M.Phil. Art History

Course Description

This taught Masters course (1 year full–time or 2 years part–time) offers students a wide range of art-historical approaches to the art and architecture of Ireland and the abundant holdings of European and World art in Ireland. It is an opportunity to study modern and contemporary Irish art, the remarkable collections of medieval manuscripts in Dublin, the links between Irish and European art, and Ireland’s built heritage. The course provides students with the art-historical skills, methodologies, and theoretical approaches essential to advanced research, analysis, documentation, and digitisation. Throughout all modules, there is a strong emphasis on direct engagement with works of art in public and private collections. Students will be expected to think critically about the interpretation of objects using a range of methodological approaches and to conduct independent research. The M.Phil. in Art History is a unique opportunity to undertake advanced study in the history of art in Ireland and provides a strong foundation for those considering doctoral research or careers working in museums, galleries, and auction houses, as well as in education, cultural media and heritage.

A central element of the course is a module in research methods that explores the principal sources and methodologies applicable to advanced study in the history of art. In addition, students choose four electives that offer detailed engagement with particular periods and media. These modules cover subjects such as: Medieval Monastic Ireland; Interpreting Ireland’s Built Heritage; Ireland and France, 1800–2000; Themes and Agendas in Modern and Contemporary Irish Art; and Medieval Manuscripts in Irish Collections. The taught modules prepare students to undertake a substantial research dissertation of 15,000–20,000 words on a selected subject under the supervision of a member of staff.

Graduates of the course are well placed to pursue a multiplicity of career pathways, for example, in the museum and cultural sector, as media and public relations specialists, in publishing, public administration or business and, of course, teaching and research. For those already working in these sectors the course will enrich knowledge and skills, stimulate lateral thinking, and act as a spur to innovation.