The new interdisciplinary Master’s programme in ‘Musicology and Aesthetics of the Audiovisual Arts’ at the University of Graz – the only one of its kind in the German-speaking world – is aimed at anyone interested in the diverse interrelationships between art and music. The programme centres on the systematic expansion of both disciplines, driven by the increasing blurring of boundaries between artistic genres and media. Particular emphasis is placed on the history and theory of audiovisual art forms, on concepts such as synaesthesia, the Gesamtkunstwerk or intermediality, and on the socio-cultural dimensions of media practices.
Students explore historical and contemporary forms of artistic expression, texts, objects and cultural phenomena, and analyse them from the perspectives of art history and musicology.
The programme provides in-depth knowledge of art and music history, aesthetics, media and art theory, as well as current developments in contemporary art and music. Students develop skills in the scholarly analysis and presentation of interdisciplinary topics, in the critique of art, academia and institutions, and in the application of a wide range of methods – from digital research to cultural studies analytical techniques.
Graduates are well equipped to interpret historical and contemporary phenomena in music and art from different perspectives, to analyse artistic practices and their impact, and to apply their knowledge in both research and professional practice. The Master’s programme opens up a wide range of career opportunities, for example in research and teaching, cultural management, museums, theatres, festivals, the media industry, publishing, or in the field of art and science communication. The flexible curriculum takes account of current developments in the arts and culture scene and equips students for positions of responsibility at the interface between art, music and the media.
The new curriculum is seamlessly integrated into the University of Graz’s new module selection options and allows students to undertake either a semester abroad by choosing the Mobility Window and/or to take an interdisciplinary or cross-faculty Master’s module. Furthermore, students can still specialise in musicology or art history.
Study programme
From the 2026/27 winter semester, the new Master’s programme in Musicology and Aesthetics of the Audiovisual Arts will be available:
If you have any questions regarding the programme, please contact the Chair of the Art History Curriculum Committee.
Putting knowledge into practice: Whether it’s carrying out a research project or engaging in exciting science communication, we take a hands-on approach here!
Expansion of the Master’s programme to include a Master’s module: additional skills in a future-oriented topic of the student’s choice.
Sharpen your career profile in a targeted way with certified additional qualifications or supplementary subjects from the University of Graz. The programme covers both discipline-specific areas and qualifications for a career in business or the cultural sector.
During your studies, you’ll come across various terms that you weren’t familiar with before – not just academic ones, but organisational ones too. Here you’ll find some guidance to help you get started with your studies, from A for ‘app’ to V for ‘preparatory language courses’.