Theory and History of Arts

Programme description

The programme preserves the classical traditions of the St Petersburg school of history and the academic nature of teaching. The curriculum successfully combines the traditions of classical historical education with the modern approaches and tasks of history science. Students acquire in-depth theoretical knowledge in the humanities related to the research and academic area of study ‘History and Archaeology'
The programme is unique in that it provides an understanding of the history of arts as part of historical studies. This is ensured by in-depth courses in the history of Russia and general history. Students study the methods and approaches typical of the school of art history which has developed within the University over a century and a half
The programme is aimed at training art historians with advanced research skills and analytical thinking, who can apply the methodological tools of modern art history and related sciences
Graduates of the programme meet the basic requirements in various fields of professional activity and can therefore be competitive in the labour market. They acquire the whole set of knowledge and competences necessary for this, and are capable of applying the gained academic and practical skills to various fields of activity: research, museum, display and exhibition, gallery, antiquarian and tour guide fields
A wide range of experience with potential employers enables graduates to adapt to the current labour market conditions

Main courses

Our advantages

Students are involved in the professional environment and direct contact with the objects of research due to St Petersburg's status as the museum capital of Russia and one of the leading museum centres in Europe
The curriculum combines classroom and practical training, field workshops, three field trips and a museum internship
Graduates acquire unique competences in the history and theory of Russian and Western European art
The programme provides an opportunity to be well-versed in the current aesthetic and artistic issues, and contemporary artistic practice
Graduates acquire the skills to carry out research, educational, cultural, expert, analytical, organisational and managerial activities related to art history
The academic programme has been designed taking into account professional standards and the views of employers on the correlation of graduates' competencies and job functions in their professional activities

International relations

Practical training and career opportunities

Training involves the following internships:

Professions