Contemporary Art History Goldsmiths, University of London

Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History at Goldsmiths, University of London is a preparatory postgraduate programme designed to introduce students to key theories, methods and debates in contemporary art history. It provides foundational academic training through critical study of art and visual culture, enabling students to develop research, writing and analytical skills that support further postgraduate study in art history, curatorial practice and related disciplines.

Why Contemporary Art History at Goldsmiths?

Goldsmiths, University of London, holds a prestigious position, being ranked 12th globally for art history according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023. This recognition highlights the university's international reputation in the field. Situated in the vibrant area of New Cross, students benefit from easy access to some of the world's most renowned galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary study fosters a rich learning environment, encouraging students to engage with both historical and contemporary art practices.

The Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History is tailored for individuals holding degrees in various fields who wish to delve into contemporary art and its theoretical frameworks. This programme equips students with the necessary skills to critically analyse and engage with visual cultures. The curriculum is designed to be thematic and ideas-led, allowing students to explore contemporary art from a global perspective rather than a strictly chronological one.

Students will cultivate an independent approach to learning, enhancing their ability to think critically and creatively, which prepares them for advanced studies or professional roles in the arts. The programme emphasises the exploration of visual culture in diverse forms, including artefacts found in museums, architecture, urban landscapes, advertisements, television, film, websites, and street style. This broad approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of the visual elements that shape our everyday experiences.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History are as follows:

• National students: £8,250 per year for full-time study
• International students: £20,950 per year for full-time study

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme includes a mix of compulsory and optional modules, allowing for a tailored educational experience. Key modules include:

• Histories of Art (Lecture and Lab)
• Curating and the Curatorial
• Inhabitations

Students will also select additional optional modules worth 45 credits from a provided list by the Visual Cultures department. Assessment is entirely coursework-based, encompassing essays, creative projects, presentations, and other forms of multimedia work.

Careers with Contemporary Art History

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History often pursue further studies, leading to advanced programmes such as the MA in Contemporary Art Theory, MA in Research Architecture, and MRes in Advanced Practices at Goldsmiths. Many alumni find employment in various creative sectors, including curatorial positions, publishing, education, media, marketing, and journalism. The skills acquired during the programme—such as research, critical thinking, visual analysis, and effective communication—are highly valued in these fields, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in the arts and beyond.