The Art Theory (Honours) program is a one-year advanced undergraduate degree for high achieving students who have completed an undergraduate degree in art history, art theory, visual culture or equivalent.
Duration 1 year full-time
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Art Theory (Honours) is a one-year advanced undergraduate degree for high-achieving students. It may be undertaken after completion of an undergraduate pass degree in art history, art theory or equivalent. The degree enables students to expand and deepen their knowledge and understanding of art theory, and to develop analytical, problem-solving and research skills through undertaking a significant independent research thesis. The degree may be a pathway to a MPhil or PhD.
Program Structure
Under the guidance of an assigned supervisor, students work on their research thesis throughout the year. In term 1, students also study DART4300 Contemporary Art Theories and Methods, and in term 2, students have the option to complete either an upper-level art theory course (subject to approval by the program authority) or ADAD4000 Professional Experience Project.
The Honours research culminates in a 15,000-18,000 word thesis on an approved topic in art history/theory. Students work with their assigned supervisor to refine and research their chosen topic. Students receive feedback and guidance through regular meetings with their supervisor, as well as advice from the program authority via face-to-face meetings and email correspondence.
The final thesis is assessed by two examiners, one internal and one external to Art & Design.
Entry Requirements
Applicants are required to have completed (or to be eligible to complete) a Bachelor of Art Theory or other bachelors degree in art history, art theory, visual culture, cultural studies, or related fields. Applicants may be graduates either of UNSW or another recognised institution.
A weighted average mark (WAM) or equivalent of 70 or higher is an entry requirement.
Applications should be submitted via the UNSW Apply Online portal and include a 500-word research proposal sent directly to the Program Authority, Dr. Grant Stevens (grant.stevens@unsw.edu.au). This proposal should outline the topic and area of interest so that an appropriate supervisor can be assigned.
Admission is subject to the WAM requirements as well as supervisory capacity in the Faculty as determined by the Program Authority.
For further enquiries please contact Dr. Grant Stevens or the UNSW Art & Design Student Centre.
Career Opportunities
Graduates develop a deeper understanding practice and research in art theory, providing pathways to higher-degree research programs at Masters or PhD level and an array of careers in the arts and cultural sectors.
Our graduates are highly sought after for a range of careers as thinkers, curators, producers, publishers, innovators, policy makers and future leaders.
Graduates find employment in areas including:
- Arts and cultural management, policy making and administration
- Art and design criticism, communications and journalism
- Galleries, libraries, archives, museums
- Creative direction, planning and production
- Curatorship, festival, event and museum management
- Cultural and creative research and scholarship
- Media industries, publishing and distribution
- Public programming and engagement
- Entrepreneurship, strategy, creative consultancy and start-ups
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for or would like to speak with one of our advisors, please don’t hesitate to contact us