This exciting interdisciplinary master's programme combines philosophical aesthetics, art theory and hands-on experience in galleries and museums, bringing together both theoretical and practical interests.
Introduction
This course is specifically designed to equip you with the competence to pursue either a doctorate programme in the Arts and Humanities, or a professional career in the cultural sector.
The programme is structured around four compulsory core modules: Main Topics in the theory of art, in which members of staff lead weekly seminars on their own current research. Cultural Institutions, which takes places at a range of collaborating cultural institutions around the city, including the University’s Victoria Gallery and Museum. Research, Employability, and Professional Skills and placement, supported by the careers and employability service and our cultural partners, and a supervised dissertation or case study over the summer.
Students also take three elective modules chosen from a list of relevant modules available in the Department and across the University.
The programme also offers the opportunity to apply for a three-month studentship with Tate Liverpool, exclusively offered to our students.
What you'll learn
Central themes in aesthetic theory, artistic and institutional practice
How to consider art from the perspective of a cultural institution
The conceptual framework to consider the theoretical implications of the practical uses of museum and curatorial space
The role of cultural institutions in wider cultural and social patterns
Practical experience of work in a cultural institution
An understanding of how cultural institutions function
How to conduct research into your area of interest.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
If you're able to study part-time, you'll
study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You
can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule
around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you
complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final
dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements
at graduation the following term.
Studying part-time means you can study alongside work or any
other life commitments. You will
study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You
can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule
around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you
complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final
dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements
at graduation the following term.
Semester one
A range of optional modules is available from the Philosophy department, and the School of the Arts, including:
Compulsory modules
Aesthetic Theory and Practice (PHIL755)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
The module introduces central themes in aesthetic theory, artistic and institutional practice, as considered by current staff actively researching them. This research-led module serves both to introduce students with no previous detailed knowledge of the areas studied to such issues, and to show how active researchers approach them while actively engaging students themselves in research methodology and practices. The module thus functions both as a research-preparation module and a module for consolidating knowledge in these areas of philosophy. Students have the opportunity to consider aspects of the theoretical/historical background of the study of contemporary aesthetics and concentrate on the exploration of key concepts in modern and postmodern aesthetics and cultural practice.
M.A. DISSERTATION (PHIL706)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: whole session
Students will write a dissertation (15,000 words, maximum) on a topic that they have researched in depth, under the guidance of their supervisors. There will also be two seminar sessions focusing on the development of dissertation preparation and writing skills.
Optional modules
AESTHETICS (PHIL716)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module intends to facilitate in-depth understanding of central themes of aesthetics and art theory, especially questions about aesthetic judgement, aesthetic experience and aesthetic value. Students will be able to further their knowledge of the history of philosophy as well as the connection between theory and artistic practice. The module is taught by seminar 1 hour per week; students are also advised to attend the PHIL 306 Aesthetics lecture 1 hour per week. Assessment is via a 3,000 essay. Students also take it in turns to give one 10-15 minute presentation in class, formative assessment.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Semester two
Compulsory modules
Cultural Institutions (PHIL759)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the theories, processes and practical conditions which result in exhibitions of art within cultural institutions. The relationship between the artist, art, curator and institution will be addressed. The module includes issues of curation, as well as the broader functions of the cultural institution, such as collecting, education, and marketing. The place of cultural institutions in broader cultural and social structures within society will also be considered by students. Students attend a 2-day curating skills workshop at Victoria Gallery and Museum and further two workshops at local cultural institutions. They also receive study support sessions. Assessment is by a 15-20 minute group oral presentation, and a 6,000 word essay.
RESEARCH SKILLS, EMPLOYABILITY AND PLACEMENT (PHIL758)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
The module gives students the opportunity to experience practical experience of work in a cultural institution.
M.A. DISSERTATION (PHIL706)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: whole session
Students will write a dissertation (15,000 words, maximum) on a topic that they have researched in depth, under the guidance of their supervisors. There will also be two seminar sessions focusing on the development of dissertation preparation and writing skills.
Optional modules
PHILOSOPHY OF FILM (PHIL757)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module considers what it is to think philosophically about the nature of film. It critically discusses philosophical approaches to the medium. It examines the thinking of philosophers, critics and filmmakers on vital issues encountered when discussing film as art. It considers the importance of film and its relation to other art forms. It familiarises students with works by key filmmakers, and encourages students to engage with these works. The module will enhance students’ abilities to think critically about fundamental issues surrounding film, and about what philosophers, critics and filmmakers have said about the medium. It is taught through weekly seminars (1 hour per week) and film screenings. Assessment is by one 3,000 word essay.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Final project
Compulsory modules
M.A. DISSERTATION (PHIL706)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: whole session
Students will write a dissertation (15,000 words, maximum) on a topic that they have researched in depth, under the guidance of their supervisors. There will also be two seminar sessions focusing on the development of dissertation preparation and writing skills.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
How you'll learn
Teaching includes theoretical training and hands-on experience within cultural institutions. The practical workshops are delivered in partnership with museums and galleries in Liverpool. Each student also completes a ten-day placement with a cultural institution partner.
Theoretical training is delivered through small-class seminars, which prioritise creative exchange of opinions. You will get feedback on your writing, and presentation skills, as well as dedicated career advice in our careers workshops.
How you're assessed
Assessment is by submitted coursework; there are no exams. Other assessment methods also include group presentations, a reflective log on your placement, and a dissertation.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Department of Philosophy is based in the School of the Arts. Our staff and students have created an environment where critical, independent thinking flourishes, in a city that has a long tradition of welcoming radical thinkers and philosophers. Our friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere makes the exchange of ideas enjoyable, as well as intellectually stimulating.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
Why study Philosophy at Liverpool?
Our students’ study some of the most profound questions facing humankind, in a city renowned for its rich history of culture, protest and philosophical debate
Our friendly, down-to earth atmosphere makes the exchange of ideas enjoyable as well as intellectually stimulating
We have a long history of combining research excellence in core areas of philosophy with innovative work at the frontiers of the discipline: from literature to spirituality, Chinese philosophy to animal ethics, neo-Platonism to feminism
Ranked 4th in the sector for outstanding (4*) research impact (REF 2021)
PHILOS-L. Established in 1989, PHILOS-L is the largest Philosophy mailing list in the world. The list boasts over 13,000 members in over 60 countries
We work as part of our amazing city; working with partners in the Bluecoat Gallery, Tate Liverpool, National Museums Liverpool, NHS and more to inspire our thinking and the practices of our communities
The theoretical parts of this programme acquaint you with the key issues facing the cultural world, while the guaranteed placement immediately adds experience to your CV. While on the programme, you’ll begin to build your professional arts network, and meet many curators and other arts professionals teaching on it.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Graduates of the MA Art, Philosophy and Cultural Institutions have gone on to a variety of careers within the cultural sector including
Curating
Development
Marketing
Teaching.
Our recent alumni have been placed with:
Tate Britain
Open Eye Gallery
Liverpool Biennial,
Somerset House
Aand many other arts charities and museums nationally and internationally.
Dedicated funding is available to our MA students (via our Research and Professional Skills Fund), which allows you to put on exhibitions, organise zines, or partake in other activities that enhance employability. Each year, one student is granted the Tate Studentship, which provides a unique 3-month placement with Tate Liverpool.
As well as pursuing careers in the arts, other MA graduates have continued their studies through a PhD, be it in an art-related subjects or philosophy. Depending on the modules you choose, the programme gives you a basis for several PhD subjects.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£10,000
Part-time place, per year
£5,000
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£21,400
Part-time place, per year
£10,700
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
You will normally need a 2:1 honours degree, or above, or equivalent. This degree should be in a relevant subject.
You should submit a personal statement as part of your application. This should summarise why you wish to study the programme, outline relevant personal experience, and highlight particular aspects of the programme that you find interesting.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
