History of Art and Visual Culture
The Master of Studies in History of Art and Visual Culture at the University of Oxford is a full-time, 9-month program designed for students who wish to explore the relationship between art, visual culture, and society. This program delves into the evolution of art history, visual media, and cultural representation, with a particular focus on the intersection of art, politics, and social change. Students will examine key movements in Western and non-Western art, the development of visual languages, and how art influences and reflects historical narratives, identity, and global cultural exchange.
Oxford’s MSt in History of Art and Visual Culture combines theoretical study with practical analysis, offering students the opportunity to engage with artistic movements, visual media, and the role of visual culture in shaping contemporary society. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in art history, museum curation, art galleries, cultural consultancy, or academic research in the field of visual culture.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Studies (MSt) in History of Art and Visual Culture
- Degree Type: Master of Studies (MSt)
- Duration: 9 Months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Start Date: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: Visual Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
The MSt in History of Art and Visual Culture consists of core modules in art history, theory of visual culture, and museum studies, with a focus on Western and non-Western art traditions. Students will study major artistic movements, such as Renaissance, Baroque, Modernism, and Contemporary Art, while also exploring the role of visual media in areas such as film, photography, and digital arts. The program offers specialized modules on art theory, visual representation, curation, and art criticism, providing students with the skills to engage critically with both historic art and contemporary visual culture. The program culminates in a research dissertation, where students will explore an aspect of art history or visual culture in depth.
Career Opportunities
The MSt in History of Art and Visual Culture consists of core modules in art history, theory of visual culture, and museum studies, with a focus on Western and non-Western art traditions. Students will study major artistic movements, such as Renaissance, Baroque, Modernism, and Contemporary Art, while also exploring the role of visual media in areas such as film, photography, and digital arts. The program offers specialized modules on art theory, visual representation, curation, and art criticism, providing students with the skills to engage critically with both historic art and contemporary visual culture. The program culminates in a research dissertation, where students will explore an aspect of art history or visual culture in depth.
Why Choose This Program
The MSt in History of Art and Visual Culture at the University of Oxford offers a unique opportunity to study visual culture and art history at one of the world’s leading institutions in cultural studies and theory. Oxford’s Department of History of Art provides access to renowned scholars, extensive museum collections, and cutting-edge research in visual culture. The program’s interdisciplinary approach combines theoretical learning, practical training, and critical analysis, ensuring that students are well-equipped to engage with both traditional art forms and contemporary visual media. Graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the fields of museum studies, curatorial practice, and art research.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)1865 270000
Email: admissions@ox.ac.uk
Address: University of Oxford, University Parks, Oxford OX1 2JD, United Kingdom
