Psychology of the Arts, Neuroaesthetics and Creativity Goldsmiths, University of London

Overview

Why Psychology of the Arts, Neuroaesthetics and Creativity at Goldsmiths?

Goldsmiths, University of London, offers a pioneering MSc in Psychology of the Arts, Neuroaesthetics and Creativity, recognised as the first postgraduate programme globally dedicated to the scientific study of aesthetics and creativity. The university holds a prestigious reputation in both the arts and sciences, making it an ideal institution for this interdisciplinary course. The programme is designed to bridge the gap between artistic expression and scientific inquiry, equipping students with the skills to explore how humans generate innovative ideas and appreciate beauty. Students will benefit from a curriculum that integrates psychological principles with cognitive neuroscience, focusing on the mechanisms behind creativity and aesthetic appreciation. This unique approach not only prepares graduates for research careers in aesthetic or creative science but also equips them for roles in the creative industries, enhancing their artistic practices. The collaboration with various departments, including Computing, Media, Communications and Cultural Studies, and Creative Management, enriches the learning experience, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between arts and sciences.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

- Domestic Students: £12,150 per year - International Students: £20,000 per year Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme comprises both compulsory and optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. The compulsory modules include:

• Aesthetic Science (15 credits)
• Creativity (15 credits)
• Multivariate Statistical Methods (15 credits)
• Research Skills (15 credits)
• Research Design and Analysis (15 credits)
• Foundations of Neuroscience (15 credits)
• Research Project (60 credits)

Students will also select 30 credits from a range of optional modules, which may include:

• Magic and the Mind (15 credits)
• Advanced Quantitative Methods (15 credits)
• Embodiment and Experience (15 credits)
• Politics of the Audiovisual (15 credits)
• Physical Computing 1 (15 credits)
• Physical Computing 2 (15 credits)
• Consumer Behaviour (15 credits)
• Psychology of Marketing and Advertising (15 credits)
• Workshops in Creative Coding 1 (15 credits)
• Workshops in Creative Coding 2 (15 credits)

The teaching methodology incorporates lectures, seminars, lab classes, and tutorials, ensuring a comprehensive learning environment.

Careers with Psychology of the Arts, Neuroaesthetics and Creativity

Graduates of this MSc programme are well-positioned for diverse career paths, particularly in sectors where the arts intersect with scientific inquiry. Alumni have pursued roles in advertising, arts management, and curating, leveraging their unique skill set that combines scientific methods with an understanding of aesthetic and creative practices. The programme prepares students for advanced research opportunities, including PhD studies in the growing fields of creative science and neuroaesthetics. Furthermore, graduates can find employment within the creative industries, such as market research, brand strategy, and consulting, or engage in arts education and clinical interventions. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that students possess a competitive advantage in the job market, making them highly sought after in various fields that value both artistic insight and scientific rigor.