https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2026-2027/L_KAMAKMCSCRThe student demonstrates the ability to systematically and efficiently collect and interpret research material related to a self-selected topic within the specialization’s field of study or a related topic. In doing so, the student is able to understand and analyze academic and/or other complex texts;The student demonstrates knowledge, understanding, and problem-solving skills and is able to apply these to new or unfamiliar themes or cases related to the research topic, and to make an (original) contribution to the relevant field of research;The student demonstrates the ability to independently distill broader research themes from and establish connections regarding reliable primary sources, secondary literature, and/or other sources related to the subject;The student demonstrates the ability to formulate a complex research question clearly and concisely in written and spoken form at an academic level;The student demonstrates the ability to write an academic thesis using clear and focused language in accordance with academic conventions and to submit it within a specified timeframe;The student possesses sufficient qualifications to conduct independent follow-up research.The master’s thesis is the culminating component of the Art, Market, and Connoisseurship specialization track. The student writes a thesis on a topic of their own choosing, the content of which must be coordinated with and approved by the thesis advisor and the second reader. The entire program is completed independently (under the supervision of the thesis advisor), and students are expected to present their research design and thesis progress orally during two colloquia. Additional specifications and requirements for the thesis and the writing process are outlined in the MA Thesis Guide, available on VU-net and/or Canvas.Independent work and supervision, colloquia (presentations).Colloquia (pass/fail): learning objectives 1, 2, 3, 42 Thesis (100%): learning objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6Final attainment levels of the MA Arts & Culture: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9Identifying relevant academic literature is part of the thesis process.Master’s students in Arts & Culture: Art, Market, and Connoisseurship.The module “Methods and Theories of Art History” (L_KAMAKGS403) must have been successfully completed.