The MSc by Research programme is for students with a good general knowledge of the subject area, who wish to focus their interests and deepen their knowledge of a specific topic.

To complete the programme students will normally submit two independent research essays (5,000 words each) on topics chosen in consultation with their supervisor.

During semesters 1 and 2, students are also required to complete:

the History of Art core course Research Theories and Methods (which is assessed via a 3,000-word essay)
one further course (which may be chosen from a broad range of taught postgraduate option courses, assessed by a 4,000-word essay, or a credit-bearing language course or other suitable option)
At the end of the summer, students are required to submit a 15,000-word dissertation.