On this Master’s programme, you learn to interpret, analyse and write about design—connecting design history and theory to questions of identity, ecology, gender and power. You examine how design meanings change across cultures, users and contexts, culminating in a thesis on Design Cultures.
The Master’s programme in Arts and Culture with a specialization in Design Cultures at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an in-depth exploration of design, linking historical and theoretical frameworks to contemporary issues such as identity, ecology, gender, and power. This 12-month full-time programme focuses on understanding how design meanings shift across various cultures, users, and contexts, culminating in a comprehensive thesis on Design Cultures.
The curriculum integrates academic courses in design cultures with research training, ultimately leading to the Master’s thesis. Key components of the programme include:
Thesis requirement: Students are required to complete a Master’s thesis in Design Cultures, showcasing their ability to conduct independent research, perform critical analysis, and demonstrate academic writing proficiency.
Applicants should possess a relevant academic Bachelor’s degree that is comparable to a Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree from a research university, typically requiring a nominal duration of three years. The programme is geared towards individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in Humanities or Social Sciences, particularly those with a focus on the histories and theories of design, fashion, or material culture. Candidates holding degrees in other fields such as history, media and communication studies, anthropology, sociology, or cultural studies may also be eligible, provided they have a concentration in design, fashion, art, visual, or material culture (minimum of 30 ECTS credits). Students demonstrating a strong historical and theoretical interest in design are especially encouraged to apply.
Graduates of the Arts and Culture – Design Cultures programme can anticipate diverse career opportunities in various sectors. They may pursue roles in design research, cultural policy, exhibition curation, academic teaching, or consultancy within the creative industries. The programme equips students with the analytical and research skills necessary to navigate and contribute to the ever-evolving field of design and culture.
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