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History and theory of arts

The History and Theory of Arts PhD programme is designed for emerging researchers seeking new perspectives on the analysis of contemporary art and cultural contexts. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, they explore phenomena in art, visual culture and architecture using methods from the humanities, social sciences and technologies. The programme has a strong focus on innovative research models and the creation of new knowledge.

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Values of the Science Field

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Relevance

These studies examine the impact of art and visual culture on society, political ideologies and cultural processes. They encourage research into the multifaceted influence of art and architecture, from urban planning to contemporary forms of activism, which all contribute to societal and cultural development.

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Opportunities

Graduates can become researchers and experts, working in academia, museums, galleries and cultural heritage institutions. They can also pursue careers in art criticism, lead interdisciplinary projects and develop cultural policy strategies to promote social change through art analysis.

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Benefits

The study programme offers the opportunity to pursue a double degree with the University of Bologna, obtain the Doctor Europaeus Certificate and engage in paid project work. Students can also gain teaching experience, present their research results at public science outreach events and participate in collaborative projects with industry and businesses.

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Funding

KTU offers various funding opportunities for PhD students, including scholarships for study and research, support for participation in international conferences and events, and Erasmus+ funding for research abroad. There are also additional scholarships for academic achievement and scientific activity, as well as one-time achievement-based university scholarships.

Research Topics

Topic title	Possible scientific supervisors	Source of funding

Admission Requirements and Study Modules in the Field of Science

Cycle – third cycle

Form, duration – full-time studies (4 yr.)

Language – Lithuanian, English

Degree awarded – Doctor of Science

Main modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Artistic Text and its Research Methods	6	On-campus learning
Contemporary Architectural Theory	6	On-campus learning
Cultural Ecology	6	On-campus learning
Digitality and Art	6	On-campus learning
Empirical Musicology	6	On-campus learning
Musical Semiotics	6	Distance learning
Semiotics of Architecture	6	On-campus learning
Transdisciplinary Research Methods	6	On-campus learning
Urban Genotypes	6	On-campus learning

Core skills modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Academic and Technical Research Writing	1	Blended learning
Design Thinking in Research	2	On-campus learning
Digital Support and Tools for Research Writing and Publication	2	Blended learning
Research Data Management	1	On-campus learning
Research Ethics	1	On-campus learning
Research Project Grant Management	2	Blended learning
Science Communication for the Public	1	Distance learning
Systematic Literature Review	1	Blended learning

Good to know

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Admission requirements and minimum competition scores

Persons with a Master's Degree or equivalent degree of higher education in the fields of Humanities, Social Sciences or Arts may participate in an open competition for admission to doctoral studies.

Applicants to the doctoral field of science are accepted by competition according to the competition score.

Minimum competition score 8.0.

Selection criteria and their weighted coefficients

	0,35	weighted grade point average of the diploma supplement
	0,3	research experience
	0,35	otivation interview

admission requirements dates and deadlines for admission all science (art) fields

Testimonials

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Although the university provides an inspiring environment, it was the people there who motivated me to choose KTU for the third time. During my four years of study, I have grown a lot. My dissertation, my involvement in the UPRUN project, conferences abroad, collaborating with researchers, and working at the faculty have given me invaluable experience that I would like to repeat.

Eglė Januškienė

PhD student

KTU stands out for its transparent admissions process and clear programme and study system. I am a member of the Cultural and Spatial Environment research group, which involves not only analysing historical sources and literature but also contributing to the resolution of environmental and societal issues. International cooperation provides an opportunity to gain experience and evaluate the global significance of my research.

Indraja Raudonikytė

PhD student

FAQ

Where can I find the list of research topics in History and Theory of Arts?

The list of research topics offered by the University in the science field of History and Theory of Arts can be found in the section “Research Topics”.

Is the motivation interview mandatory when applying?

Yes, all applicants to KTU doctoral studies must participate in a motivation interview. During the interview, the candidate’s motivation and preparedness for doctoral studies are discussed. English language proficiency is also assessed.

What scholarship can I receive in History and Theory of Arts?

PhD students receive a scholarship calculated based on the state-established Basic Social Benefit (BSI). In the first year of studies, the scholarship amounts to 19.0 BSI per month, while second, third and fourth-year doctoral students receive 22.0 BSI per month.

In 2026, the monthly scholarship for first-year students is 1,406 EUR, and for second to fourth year doctoral students it is 1,628 EUR per month.