Arts and Culture: Dutch Golden Age Studies

The Master’s programme in Arts and Culture: Dutch Golden Age Studies at the University of Amsterdam offers an in-depth exploration of one of the most vibrant and influential periods in European history. This interdisciplinary programme combines history, art history, literature, and cultural studies to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Dutch Golden Age, roughly spanning the 17th century, a time marked by extraordinary advancements in art, science, trade, and politics. Students will examine the social, economic, and political contexts that fostered a flourishing cultural landscape, analyzing seminal works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals, as well as key literary and philosophical texts from the period. The programme emphasizes critical analysis of primary sources and sophisticated interpretations of artistic and cultural developments, enabling students to appreciate the intricate relationships between art, society, and identity in this remarkable era. With access to the university’s extensive archives, libraries, and museum partnerships, students will engage in rigorous research projects and internships that embody the applied nature of the programme. Courses are designed to develop advanced research skills, historical understanding, and cultural awareness pertinent to the Dutch Golden Age, preparing graduates for careers in academia, museum work, cultural heritage management, or related fields. The course structure combines theoretical classes, seminars, and hands-on research, fostering a collaborative learning environment where students can exchange ideas and deepen their understanding of this influential period. Graduates of this programme will emerge equipped with specialized knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and a nuanced perspective on Dutch cultural history, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to academic research, cultural policy, and public history sectors. Overall, the programme provides an enriching educational experience rooted in rigorous scholarship and an enduring fascination with the arts and culture of the Dutch Golden Age.

The Arts and Culture: Dutch Golden Age Studies programme at the University of Amsterdam offers an in-depth exploration of the cultural, artistic, and historical developments during the Dutch Golden Age, roughly spanning the 17th century. This multidisciplinary programme provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the social, political, and economic contexts that fostered a remarkable period of artistic achievement and cultural flourishing in the Netherlands. Throughout the programme, students examine a wide array of topics, including major artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals, as well as significant cultural movements, societal transformations, and the role of art in shaping Dutch national identity. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and practical research projects to develop critical analytical skills and encourage a nuanced understanding of the period’s artistic output, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, literature, and architecture.

In addition to gaining historical knowledge, students actively engage with visual analysis and interpretation, learning to contextualize artworks within their cultural and socio-political frameworks. The programme emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of Dutch Golden Age Studies by integrating perspectives from art history, history, cultural studies, and museology. Students are encouraged to participate in excursions to museums, archives, and historical sites, enhancing their hands-on understanding of primary sources and artworks. The programme also offers the opportunity for specialization, allowing students to focus on particular themes such as mercantile culture, religious life, gender roles, or the development of artistic techniques during the period.

Graduates of this programme will develop strong research, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing them for careers in museum and gallery work, cultural heritage management, academia, or further postgraduate research. The programme is designed for students with a passion for history, art, and culture, and aims to foster an appreciation for the significant cultural contributions of the Dutch Golden Age, as well as a broader understanding of how art and society interact during periods of great change. Through engaging coursework, original research opportunities, and interaction with leading scholars in the field, students graduate with a solid foundation in Dutch Golden Age cultural history, equipped to contribute thoughtfully to academic and professional fields related to arts and heritage.

Program requirements for the Arts and Culture: Dutch Golden Age Studies at the University of Amsterdam include a combination of academic coursework, research, and practical experience designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of the cultural, historical, and artistic developments during the Dutch Golden Age (17th century). Prospective students are generally required to hold a relevant undergraduate degree, such as in Art History, History, or Culture Studies, with a strong academic record demonstrating familiarity with European history and art analysis. Proficiency in English is mandatory, evidenced by standardized test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS, to ensure effective participation in lectures, seminars, and research activities.

The program involves completing a set of core courses that cover topics like Dutch painting, printmaking, literature, and social history of the 17th century. Elective modules allow students to specialize further in areas like maritime history, economic aspects of the period, or gender studies within Dutch culture. Students are expected to engage actively in seminars, contribute to group projects, and undertake independent research under supervision. A significant component is the Master's thesis, a substantial research project that demonstrates the student's ability to analyze primary sources, contextualize findings within existing scholarship, and present a well-structured academic argument. The thesis is typically around 15,000 words and is defended publicly at the end of the program.

In addition to academic coursework, students are encouraged to participate in internships with museums, cultural institutions, or research centers that focus on the Dutch Golden Age. Language skills in Dutch can be advantageous but are not strictly required; however, some familiarity is beneficial for accessing primary sources. The program promotes interdisciplinary approaches, combining art history, history, literature, and social sciences, requiring students to develop critical thinking and research skills. The program duration is generally one or two years, depending on the student's previous education and study pace. Admission procedures involve submitting a motivational letter, transcripts, a research proposal (for Master’s thesis), and possibly attending an interview. Prior experience or coursework relevant to the Dutch Golden Age will strengthen an application.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Arts and Culture: Dutch Golden Age Studies program at the University of Amsterdam offers various financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees for this master's program are established by the Dutch government and may vary depending on the student’s nationality. EU/EEA students typically pay lower tuition fees compared to non-EU students. In the academic year 2023-2024, the tuition fee for EU/EEA students was approximately €2,200 per year, whereas non-EU students paid around €13,000 annually. These fees are subject to change each academic year and students are advised to consult the university's official website for the most current information.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other costs such as housing, study materials, health insurance, and living expenses. The University of Amsterdam provides a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students financially. Dutch students and international students can apply for scholarships such as the Amsterdam Excellence Scholarships (AES), which are awarded based on academic excellence and cover partial or full tuition fees. There are also external funding sources, including scholarships from the Dutch government, the European Union, and other organizations, which students can explore to help offset costs.

Students enrolled in this program are encouraged to seek part-time work during their studies to supplement their income, especially since the university's location in Amsterdam provides numerous employment opportunities. International students from outside the EU may have restrictions on working hours, so it is important to verify these limitations before seeking employment.

The university offers financial guidance and counseling to assist students in planning their finances and applying for financial aid opportunities. This includes sessions on budgeting, understanding financial responsibilities, and guidance on accessing loans or grants. University students are also eligible for student loans from the Dutch government, subject to specific criteria, including nationality and residency status.

Overall, financing the Dutch Golden Age Studies program involves a combination of tuition fees, personal savings, scholarships, work opportunities, and external funding sources. Prospective students are advised to thoroughly research all available options and plan their finances accordingly to ensure a smooth academic journey. The university’s official website and admissions office provide comprehensive information and support regarding financial matters for both domestic and international students.

The Master’s program in Arts and Culture: Dutch Golden Age Studies at the University of Amsterdam offers students an in-depth exploration of Dutch art, culture, and history during the 17th century, a period widely regarded as the Dutch Golden Age. This program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the social, political, economic, and cultural contexts that influenced Dutch artistic achievements in painting, architecture, literature, and science during this vibrant era. Students will examine key figures such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals, alongside wider themes like urban development, trade, technological innovations, and religious changes.

Program coursework covers a variety of disciplines including art history, history, cultural studies, and museum studies, offering a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the period. Delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, research projects, and field visits to museums and historical sites, students are encouraged to develop critical analytical skills and academic research competence. The program also emphasizes the importance of primary source analysis, textual interpretation, and contextual understanding to provide students with a nuanced perspective on Dutch cultural history.

Graduates of this program are equipped with advanced research skills and specialized knowledge suitable for careers in academia, museum curation, cultural heritage management, arts journalism, or further doctoral studies. The faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance to students throughout their studies. Furthermore, the university’s strategic location in Amsterdam offers unparalleled access to world-class museums, archives, and cultural institutions that house significant collections from the Dutch Golden Age, enriching the learning experience.

This MSc program typically lasts one year for full-time students and may include opportunities for internships, collaborations with cultural organizations, or participation in international research projects. Applicants are expected to have a background in arts, history, or related disciplines, along with proficiency in English, given that instruction and coursework are conducted in English. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and original research, making it ideal for students passionate about European art history and Dutch culture. Upon graduation, students will possess both theoretical expertise and practical skills to pursue careers in arts and culture sectors or continue their academic journey through doctoral research.