BURGAS — The National Academy of Art (NAA) — Burgas Branch announced the start of admissions for two entirely new master's programs aimed at the preservation of cultural heritage and the development of contemporary visual art. The initiative, which takes place entirely in the seaside city, offers a unique chance for specialization in fields that are becoming increasingly relevant at the local and national level.
The innovations in Burgas's educational sector represent a logical continuation of the efforts to transform the city into an academic center that attracts young talent from all over the country.
Focus on the Cultural Heritage of the Black Sea Coast
One of the programs, "Cultural Heritage of the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast_q, is only available at the Burgas branch and was created with the ambitious goal of researching and promoting the rich heritage of the region. It covers a wide historical period — from antiquity to the Modern era — with a focus on monuments related to the development of cultural tourism. The program strives to provide students with not only in-depth theoretical knowledge but also a critical perspective on the media myths and stereotypes that often accompany the presentation of history.
The training is structured to stimulate an interdisciplinary scientific approach and individual creativity. Students will acquire skills for the interactive promotion of movable and immovable cultural assets, in line with contemporary standards and UNESCO principles. The Academy has engaged established lecturers — art historians, historians, archaeologists, restorers, and art management specialists — who will work individually with each student to develop their full potential.
Graduates of this program will be prepared for a wide range of professional roles. They will be able to work as cultural tourism managers, museum experts, gallerists, curators, and organizers of cultural destinations. Career development prospects include working in museums, art galleries, government and non-governmental structures, as well as in the tourism sector.
The Magic of Photography as an Art and Profession
The second new master's program is dedicated to "Photography_q. It was developed with the idea of giving future photographers knowledge and skills that cover not only the technical side of the craft but also its deep connection with art. Students will become familiar in detail with the history and theory of the photographic image, its language, aesthetics, and significance in contemporary art in both a global and Bulgarian context.
The program provides intensive practical courses and work on artistic projects, allowing students to experiment with classical and contemporary photographic technologies. The training is also aimed at developing critical and creative thinking about the social and cultural discourse of contemporary art. Special emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary fields such as photo installation, experimental film, and video art. During the second year of study, students will work on a diploma thesis under the guidance of a leading lecturer, the culmination of which will be the presentation of their works.