Carleton University

Overview

The Master of Arts in Art and Architectural History at Carleton University delves into the intricate realms of visual culture, art institutions, and the historical and theoretical frameworks that influence our interpretations of art and architecture. This program combines rigorous graduate coursework with hands-on practicum experiences in museums and galleries throughout Ottawa, equipping students with essential research and professional skills for careers in the cultural sector.

What you'll study

The MA program offers a well-rounded blend of core graduate training and specialized study. Students engage in required graduate-level courses and can choose from a variety of electives to deepen their knowledge in areas such as curatorial practice, digital humanities, and both modern and pre-modern visual culture.

Core graduate coursework includes:

• Art and Its Institutions
• Topics in Historiography, Methodology and Criticism
• Perspectives on Pre-Modernity
• Feminism and Gender
• Topics in Modern and Contemporary Art
• Community/Identity

Possible thematic areas and electives:

• Aboriginal Art and Collecting Practices
• Asian Art and Transnational Theory
• Canadian Visual Culture
• History and Theory of Photography
• Western European Visual Culture
• Museum Exhibition Theory and Practice
• History and Theory of Architecture
• Digital Humanities
• Curatorial Studies

Practicum / professional learning: The program incorporates practicum-oriented training linked to cultural organizations in Ottawa, providing students with invaluable real-world experience.

Specialization options: Students may also opt for a collaborative specialization in Digital Humanities or pursue a graduate diploma pathway in Curatorial Studies.

Entry requirements

• An honours bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in art history or a related field, with a minimum academic standing of B+.
• Related fields may encompass disciplines such as anthropology, history, and Canadian studies.
• Applicants lacking a background in art history may need to complete designated undergraduate art history courses.

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 86 is required (or an equivalent accepted score).

Other requirements

• All students must demonstrate a reading knowledge of French (or another language approved by the Art History graduate supervisor).

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Art and Architectural History program are well-prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities within the cultural sector. Potential career paths include roles in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, art consultancy, and academia. The program’s emphasis on research and practical experience ensures that students are equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in these dynamic fields.