Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Art History and Visual Cultures

Feb 19
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for advanced scholars and professionals seeking to contribute original knowledge to the fields of Art History and Visual Cultures. Positioned at a level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the Third European Cycle, the program reflects the highest standards of academic research, critical inquiry, and intellectual independence.

The program is structured to cultivate rigorous analytical thinking, advanced theoretical engagement, and high-level scholarly production. It is intended for individuals who aim to explore complex questions related to historical art movements, visual representation, global cultural exchange, media and image theory, heritage interpretation, digital visuality, and contemporary artistic discourse.

The academic structure includes seven comprehensive modules. Four modules focus on advanced research design, methodology, epistemology, academic publication standards, and critical theory, enabling candidates to produce research of international academic quality. Two general modules strengthen interdisciplinary competence, ethical research frameworks, and strategic academic positioning within global cultural and institutional contexts. One specialized module is dedicated specifically to Art History and Visual Cultures, allowing in-depth exploration of thematic areas such as iconography, visual narratives, cross-cultural artistic influence, curatorial studies, and evolving visual communication systems.

The program culminates in the development of an extensive original research thesis and related scholarly activities. Candidates are expected to demonstrate independent research capacity, theoretical mastery, methodological precision, and a meaningful contribution to knowledge within the discipline.

The minimum duration of the program is +18 months. However, participants benefit from academic flexibility and may extend their study period according to the scope of their research and professional responsibilities. This structure supports both full-time researchers and experienced professionals engaged in academic, cultural, or creative sectors.

This doctorate study program is designed to prepare advanced researchers, cultural strategists, academics, museum professionals, and thought leaders capable of shaping discourse in art historical and visual cultural studies at an international level. It emphasizes originality, global awareness, and scholarly excellence in both historical and contemporary visual contexts.