MA History of Art with Collections Management

This unique course combines the study of art history with practical experience in collections management. Students will gain a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and social contexts of art, as well as the skills necessary to manage and preserve collections in museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical placements, students will learn how to analyze, interpret, and present art historical research, while also developing their critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. The course is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in the cultural sector, including museums, galleries, auction houses, and arts organizations.

Additional Information

The course will cover topics such as art historical research methods, collection management principles, exhibitions design, and curatorial practice. Students will have the opportunity to visit major museums and galleries in London, as well as participate in workshops and seminars with industry professionals. The course will also provide opportunities for students to engage in internships or placements with cultural institutions, gaining valuable hands-on experience in collections management.

Join Birkbeck University of London for an unparalleled learning experience. Our department is dedicated to providing cutting-edge research and teaching in the history of art and design, with a particular focus on the interdisciplinary study of art and its relationship to culture, society, and politics.

Birkbeck University of London is a world-class institution with a strong reputation for research and teaching excellence. The Department of History of Art and Design is particularly renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to the study of art, as well as its innovative teaching methods. Students on this course will benefit from the expertise of leading scholars and practitioners in the field, as well as access to a vast range of cultural institutions and resources in London.

Our MA History of Art with Collections Management will absorb you in the rich and dynamic discipline of the history of art as well as prepare you with the skills and experience you need for the museum workplace with an intensive skills-based Collections Management module.

You will gain a solid grasp of the key issues and fundamental skills involved in collections management and an insight into the different working practices of various museums and galleries. During an intensive week studying current issues and practices in collections management, you will benefit from meeting curators and collections managers in London's museum and galleries sector and engaging in hands-on activities including documentation, cataloging, and issuing loan requests.

You will also have the opportunity to undertake a 10-week supervised work placement in one of London's thriving museums, galleries, or archives. Previous work placements have been offered at the Tate, British Museum, Whitechapel Gallery, and Horniman Museum. Past students have documented collections that were previously uncatalogued, helped design and run school programs, conducted visitor research, and assisted curators in producing exhibitions.

Graduates can pursue career paths in the creative arts, media, and education. Possible professions include:

museum/gallery curator

arts administrator

advertising account executive

community arts worker

multimedia specialist

higher education lecturer.

Read how undertaking our MA in History of Art helped one student secure her dream job at Tate Britain.

We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.

A second-class honors degree (2:2 or above).

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.