Master
German
Arts & Design
History and Theory of Art and Design
Master of Arts (M.A.)
About the Program
The Master's program in History and Theory of Art and Design is jointly offered by the University of Duisburg-Essen and the Folkwang University of the Arts. Students study both at the Essen Campus of UDE and at the Folkwang University of the Arts' Campus Welterbe Zollverein. What makes this program special is that students benefit from the expertise of both the university and the art college. In the German-speaking world, this Master's program, in which art and design studies enter into dialogue, is unique. Unlike practice-oriented programs, the Master's program in Art and Design Studies imparts knowledge and skills for the scientific examination of artistic and design positions and their temporal location in the context of cultural, political and social processes. The objects of investigation are in art, design and also in current aesthetic phenomena. Everyday objects, non-artistic visual cultures and art and design mediation are also focal points. The research-oriented study program imparts in-depth knowledge of the historical and current contextualization of art or visual culture and design and enables students to use art and design scientific methods independently and reflectively in analysis. Students acquire the ability to develop questions independently oriented to current discussions and discourses. They are demonstrably enabled to critically classify current scientific findings and their communication in action processes. The profile of the Master's program is science-based and research-oriented. The program includes the possibility, actively supported by the institutions, to prepare for a doctorate and to complete it within a corresponding course of study at UDE and/or Folkwang University of the Arts.
▶ Show the original English text
The Master's program in History and Theory of Art and Design is jointly offered by the University of Duisburg-Essen and the Folkwang University of the Arts. Students study both at the Essen Campus of UDE and at the Folkwang University of the Arts' Campus Welterbe Zollverein. What makes this program special is that students benefit from the expertise of both the university and the art college. In the German-speaking world, this Master's program, in which art and design studies enter into dialogue, is unique. Unlike practice-oriented programs, the Master's program in Art and Design Studies imparts knowledge and skills for the scientific examination of artistic and design positions and their temporal location in the context of cultural, political and social processes. The objects of investigation are in art, design and also in current aesthetic phenomena. Everyday objects, non-artistic visual cultures and art and design mediation are also focal points. The research-oriented study program imparts in-depth knowledge of the historical and current contextualization of art or visual culture and design and enables students to use art and design scientific methods independently and reflectively in analysis. Students acquire the ability to develop questions independently oriented to current discussions and discourses. They are demonstrably enabled to critically classify current scientific findings and their communication in action processes. The profile of the Master's program is science-based and research-oriented. The program includes the possibility, actively supported by the institutions, to prepare for a doctorate and to complete it within a corresponding course of study at UDE and/or Folkwang University of the Arts.
Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?
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How do I apply to History and Theory of Art and Design at Universität Duisburg-Essen?
Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.
- Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
- Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
- Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
- Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about History and Theory of Art and Design at Universität Duisburg-Essen
Is History and Theory of Art and Design at Universität Duisburg-Essen taught in German or English? ▼
This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.
How much does the History and Theory of Art and Design programme cost? ▼
No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.
What are the admission requirements for History and Theory of Art and Design at Universität Duisburg-Essen? ▼
Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).
When is the application deadline? ▼
Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.
Can I work in Germany while studying History and Theory of Art and Design? ▼
Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.
How do I apply to Universität Duisburg-Essen — directly or via uni-assist? ▼
Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.