12 monthsProgramme duration
Programme overview
Main Subject
Art History
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
The academic discipline of “Art History” teaches students to understand the significance of works of art in their historical contexts. Art history should not be equated with art appreciation or art criticism, activities that seek mainly to evaluate and explain the relative “beauty” or “value” of an artwork through discussion of form and subjective experience. Rather, art historians engage in critical, historical inquiry into the meaning and function of visual media. Art history teaches visual literacy which helps practitioners to recognize the ways in which images communicate and shape human perceptions about history, society, politics, religion and culture. An active interest in and/or familiarity with major historical epochs and events as well as the methods of historical inquiry and research is therefore necessary for anyone considering the study of art history.
Why study a MA in Art History?
Our HKU Master of Arts in Art History (MAAH) programme is the first MA in Hong Kong to focus on art history. Our unique programme delivers research-based teaching by world-class scholars, and is designed to empower students to acquire specialized knowledge and skills for further academic study, professional careers in the arts or other related creative industries.
It is important to understand that our programme is not primarily a curatorial studies programme, nor does it focus on navigating the art market. We do include training in a number of curatorial skills that are essential for work in museums and galleries, but these are just part of the larger academic curriculum, which emphasizes art historical research, theory, and writing.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Art History
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
The academic discipline of “Art History” teaches students to understand the significance of works of art in their historical contexts. Art history should not be equated with art appreciation or art criticism, activities that seek mainly to evaluate and explain the relative “beauty” or “value” of an artwork through discussion of form and subjective experience. Rather, art historians engage in critical, historical inquiry into the meaning and function of visual media. Art history teaches visual literacy which helps practitioners to recognize the ways in which images communicate and shape human perceptions about history, society, politics, religion and culture. An active interest in and/or familiarity with major historical epochs and events as well as the methods of historical inquiry and research is therefore necessary for anyone considering the study of art history.
Why study a MA in Art History?
Our HKU Master of Arts in Art History (MAAH) programme is the first MA in Hong Kong to focus on art history. Our unique programme delivers research-based teaching by world-class scholars, and is designed to empower students to acquire specialized knowledge and skills for further academic study, professional careers in the arts or other related creative industries.
It is important to understand that our programme is not primarily a curatorial studies programme, nor does it focus on navigating the art market. We do include training in a number of curatorial skills that are essential for work in museums and galleries, but these are just part of the larger academic curriculum, which emphasizes art historical research, theory, and writing.
Admission Requirements
- Candidates are required to submit references or letter(s) of recommendation for acceptance
- Candidates are required to submit an essay(s) for acceptance
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
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