University of York

What you'll study

The programme develops advanced knowledge of art-historical methods alongside focused study of dress and fashion as historical and cultural phenomena. Teaching mixes fortnightly seminars, research workshops and individual supervision. Core components typically include:

• Research methods and historiography – approaches to visual and material culture research, archival practice, object-based study and critical theory.
• History of dress and fashion – thematic modules on dress and identity, fashion and modernity, consumer cultures, and the global circulation of styles.
• Visual culture and exhibition studies – interpretation of images, display strategies, and the relationship between museums, galleries and fashion.
• Material culture and textiles – close study of garments, textiles and conservation considerations, often incorporating object handling and case studies.
• Optional modules – students can choose electives across the Department and related centres (for example museum studies, contemporary art, or gender studies) to tailor their pathway.
• Major research project / dissertation – an independent, supervised dissertation that allows students to pursue original research on a topic in history of art or fashion history, supported by training in archival research and source criticism.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in history of art, history, fashion studies, cultural studies or a related humanities or social science discipline. Those with relevant professional experience in museums, galleries, archives or the fashion industry may also be considered. Candidates will be assessed on academic transcripts, references and a statement of purpose; some applicants are asked to submit a sample of written work or an outline research proposal.

International applicants must satisfy the University's English language requirements (evidence of proficiency such as IELTS or equivalent is usually required).

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of roles across the arts, heritage and fashion sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Museum and gallery roles: curatorial assistant, collections management, exhibitions officer or outreach/education posts.
• Heritage and archives: catalogue work, conservation support, archive management and interpretation.
• Fashion and cultural industries: research and trend analysis, fashion curation, archive projects for designers and brands, and roles in publishing.
• Academic and research routes: progression to doctoral study in history of art, fashion history or related disciplines.
• Arts administration and public engagement: fundraising, programming and digital interpretation for cultural organisations.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers a research-active environment with staff working across art history, visual culture and material culture, providing strong supervision for fashion-related projects. The programme benefits from York's proximity to city museums and services, facilitating placements, object-based learning and collaborative projects with local collections and archives.

Students also have access to the University's library Special Collections, archival resources and interdisciplinary research centres, enabling sustained work on primary sources and textiles. Small-group seminars and one-to-one supervision ensure focused training in research skills, preparing graduates for professional and academic careers in the cultural sector.