Course content

The course contents are dependent upon each individual student's choice of topic for their Master's thesis. All theses must be of a mature and precise scholarly nature with a clear outline of the material. The use of source material must be accounted for, and the thesis must be discussed and brought to a conclusion.

The thesis should be 80-100 pages long, exclusive of illustrations and bibliography. Five copies of the thesis must be submitted.

As part of the thesis project 3 seminars are included:

Master's seminar 1.
At this stage the Master thesis is presented at a seminar for fellow students and lecturers. Special focus will be on how the topic can be approached and delimited thematically, geographically and historically to form a viable thesis in terms of scope and time. In this connection availability of literature and sources will be discussed.

Master seminar 2.
At this level the student is expected to present a clear outline of the thesis. This will be submitted for discussion. Emphasis will be on thesis structure and the logical order between the various parts (chapters). The student will also present a working bibliography.


Master seminar 3.
At this stage the student has entered the concluding phase of writing. Student follow-up will be provided in tutorials, where each student presents particular problems and questions that arise. Formal questions such as layout etc. will also be dealt with here.

Learning outcome

The candidate will, with the production of a thesis, demonstrate the ability to conduct independent scholarly treatment of approaches to art history subjects. This material may encompass art works of various kinds, research literature and primary sources.

Learning methods and activities

Individual supervision, thesis seminars.

Required course work:
While in the process of writing the thesis, the candidate will - in addition to individual supervision - participate in a supervised writing seminar where a synopsis of the thesis and drafts of chapters will be submitted and discussed.

More on assessment:
The Master's thesis is due November 15, in the fall term, and May 15, in the spring term. The final assessment consists of a 30-minute public presentation of the thesis, and a subsequent discussion of the thesis with the examination committee. The thesis is assessed by a letter grade.

Students are required to stay updated on any information given by the department or course director; either via It's learning, Innsida, course pages on the web, or on bulletin boards.

Compulsory assignments

• Approved description of project
• Presentation of chapter

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

KM3011 and at least two of the courses KUH3003, 3013 or 3005.

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree in Art History. Admission to the Master's programme in Art History.

Credit reductions