History of Photography with Curating MA

Birkbeck, University of London

Photography has become the major form of image-making and visual communication since its development in the nineteenth century. Its importance has been recognised in many areas of scholarship: history of art, media and cultural studies, literature, memory and memorialisation, gender and identity, philosophy and law. Its role in all fields of the arts and sciences, including those most personal, is being expanded, renewed and questioned by contemporary digital cultures. Our MA History of Photography with Curating enables you to learn about - and to negotiate your individual path through - past and present photographic practices and cultures, in order to develop your interests, whether your engagement with the medium is academic, artistic, personal or vocational. The Curating pathway will help you acquire high-level foundational skills and a solid grasp of key issues in curating practice. You will gain an insight into the different working practices of various museums and galleries and a broad understanding of the role and responsibilities of the curator within the modern museum and gallery context. This degree offers you the opportunity to study with internationally recognised experts. Our teaching staff are defining the field, conducting groundbreaking research in the history and theory of photography in its various uses and manifestations. You will work closely with our staff while also benefiting from our diverse and vibrant student body of all ages and backgrounds. The teaching is enriched by the international research culture of the History and Theory of Photography Research Centre.

School of Historical Studies