Contemporary Art and Archaeology MA

Course code V470

What is special about this course?

This new MA programme is unique in the UK in linking the fields of contemporary art and archaeology. It encourages students to take a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to artmaking and research-led creative practice. Core modules will immerse you in an established, interdisciplinary community of practice which stretches from Orkney to the wider world. From crofting landscapes and ancient monuments to renewable energy and cutting-edge technology, the Highlands and Islands is where past, present and future meet, at the interface of the global and local.

This outward-looking MA embraces this setting by providing creative and interdisciplinary approaches to the scholarly study of material and visual culture, arts, and heritage. Specialist optional modules in both art and archaeology will allow you to build a bespoke MA which explores both the deep past of this fascinating region and plays a role in its sustainable, creative future.

This exciting course will allow you to explore, both independently and collaboratively, original and creative responses to current issues and develop your own practice as a uniquely interdisciplinary Contemporary Art and Archaeology practitioner.

Special features

  • Developed and directed by a specialist team of academics and visual artists based in Orkney, allowing access to world-famous archaeology
  • The only course of its kind to link contemporary art practice with archaeological study
  • The course is delivered online and can, therefore, be studied from anywhere in the world
  • Specialist optional modules in art and archaeology will allow you to tailor your course to your own interests 

Entry requirements

  • 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject
  • Students without formal qualifications, or with less than a 2:1 but with professional experience evidenced by their portfolio, will also be considered
  • You will also be required to submit a portfolio with evidence of work and attend an interview either in person, by phone, VC, or Skype

Access routes

Apply for Contemporary Art and Archaeology MA

I want to start in Aug/Sep 2025

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at the University of the Highlands and Islands. We operate a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of gender, age, disability, ethnicity and socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.