Contemporary Art and Archaeology University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)

Overview

The Contemporary Art and Archaeology MA at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) offers a pioneering approach to interdisciplinary research and creative practice. This programme encourages students to explore the intersection of material culture and visual arts within a collaborative academic environment. By linking these two distinct fields, the curriculum provides a unique platform for original research-led artmaking.

Why Contemporary Art and Archaeology at University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)?

This programme is the only course of its kind in the United Kingdom to explicitly link contemporary art practice with archaeological study. It has achieved exceptional student satisfaction, receiving a 100% overall score in the 2025 Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES). Students benefit from the expertise of a specialist team of academics and visual artists based in Orkney, a region world-famous for its archaeological heritage.

The course is designed for global accessibility, delivered entirely online through a sophisticated virtual learning environment. This allows practitioners from anywhere in the world to engage with the unique landscapes and cultural contexts of the Highlands and Islands. The flexible structure also enables students to tailor their studies through specialist optional modules that align with their specific creative or research interests.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 10800 per module
• National fee: GBP 5490 per module

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build foundational knowledge before progressing to advanced research and independent project work. Modules may include:

• Contemporary Art and Archaeology
• Interdisciplinary Artmaking and Research‑Led Creative Practice
• Material and Visual Culture, Arts, and Heritage
• Contemporary Art Practice
• Archaeological Study
• Creative Responses to Current Issues

Careers with Contemporary Art and Archaeology

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the creative and cultural industries. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree is particularly suited for careers in museum and exhibition curating, heritage interpretation, and cultural consultancy. Many students continue to develop their professional profiles as independent creative practitioners or artists.

Furthermore, the programme provides a robust foundation for those wishing to pursue further academic study. Successful completion of the MA allows for progression into postgraduate research degrees, such as a PhD, where students can continue to investigate the complex relationships between art, history, and material culture.