Available in 8 languages
Arts & Humanities

Study Art & Humanities in Europe

Centuries of art and ideas — not in a textbook, but outside your window.

36
Art & Humanities programs in Europe from 20 universities · updated for 2026
Ask Leonardo View Requirements
Jump to:
Museum & Archive Access European cities hold more major art collections and archives per square kilometre than anywhere else in the world
Critical Tradition European humanities programs emphasize critical theory, debate, and analytical writing at a world-class level
Unmatched Cultural Depth Studying in a continent with continuous recorded history enriches every humanities discipline in unique ways
Interdisciplinary Culture European arts universities connect fine art, philosophy, history, and contemporary practice across departments

The humanities are the disciplines that ask what it means to be human — through art, literature, philosophy, and history — and Europe offers a setting for that inquiry that is genuinely hard to match. Centuries of artistic and intellectual heritage are not locked away here; they are woven into everyday life, from the museums and archives of one city to the literary and architectural landscape of the next. Studying art history, creative writing, cultural studies, or comparative literature on the continent means working close to the primary sources and the places that produced them, under faculty who sustain Europe's long tradition of critical and interpretive rigor. English-taught programs are widespread, and the field is increasingly interdisciplinary, connecting literature and art history to film studies, critical theory, museum studies, and the digital humanities. Specializations range from classical and comparative literature to creative writing and museum and curatorial practice. Far from being impractical, a humanities degree builds exactly the skills — argument, research, writing, cultural fluency, critical judgment — that careers in publishing and media, museums and cultural institutions, education, communications, the creative industries, and the nonprofit and cultural-policy sectors continue to value.

Featured Art & Humanities Programs in Europe

A selection of programs available across Europe — explore details, fees, and requirements.

Film Studies

ELTE – Eötvös Loránd University Budapest, Hungary

Master's English 2 years
EU: €3,500 Per semester Non-EU: €3,500
Tap to see program details

Film Studies ELTE – Eötvös Loránd University

This master's degree is the only program of its kind in the country to offer an English-language qualification in film studies, combining theoretical and practical training to prepare students for careers in academia as well as the broader cultural and entertainment sector. It runs with two specializations, Film Theory and Filmmaking, over four semesters.

Both specializations share a foundational curriculum, beginning with an introduction to film studies and continuing into a comprehensive film history sequence, a choice between film theory or textual analysis, and coursework in film analysis. Depending on the specialization, students also take either a professional writing course or a research methodology course during this shared foundation.

Students in the Film Theory specialization gain a general overview of the history and theory of film alongside a critical understanding of the mechanisms and genres of popular film culture, with an emphasis on academic and critical writing. They explore different periods of Hungarian and world film history and various theoretical approaches and genres, developing skills in reading theoretical texts and interpreting films. Elective coursework spans further film history, film theory, and audiovisual culture, along with research seminars, project seminars, professional writing, and practical workshops, supported by required academic writing coursework and consultation sessions with an assigned adviser.

Students in the Filmmaking specialization gain hands-on experience across the creative production process, including screenwriting, directing, editing, cinematography, and production. Elective coursework includes an introduction to filmmaking, practical courses in directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and production, coursework on production fundamentals, and practical workshops, which can be fulfilled through an internship at a film industry company. In the second semester, students write a brief academic paper before beginning a collaborative creative thesis project, supported by project development coursework and consultation sessions with an assigned adviser.

Film Theory students complete an independent research thesis that interprets screen media through relevant theory and the international scholarly literature, defended in a combined oral examination covering film history and theory. Filmmaking students instead complete a portfolio-based thesis combining a creative film or media project, a written essay on its background, and a working diary of the creative process, discussed in detail during their final oral examination. In both cases, the final degree grade combines the thesis grade with the result of the oral examination.

Faculty include active researchers involved in international and local projects, and filmmaking courses are taught by industry professionals. The department regularly organizes conferences, workshops, and screenings, in which students play an active organizing role, and maintains exchange partnerships with roughly a dozen institutions across Europe. Film Theory graduates go on to academic research or further doctoral study, or work as film and communication teachers, critics, and experts, including positions in film and media archives or national cultural institutions. Filmmaking graduates go on to produce content such as music videos, commercials, video blogs, or short films, working for production companies or in distribution and exhibition roles, with examples including line producers, screenwriters, and cinematographers.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent, with full credit given for degrees in liberal arts or in motion picture and visual representation studies with a media specialization. Applicants with degrees in other fields are evaluated individually and must demonstrate at least 30, and ideally 50, credits of prior coursework in areas such as film history, film theory, filmmaking, philosophy, literary theory, the history of the social sciences, or art and cultural theory, supported by transcripts and course descriptions. Film Theory applicants must also submit a brief research proposal outlining their intended research project, while Filmmaking applicants must submit a link to an online portfolio of previous creative work, such as still or moving images, other digital media, or a sample screenplay.

English is the language of instruction throughout, and non-native speakers must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency (CEFR), with preferred minimum scores of 72 to 94 on the TOEFL iBT, 6.0 on the IELTS, or 100 on the Duolingo English Test.

Applicants must submit an application form, secondary school certificate, an official copy of their completed bachelor's degree, a transcript of records, a CV, and a motivation letter of no more than 500 words, along with a valid passport copy; documents not originally in English require an official translation. Admission includes an online interview focused on the applicant's motivation, conducted in English, with final rankings based on a combined evaluation of academic performance and interview results.
Visit Program Website

Media Arts and Creative Technologies

RISEBA University of Applied Sciences Riga, Latvia

PhD English 3 years
EU: €4,700 Per year Non-EU: €5,900
Tap to see program details

Media Arts and Creative Technologies RISEBA University of Applied Sciences

This doctoral program belongs to the fields of Media and Communication Studies and Art, Humanities and Creative Writing. It focuses on interdisciplinary, practice-led research in digital arts and audiovisual media, integrating artistic creativity with scientific, technological, and critical-analytical approaches. The curriculum includes modules on theory and creative practice, artistic inquiry, and peer recognition through pedagogical and organizational activities. Students develop expertise in creating innovative media and cultural projects, conducting academic research, and producing original artworks. This program prepares graduates for professional roles in the arts, media, creative industries, and academic careers.
Applicants to this doctoral program must hold an academic or professional master’s degree in the humanities and arts, along with English proficiency at a B2 level and pass an entrance exam. Candidates with degrees in social sciences, education, engineering, or computer science may also apply if they have at least 24 months of professional artistic experience or relevant coursework in art history, philosophy, or new media. Admission includes submitting a research proposal and completing an interview. Previous education and research experience are also considered during the evaluation.
Visit Program Website

Painting

Magdalena Abakanowicz – University of the Arts Poznań Poznań, Poland

Bachelor's English 3 years
EU: €2,900 Per semester Non-EU: €2,900
Tap to see program details

Painting Magdalena Abakanowicz – University of the Arts Poznań

This is a three-year, full-time program that combines classical and modern painting techniques with a strong foundation in art history, theory, and contemporary culture. Students develop individual artistic expression through studio work, research, and theoretical reflection. The curriculum fosters artistic awareness, social competence, and professional readiness, preparing graduates for careers as independent artists or cultural animators. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between art and its social, economic, and market context. Specialized labs in mapping, comics, and art books enrich the learning experience and promote interdisciplinary exploration.
To apply for this program, candidates must submit an application form with a photo, a cover letter, a legalized or apostilled and translated high school certificate, and a portfolio with a motivation letter. An English language certificate (e.g., IELTS 5+, TOEFL 60+, FCE, CAE) is required unless the applicant comes from an English-speaking country or has completed studies taught in English—supported by a diploma confirming the language of instruction. Proof of health insurance for the full academic year in Poland or a statement of intent to obtain it upon arrival is also required, along with confirmation of the enrollment fee payment.
Visit Program Website

Liberal Arts in Humanities

Tallinn University Tallinn, Estonia

Bachelor's English 3 years
EU: €2,100 Per semester Non-EU: €2,100
Tap to see program details

Liberal Arts in Humanities Tallinn University

This interdisciplinary humanities program offers a flexible curriculum combining cultural analysis, language studies, environmental humanities, Asian studies, and more. Students can specialize in areas such as anthropology, history, literature, or media, while gaining foundational skills in critical thinking, research writing, digital literacy, and academic English. The program includes practical training, interdisciplinary projects, and a final bachelor’s exam. Elective modules allow for deep dives into specific cultural, linguistic, and societal topics. Students also develop professional communication skills and gain experience through internships.
To apply, candidates must hold a secondary school leaving certificate or equivalent qualification that grants access to higher education. Admission is based on two components: a letter of motivation and an interview. Applicants must also demonstrate English language proficiency at B2 level. For international candidates, the secondary education qualification must be recognized as equivalent.
Visit Program Website

Why Study Art & Humanities in Europe?

1

Unmatched cultural heritage and artistic traditions

2

Historic universities with centuries of humanistic scholarship

3

Access to world-class museums, archives, and cultural institutions

4

Diverse perspectives and multicultural environment

5

Strong creative industries

Popular Specializations

Focus areas within Art & Humanities

Admission Requirements

What you'll need to apply

BSc/BA

Bachelor's Programs

  • High school diploma with strong grades in humanities subjects
  • Writing samples or portfolio for creative programs
  • English proficiency for English-taught programs
  • Demonstrated interest in arts and culture

What You'll Study

Typical curriculum and coursework

Historical and theoretical foundations

Critical analysis and interpretation

Research methodologies

Creative practice (where applicable)

Specialization courses

Thesis or creative project

How to Prepare

Tips to strengthen your application

1

Read widely across humanities disciplines

2

Develop strong writing skills

3

Visit museums and cultural sites

4

Build a portfolio of creative work

5

Learn research methods

6

Engage with contemporary cultural debates

Career Paths

Where a Art & Humanities degree can take you

€30,000 - €60,000 Typical Salary Range
Competitive but diverse opportunities in cultural sectors

Writer/Author

Create fiction, non-fiction, or journalism

Museum Curator

Manage collections and exhibitions

Editor

Shape written content for publication

Cultural Manager

Lead cultural organizations and projects

Arts Administrator

Manage arts organizations

Academic Researcher

Conduct humanities research

Leonardo AI

Find Your Perfect Art & Humanities Program

Tell Leonardo what you're looking for and get personalized program recommendations in seconds.

Try asking:

Explore Other Fields

Not quite right? Discover more study areas