MA Art Theory emphasises the importance of practice in the development of theory. Just as contemporary art practices often integrate theory, MA Art Theory considers practice as the starting point for the emergence of new analytical and interpretative tools. As such theory is taken as more than an explanatory framework for art practice: it becomes a practice in itself. Deployed in a variety of registers, theory draws on the textual, the performative, the poetic, the philosophical, the political and the scientific. Moreover, MA Art Theory acknowledges the relationship of 'theory' to many histories, going beyond European and North American traditions.

The Course is aimed at people with an active interest in visual arts. Those with an emergent interest in art practice, criticism, exhibitions, education, policy and curating are as welcome as established practitioners who wish to use their practices to enhance their theoretical reflection and exploration. Students will become familiar with fundamental historical trends in art theory, as these intersect with art history, critical theory and philosophy. This will enable students to discuss and recast aspects of their work in relation to contemporary theoretical debates.

MA Art Theory works closely with MA Art Curating drawing on the existing resources of the three Colleges, including Chelsea Space, Peckham Space, and the libraries, archives and special collections of Chelsea, Camberwell and Wimbledon Colleges. Alongside these resources, students are encouraged to seek alternative means of expanding the scope of their research by forging ties to venues and publishing or broadcast outlets. To facilitate the students' immersion in London's dense networks of spaces and people, and in order to support the identification of the form of the final project, visits will be organised to archives, galleries, museums and fairs.

Throughout the course students are exposed to potential collaborators, employers and prominent practitioners, through the visiting lecture series and established links with UK and international academic and cultural institutions. MA Art Theory will enhance the students' employability by granting them fluency in debates that affect all areas of the cultural sector, from art practice and criticism to curating and independent theoretical production. Students graduating from MA Art Theory will possess an edge in applying for grants and residencies; for those seeking to transition to more research-based projects, including further study at PhD level, MA Art Theory would constitute a distinct advantage.

The course will be delivered through a combination of a core methodology lecture series, seminars on specific issues, presentations by visiting scholar and an open reading group. Students will be encouraged to participate in cross-course crits, and establish cross-College collaborative relationships. The course's three-part structure culminates in a final project, demonstrating significant engagement and original research on the part of the student.

Phase 1: Analysis of Practice and Exploration of Methodologies
In Phase 1, students will be introduced to major historical strands of art theory, with a focus on how the complex relationship between these two terms has evolved over time.

Phase 2: Development and Consolidation
In Phase 2, students will become familiar with key theoretical positions in contemporary cultural discussions, and begin to formulate original theoretical perspectives in relation to these discussions and their own practices.

Phase 3: Resolution
In Phase 3, students will work towards and complete a final project, which can take a number of forms beyond the essay, such as public engagements (published or broadcast interviews, performances, online seminars) and artistic production.

Throughout the course students will be exposed to potential collaborators, employers and prominent practitioners, through the visiting lecture series and established links with UK and international academic and cultural institutions. The MA Art Theory will enhance the students' employability by granting them fluency in debates that affect all areas of the cultural sector, from art practice and criticism to curating and independent theoretical production. Students graduating from MA Art Theory will also possess an edge in applying for grants and residencies. For those seeking to transition to more research-based projects, including further study at PhD level, the MA Art Theory would constitute an advantage.

• An honours degree or equivalent academic / professional qualification.
• A 800-1000 word study proposal, outlining the applicant's interest in theoretical production and how their practice might benefit/contribute to the course.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must show proof of IELTS level 6.5 and a minimum of 5.5 in reading, listening, writing and speaking. The University also accepts other tests. Please see the University English tests page for the equivalent scores required in these tests.
• The College takes into consideration prior learning, alternative qualifications and experience.

How to Apply

Home/EU Applicants

You can download an application form below:

CCW Graduate School Application Form

Completed forms, including your study proposal, reference & portfolio (if required) can be returned by post to: 

CCW Graduate School Admissions
16 John Islip Street
London
SW1P 4JU

Or you can submit your form electronically to ccwgraduateschool@arts.ac.uk

International Applicants
Please visit the CCW International Apply page to download an application form or contact the CCW International Office.
T: +44 (0)20 7514 1852
E: ccwinternational@arts.ac.uk

Application Deadlines
UK & EU applicants: 2 July 2012
International: No official deadline, but you are advised to apply as soon as possible.

What happens next?
Applications will be reviewed against the entry requirements and selection criteria for the course. You may then be invited to attend an interview at the College on a set day, with your full portfolio if applicable.