Master of Arts in Heritage Studies: Curating Art and Cultures
A unique two-year programme blending academic theory and hands-on museum practice to train the next generation of professional curators.
Best for:Best for students with a passion for art history, cultural studies, or museum sciences who seek a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to curatorial practice and research.
Overview
This Master of Arts programme, jointly offered by the University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in collaboration with leading Dutch museums, prepares students for careers as professional curators. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations in art history, cultural studies, and curatorial theory with practical experience through a year-long internship at partnering cultural institutions. Students engage with contemporary issues in art and heritage, develop research skills, and gain expertise in exhibition design, publication research, and museum management. The programme emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and culminates in a Master’s thesis, equipping graduates with both academic rigor and professional readiness for the curatorial field.
What you'll do
- Develop a strong theoretical and disciplinary foundation in art history, cultural studies, and curatorial theory.
- Engage with contemporary issues in the collection, display, and interpretation of art and cultural artefacts.
- Conduct independent research and produce a Master’s thesis on a curatorial topic of your choice.
- Participate in a year-long internship at a partnering museum or cultural institution, gaining hands-on experience in professional curatorial practice.
- Collaborate with museum professionals on exhibition design, research for publications, and other curatorial projects.
- Develop research and analytical skills applicable to both academic and professional curatorial contexts.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Cultural Studies, History, Anthropology, or a related field from a recognized university.
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for academic study (equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90, if applicable)
Instruction: English
- Strong academic writing and research skills
- Ability to engage critically with theoretical concepts in art and cultural studies
- Basic proficiency in museum or cultural institution practices (preferred but not mandatory)
- Fluency in academic research and analysis
- Open to international applicants
- No age restrictions
- No specific residency requirements mentioned
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-03-01
Applicants must submit an online application through the University of Amsterdam’s portal. Required documents typically include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Additional materials may be requested depending on the application.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Research proposal or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
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