Cultural Leadership

Culture defines humanity. Managing the valuation and transmission of culture through policy, entrepreneurship, and education in the public realm as well as across generations is therefore a key responsibility for a sustainable society. Nowadays culture has to be negotiated in a society shaped by digitisation and new media, ethnic and cultural diversity, changing audiences and economic circumstances, dwindling public funds, and a loss of shared historical awareness. The mission of this new Master's track is to educate future leaders in the cultural domain, both national and international, to equip them with essential scholarly expertise and analytical and strategic skills, thereby enabling them to carry culture forward in a critical, sustainable, and creative manner. The Master's track: is innovative: it prepares master students for a cultural field which quickly changes due to technological, pedagogical, political, and societal developments; it offers new methods and tools (e.g., hands-on history, digital curating) to help rethink and restructure the cultural field; has a dual character: it combines theoretical and object- oriented course modules and a thesis with a six months res

Accreditation: NVAO

Erasmus Mundus program: This is an Erasmus Mundus program.

The Master's in Cultural Leadership at the University of Groningen offers an in-depth exploration of the dynamic world of arts and culture management. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to lead and innovate within the cultural sector. Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, fostering critical thinking and strategic management capabilities. The coursework covers key areas such as cultural policy, heritage management, arts entrepreneurship, organizational leadership, and the use of digital media in the arts. Students also develop their understanding of cultural diversity, social impact, and sustainability in cultural practices.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, project-based assignments, and collaborations with cultural institutions. This hands-on approach enables students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, preparing them for leadership roles in museums, galleries, arts organizations, and cultural policy institutions. Additionally, students have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas such as contemporary arts, heritage, or cultural entrepreneurship, tailoring their education to their career ambitions.

Faculty members are experts in the fields of cultural policy, arts management, and cultural theory, providing mentorship and insights based on current industry trends. The multicultural campus environment fosters a global perspective, encouraging students to examine cultural leadership in an international context. Upon graduation, students will be equipped to impact the cultural landscape through innovative leadership, project development, policy influence, and strategic management. The Master's in Cultural Leadership thus prepares graduates for a variety of career paths in the vibrant and ever-evolving cultural sector worldwide.

Admission requirements

A personal (video) interview is part of the selection process.

Other requirements

1. intake gesprek A personal (video) interview is part of the selection process.
2. cijferlijst Excellent academic record.
3. taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 97 (with a minimum of 24 on writing skills) or IELTS 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 on all items). ERK level C1.
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in: * Archaeology * History * Language and Culture Studies * Arts and Culture Studies * or any study related to the aforementioned programmes

The Master’s programme in Cultural Leadership at the University of Groningen offers a range of financing options to help students manage the costs of their studies effectively. Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the nationality, with non-EU/EEA students typically paying higher fees compared to EU/EEA students. As of the latest academic year, the tuition fee for non-EU/EEA students is approximately €18,000 per year, while EU/EEA students pay around €2,200 annually. These fees cover access to academic resources, participation in seminars, and full enrollment in the programme.

Students are encouraged to explore scholarships and grants offered by the University of Groningen. The university provides various scholarship opportunities for talented students, including the Holland Scholarship and the Groningen International Student Scholarship, which can contribute towards tuition fees and living expenses. Applicants are advised to check specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for these awards. Additionally, students can seek external funding, such as government grants, cultural foundations, and private sponsorships available in their home countries or target regions.

Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, part-time work, and student loans. The University of Groningen’s campus offers employment opportunities through on-campus jobs and internships that align with students’ academic activities. Moreover, students are advised to plan their finances carefully, considering living expenses such as accommodation, meals, transportation, health insurance, and study materials. Groningen is known for its relatively affordable living costs compared to other major European cities, which can help reduce the overall financial burden.

International students should also account for visa and residence permit costs, which are part of the initial financial planning. The university’s international student office provides guidance on necessary documentation, permits, and possible funding sources. Financial aid workshops and advising services are available to support students in creating sustainable budgets throughout their studies.

Overall, financing options for the Master’s in Cultural Leadership aim to make education accessible while encouraging students to proactively explore all available funding sources. The university emphasizes a supportive environment where students can focus on their academic journeys without undue financial stress, thereby promoting higher retention and successful completion of their degree.

Cultural Leadership at the University of Groningen is an interdisciplinary master's program designed to prepare students for leadership roles within the cultural sector. The program emphasizes the development of strategic, innovative, and entrepreneurial skills necessary for managing cultural organizations, projects, or initiatives. Students engage in a broad curriculum that combines theory and practice, including courses in cultural policy, management, entrepreneurship, and cultural analysis. The program encourages critical thinking about cultural issues and fosters an understanding of the societal impact of culture. Through project-based learning, internships, and collaboration with cultural institutions, students gain practical experience and build a professional network within the cultural sector. The program also explores contemporary challenges such as digital transformation, diversity, and sustainability in culture. Graduates are well-equipped to assume leadership roles in museums, galleries, cultural festivals, NGOs, and government agencies dedicated to cultural development. The multidisciplinary approach ensures that students from various backgrounds, including the arts, social sciences, and humanities, can benefit from and contribute to the program. The University of Groningen’s location offers students access to a vibrant cultural scene, including historical sites, contemporary art spaces, and a dynamic arts community. The program aims to produce culturally conscious leaders who can innovate and adapt to the evolving cultural landscape globally. Intensive seminars, workshops, guest lectures by industry professionals, and a final thesis project contribute to a comprehensive learning experience. The MSc in Cultural Leadership is designed for individuals passionate about fostering cultural engagement and making a meaningful impact through effective leadership in the arts and culture sector.