Media, Art and Performance Studies

The Bachelor's programme in Media, Art and Performance Studies at Utrecht University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of contemporary media, art, and performance practices. This programme aims to provide students with a deep understanding of how media and performance shape cultural, social, and political life in the modern world. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of theoretical frameworks and practical skills, enabling them to critically analyze various forms of artistic expression and media production. The curriculum emphasizes the interconnectedness of different artistic and media disciplines, encouraging students to develop a multidisciplinary perspective.

Students in this programme will explore topics such as digital media, performance art, visual culture, media theory, and cultural studies. The programme offers a balanced combination of academic theory and practical application, including hands-on projects, workshops, and internships. By engaging with contemporary debates and case studies, students learn to interpret and produce culturally relevant media and art projects. The programme fosters critical thinking, creativity, and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in media, arts management, cultural policy, journalism, and other creative industries.

Moreover, the programme benefits from Utrecht University's strong connections with cultural institutions, ensuring students have opportunities for practical experience and networking. The diverse student body and experienced faculty create an inclusive and stimulating learning environment. Graduates of this programme are equipped to navigate and influence the constantly evolving landscape of media, art, and performance, contributing innovatively and thoughtfully to cultural and societal developments. This programme is ideal for students passionate about understanding and shaping contemporary culture through media and arts, and who seek a dynamic academic environment that combines theory with practice.

Media, Art and Performance Studies at Utrecht University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of contemporary media, visual arts, and performance practices. The programme is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills and practical understanding of how media and art shape our society, culture, and individual identities. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of topics, including digital media, film, visual arts, performance art, and new media technologies. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and hands-on experiences, enabling students to critically analyze media content and create their own artistic projects.

Students will study the history and theory of media, arts, and performance, gaining insights into historical developments, aesthetic considerations, and socio-political contexts. The programme encourages an active engagement with contemporary issues, fostering critical thinking about the role of media and art in social change, identity formation, and cultural expression. In addition to theory, students participate in practical workshops and seminars that focus on media production, artistic experimentation, and performance techniques. These activities help develop creative skills alongside scholarly knowledge.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their educational path according to their interests in specific领域 such as digital media, experimental performance, or visual arts. Plus, the programme offers opportunities for international exchange and collaboration with artists and media professionals, broadening students’ perspectives and professional networks. Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in media production, arts management, cultural policy, entertainment industries, or further academic research. Overall, the programme aims to foster innovative, critically-minded practitioners who are capable of contributing thoughtfully and creatively to the evolving fields of media, art, and performance.

Other requirements

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 Media, Art and Performance Studies program at Utrecht University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and the degree level. For EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fee for bachelor's and master's programmes is generally around €2,300, while non-EU/EEA students may pay higher fees, which can be approximately €10,000 to €20,000 per year. These fees are subject to change annually and may vary based on specific regulations or program updates.

Utrecht University provides several scholarships and bursaries to both domestic and international students. The Utrecht Excellence Scholarships are highly competitive and cover tuition fees partially or fully, depending on the scholarship award. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and the student's motivation. Additionally, the Holland Scholarship offers financial support to excellent international students from outside the European Economic Area, providing a contribution towards tuition fees and living costs.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding options, such as government grants, loans, or private scholarships available in their home countries. The Dutch government offers student loan schemes with favorable repayment terms for Dutch residents and EU students. International students from outside the EU may be eligible for loans or grants from their own governments or international organizations.

Living expenses in Utrecht are estimated to be around €900 to €1,200 per month, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, and leisure activities. Students often seek part-time employment to help finance their studies, as international students are generally permitted to work a limited number of hours per week during the academic year.

Utrecht University also collaborates with various foundations and organizations to promote student mobility and financial support. Students are advised to check the university's official website and contact the student financial support office for the most current information and application procedures related to scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities. Overall, financing studies in Media, Art and Performance Studies at Utrecht University requires careful planning and active exploration of multiple funding sources to ensure a smooth academic journey.

Media, Art and Performance Studies at Utrecht University offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex ways in which media, arts, and performance influence our society and culture. The program explores the cultural, societal, and technological aspects of media and art, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and innovation, preparing graduates for careers in media production, cultural consultancy, arts management, research, and education.

The curriculum combines a variety of courses that cover media theory, cultural studies, art history, performance analysis, and media technology. Students engage with contemporary issues such as digital transformation, media ethics, and the role of arts and performance in social change. The program encourages students to develop their own research questions and projects, fostering an independent and investigative mindset. Through lectures, seminars, workshops, and internships, learners gain hands-on experience in both the analysis and creation of media and artistic projects.

The teaching staff is composed of experts from diverse fields including media studies, art history, cultural theory, and performance studies. The program often collaborates with cultural institutions, museums, theaters, and media organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships and practical training. Utrecht University supports a vibrant academic community, offering events, guest lectures, and seminar series that enhance the learning environment.

Graduates of Media, Art and Performance Studies are equipped to analyze the influence of media and arts in society critically, and many go on to work as journalists, curators, gallery or theater managers, cultural policy advisors, and media analysts. Some students pursue further academic research through master's or doctoral programs, contributing to scholarly debates on media and arts.

Studying in Utrecht provides access to a rich cultural scene and a diverse student community. The city itself is renowned for its historical heritage, vibrant arts scene, and innovative digital initiatives, making it an ideal location for students interested in media, art, and performance. The program is designed to prepare students for the dynamic and evolving fields of media and arts, emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical application to meet the demands of contemporary cultural industries.