Art History and Curatorial Studies

Art History and Curatorial Studies at the Australian National University offer a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the visual arts across different cultures and historical periods. This program is designed to develop students' critical thinking, analytical skills, and curatorial expertise, preparing them for careers in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, academic research, and heritage management. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including the history of art, contemporary practices, museology, and the theory and practice of curation. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, providing opportunities for students to develop exhibition research, planning, and presentation abilities, as well as understanding issues related to cultural heritage and conservation. The program encourages an international perspective, reflecting Australia's rich multicultural environment and the university's commitment to global engagement in arts and culture. Students will benefit from access to world-class collections, expert faculty, and collaborative projects that connect academic study with real-world arts environments. Graduates will acquire the necessary competencies to contribute meaningfully to the fields of art history and curatorial practice, entering the workforce with a robust understanding of visual culture, ethical considerations, and innovative curatorial methodologies. Whether students aspire to work as museum curators, art administrators, cultural policy advisors, or scholars, this program equips them with the essential knowledge and practical experience to excel. The degree combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and internships, fostering a dynamic learning environment where theoretical insights are integrated with hands-on application. Join the Australian National University to explore the vibrant world of art history and curatorial practice, and develop a nuanced understanding of the role of art within society across time and space.

The Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Curatorial Studies at the Australian National University offers students a comprehensive introduction to the history of art, visual culture, and the theories that underpin the discipline. Throughout this program, students will explore the development of artistic practices from ancient times to contemporary works, gaining a deep understanding of the cultural and historical contexts that influence art production and interpretation. The curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and related fields.

Students will engage with a diverse range of visual materials, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, digital media, and installations, across different periods and regions. The program emphasizes critical analysis, encouraging students to develop their own interpretations and arguments about works of art within their social and cultural contexts. In addition to coursework, students will have opportunities to participate in practical internships, exhibits, and fieldwork, which will help them acquire hands-on experience in curatorial techniques, collections management, and exhibition planning.

The program also features specialized courses in curatorial studies, where students learn about exhibition design, collection care, and public engagement strategies. Under the guidance of experienced faculty members, students will plan and organize their own exhibitions, fostering skills in project management, research, and communication. Research methods and academic writing are core components of the program, ensuring graduates are equipped for postgraduate study or roles that require rigorous analytical skills.

Furthermore, the program encourages students to critically examine current debates in the art world, such as issues of cultural heritage, ethics, and representation. Through diverse assessments, including essays, presentations, and curatorial projects, students will hone their ability to articulate complex ideas and arguments convincingly. Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared for careers in museums, galleries, cultural organizations, research institutions, or further academic study in art history and curatorial practice.

A Bachelor degree or international equivalent with a minimum GPA of both 5/7 and English language requirements.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Australian National University offers various funding options for students enrolled in its Art History and Curatorial Studies programs. Domestic students may be eligible for government assistance schemes such as OS-HELP, which provides financial support for students undertaking study abroad or in regional areas. There are also Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) available for eligible domestic students, which significantly reduce the cost of tuition fees, making higher education more accessible. International students can explore scholarships specifically tailored for international entrants, including university-specific scholarships, merit-based awards, and external grants from various organizations. The ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences also provides competitive scholarships that can cover tuition fees or provide stipends for living expenses, thereby alleviating financial burdens. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources such as research grants, fellowships, and sponsorships relevant to arts and cultural studies. The university offers financial aid counseling services to assist students in navigating application procedures for these scholarships and grants. For students pursuing postgraduate studies, there are sometimes research funding opportunities available through the university’s research funding schemes or collaborative projects. Payment plans are often available to help manage tuition fee payments over the duration of the course. It is advisable for prospective and current students to consult the official ANU website or contact the university’s admissions and financial aid offices directly to obtain detailed and up-to-date information on available funding options, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines. The university’s commitment to supporting students financially ensures that capable individuals can pursue advanced studies in Art History and Curatorial Studies without undue economic hardship, fostering a diverse and vibrant academic community.

The Art History and Curatorial Studies program at the Australian National University offers a comprehensive education in the analysis, interpretation, and curation of visual arts from diverse historical periods and regions. This program is designed to develop students’ critical thinking, research skills, and practical knowledge necessary for careers in museums, galleries, cultural organizations, and academic institutions. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical experiences, enabling students to engage with artworks critically while acquiring essential curatorial skills.

Students in this program study a wide range of topics, including the history of art across different cultures, theories of aesthetics, and contemporary curatorial practices. They learn to analyze artworks within their historical, cultural, and social contexts, fostering an understanding of the complex narratives that underpin visual culture. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through internships, exhibitions, and collaborative projects, providing students opportunities to curate exhibitions, manage collections, and develop exhibition proposals.

The program is supervised by leading scholars in the fields of art history and curatorial studies, and students benefit from access to ANU’s extensive collections and research resources. The university’s strong links with cultural institutions across Australia and internationally facilitate industry engagement and professional networking. Graduates of the program are prepared for various roles in museums, galleries, auction houses, cultural heritage organizations, and academic research. They also gain skills applicable in arts management, education, and public programming.

The program can be completed as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, offering flexibility for students at different stages of their academic careers. The Bachelor’s program provides foundational knowledge and skills, while the Master’s program offers advanced coursework and research opportunities. Overall, the Art History and Curatorial Studies program at ANU aims to cultivate informed and innovative professionals capable of contributing meaningfully to the arts and cultural sectors.