered, especially if the applicant's academic qualifications do not meet the standard. For international students, meeting UK visa requirements is necessary, and proficiency in English with an IELTS score of 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in all components) is required.

English language test

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

Career prospects

Graduates will be equipped for a wide range of roles in the art and cultural sectors, such as curators, cultural consultants, editors, event managers, journalists, media arts project managers, and public relations specialists. The course also prepares students for further academic research, including MPhil or PhD studies in related fields. Practical experience through placements can enhance employability and industry connections.

FAQs

What are the tuition fees for the course?

The UK fees are £9,700 per academic year, and international fees are £17,500 per year. Fees are fixed and do not increase annually.

What are the entry requirements?

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in relevant disciplines is required. English language proficiency with IELTS 6.5 (with at least 6.0 in all components) is also necessary for non-native speakers.