Graduate Diploma
Contemporary Art History
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Why study the Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History
The Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History is for graduates of other disciplines with an interest in contemporary art and ideas, and who wish to carry out research at higher levels in the fields of visual cultures. By studying this programme, you will build upon your existing knowledge and develop a greater independent and critical engagement in the fields of art and visual cultures.
- You'll investigate contemporary art, art theory and visual culture from around the world through an approach that is interdisciplinary, thematic, practice- and ideas-led rather than chronological.
- You will develop an independent approach to learning as well as a greater ability to think critically and creatively in order to prepare you for further study at a graduate level.
- You'll explore visual culture in all forms to broaden your outlook. You’ll not only examine the kinds of artefacts you might see in museums and art galleries, but also those that make up our everyday environment: architecture, city and landscapes, adverts, TV and film, websites, the body, and street style.
- Study at a top creative university based in vibrant South-East London, where you’ll discover everything from art spaces and studios to foodie pop-ups and markets.
- Our London location means you can take advantage of the many galleries, art spaces, museums, cultural facilities and specialist libraries the city has to offer.
- We encourage you to get involved in student-led activities and personal development projects.
- Many of our recent graduates have gone on to further study in the Department including MA Contemporary Art Theory, MA Research Architecture and MRes Advanced Practices, as well as other programmes across Goldsmiths.
- Our recent graduates have also gone on to work as curators and in other creative fields.
Contact the department
If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Alice Andrews.
Length
1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
Fees
Home - full-time: £7850
Home - part-time: £TBC
International - full-time: £19950
Department
What you'll study
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Histories of Art (Lecture and Lab) | 45 credits |
| Curating and the Curatorial | 15 credits |
| Inhabitations | 15 credits |
How you'll be assessed
Visual Cultures assessments are 100% coursework. Normally this consists of essays, sometimes accompanied by creative projects, group projects, multi-media projects, presentations, symposia, reviews, and studio work.
What our students say
Careers
Many of our students go on to carry out further postgraduate studies. These then lead into careers in:
- Museums and galleries
- Publishing
- Education
- The media
- Journalism
- Marketing
Skills
Some of the skills you'll develop during the programme include:
- Research
- Critical thinking
- Visual analysis
- Writing
- Communication and presentation
Entry requirements
You should normally have (or expect to be awarded) the following qualifications:
- An undergraduate degree of at least second-class standard in a relevant/related subject
We particularly encourage applications for the Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History from those who have a degree in an unrelated field, but can show that they have the relevant experience, ability and interest to work at a postgraduate level.
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.
If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.0 with a 6.0 in writing and no element lower than 5.5 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate study.
Fees and funding
Annual tuition fees
These are the PG fees for students starting their programme in the 2025/2026 academic year.
- Home - full-time: £7850
- Home - part-time: £TBC
- International - full-time: £19950
If your fees are not listed here, please check our postgraduate fees guidance or contact the Fees Office, who can also advise you about how to pay your fees.
It’s not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while being on another visa type, please contact our Admissions Team for more information.
If you are looking to pay your fees please see our guide to making a payment.
Funding opportunities
Explore the Goldsmiths scholarships finder to find out what funding you may be eligible for.
If you are a UK student you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan.
Meanwhile our Careers Service can also offer advice on finding work during your studies.
Paying your fees
Find out about paying your tuition fees.
Additional costs
In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page.
There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments. Please check the programme specification for more information.
How to apply
You apply directly to Goldsmiths using our online application system.
To complete your application, you will need to have:
- Details of your academic qualifications
- The email address of your referee who we can request a reference from, or alternatively a copy of your academic reference
- Copies of your educational transcripts or certificates
- A personal statement
You'll be able to save your progress at any point and return to your application by logging in using your username/email and password.
When to apply
We accept applications from October for students wanting to start the following September.
We encourage you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you haven't finished your current programme of study. It's very common to be offered a place that is conditional on you achieving a particular qualification.
Late applications will only be considered if there are spaces available.
Selection process
Admission to many programmes is by interview, unless you live outside the UK. Occasionally, we'll make candidates an offer of a place on the basis of their application and qualifications alone.
Further guidance
Read our guide to applying for a postgraduate degree at Goldsmiths.
