Master of Arts in Art (Creative) and Art History, University of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky

24 Months

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About this course

The Master of Arts in Art (Creative) and Art History is offered by the Department of Art and Design, endowed as the Hite Institute of Art and Design at the University of Louisville. This program provides students with a comprehensive curriculum consisting of 31 credit hours, split between core courses and specialized concentrations in Art History or Critical & Curatorial Studies. It combines theoretical, practical, and research components, supported by resources like campus galleries, collaborations with local museums, and lectures by prominent curators and artists. The program prepares students for further graduate study or careers in museum work, arts management, or art criticism, emphasizing both historical knowledge and contemporary practice.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program stands out due to its robust resources, including multiple campus galleries and partnerships with local art institutions, providing students with hands-on experiences. The opportunity to study diverse art periods and regions, along with practical exhibition work, helps prepare students for a range of careers or further graduate work. The faculty’s active schedule of lectures, colloquia, and international guest speakers enriches the learning environment, making it ideal for students passionate about deepening their understanding of art history or developing curatorial expertise.

Specialisation

Students can choose between two concentrations: Art History and Critical & Curatorial Studies. The Art History concentration offers in-depth coursework in various historical periods and regions, requiring proficiency in a foreign language and culminating in a research thesis. The Critical & Curatorial Studies concentration emphasizes contemporary art, exhibition development, and theory, finishing with an exhibition or curatorial project. Both paths integrate academic coursework with practical and research experiences tailored to careers in museums, galleries, or academia.

Course fees

Application fees

25.24L

1st year tuition fees

25.24L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To earn the MA, students must complete 31 credit hours, including a mix of core courses and specialization courses. The Art History concentration requires demonstrating competence in a foreign language, with the thesis comprising a research paper defended in an oral exam. The Critical & Curatorial Studies concentration involves producing a thesis exhibition or curatorial project, including documentation and a written narrative, with a final presentation approved by the department.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

105

IELTS

6.5

Career prospects

Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in museums, galleries, arts organizations, and academic institutions. The focus on research, curatorial practices, and practical exhibition experience offers a strong foundation for roles such as curators, art historians, gallery managers, or arts administrators. The program also prepares students for further graduate studies, including doctoral research in art history or arts management.

FAQs

What are the language requirements for the Art History concentration?

Students must demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language during their first year, either through an examination or by completing the intermediate level at the university with a B or better.

Can I accelerate my degree with undergraduate credits?

Yes, students in the BA track in Art History can apply for an accelerated BA/MA pathway, taking graduate courses during their final undergraduate year to count toward both degrees.