Master of Arts in Philosophy of the Arts
A two-year interdisciplinary programme blending continental philosophy and practical arts engagement at Leiden University.
Best for:Best for philosophy graduates or arts scholars interested in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of continental philosophy and contemporary arts.
Overview
This Master of Arts programme at Leiden University integrates deep philosophical training in continental philosophy and aesthetics with academic study across visual, musical, literary, and performing arts. Students explore post-Kantian thought from German idealism to deconstruction while gaining hands-on experience with artworks. The curriculum requires 40 credits in an arts-related discipline outside philosophy, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Small class sizes ensure close mentorship from internationally renowned faculty. Ideal for graduates with a philosophy background or equivalent pre-master’s preparation seeking to bridge theory and artistic practice.
What you'll do
- Develop advanced philosophical arguments in continental philosophy and aesthetics through coursework and independent research.
- Engage with practical artworks (visual, musical, literary, performing) to ground theoretical study in real-world artistic practice.
- Complete 40 credits of coursework in an arts-related discipline outside philosophy, fostering interdisciplinary expertise.
- Participate in small seminar groups with direct mentorship from faculty specializing in post-Kantian thought and art theory.
- Conduct original research culminating in a master’s thesis that integrates philosophical and artistic perspectives.
- Present research findings in academic seminars and potentially at conferences or public events.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy or equivalent pre-master’s preparation in philosophy or related humanities disciplines.
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; IELTS overall band score of 6.5 or TOEFL internet-based score of 90 (or equivalent Cambridge Certificate scores).
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills in philosophy, particularly continental traditions.
- Familiarity with post-Kantian philosophy (e.g., German idealism, phenomenology, deconstruction).
- Ability to engage critically with artistic works across visual, musical, literary, and performing arts.
- Academic writing proficiency in English for thesis and seminar presentations.
- Open to international applicants; no nationality restrictions.
- Equivalent pre-master’s preparation may be considered for applicants without a BA in Philosophy.
- No age restrictions.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
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- Prerequisites
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Applicants must submit their application through Leiden University’s official portal. Required documents include a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal outlining their interdisciplinary focus. Two letters of recommendation are also required.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (BA degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge Certificate)
- Research proposal (interdisciplinary focus)
- Two letters of recommendation
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