MSc Psychology of the Arts, Neuroaesthetics & Creativity at Goldsmiths, University of London
This Masters is the first postgraduate programme in the world for the scientific study of aesthetics and creativity. The programme sits at the intersection of the arts and the sciences. It will introduce you to the psychology and the cognitive neuroscience of how humans generate new ideas, how we appreciate beauty, and how we form preferences.
Based in the Department of Psychology, in collaboration with Computing, Media, Communications and Cultural Studies and the Institute of Management Studies, the course builds critical knowledge, research and communication skills across the arts and the sciences, centred around two key topics: the psychological and brain mechanisms of making (creativity) and appreciating (neuroaesthetics) art. Conducting a research project with an interdisciplinary focus will prepare you for a research career in aesthetic or creative science, working in the creative industry, or to develop your artistic practice.
Goldsmiths is uniquely placed to offer this programme, with an internationally renowned reputation in the arts and the sciences.
Existing courses combining art and psychology often have a largely therapeutic focus and rarely cover the psychology of aesthetic appreciation or creative cognition, in a broader profile. In contrast, business-oriented courses in marketing, advertising and consumer psychology often lack adequate scientific training in experimental psychology or cognitive neuroscience methods, which is required for a scientific approach to aesthetics and creativity.
On this Masters at Goldsmiths you will have the opportunity to take optional modules covering computing, media and communications, and management studies. This will complement and challenge the scientific perspective, acknowledging the richly diverse, unique and culturally specific nature of human aesthetic and creative practice.