Curatorial Studies

Curatorial Studies at the University of Groningen offers an in-depth exploration of the art of curation, focusing on the development, management, and presentation of art exhibitions and cultural projects. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about contemporary art, museum practices, and cultural heritage, and who wish to develop their skills in curating, critical analysis, and the organization of art events. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse range of topics including art theory, museology, collection management, exhibition design, and public programming. They are encouraged to critically evaluate the role of the curator and the impact of cultural institutions in society. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical experience, enabling students to develop their own curatorial projects, work with real collections, and collaborate with cultural organizations. The programme also emphasizes current trends in digital curation and the use of innovative technologies in presenting and interpreting art. An important aspect of the programme is international perspectives, providing students with exposure to global practices and networks in the field of curatorial work. Graduates of Curatorial Studies are well-equipped for careers in museums, galleries, cultural organizations, and art institutions, as well as for further academic research. The university’s strong links with the cultural sector and its vibrant arts community provide students with ample opportunities for internships and networking. With a commitment to fostering creative and critical thinking, the programme aims to prepare the next generation of innovative curators who can contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape.

The Master's in Curatorial Studies at the University of Groningen offers an in-depth exploration of contemporary curatorial practices, focusing on the dynamic relationship between museums, galleries, and the broader cultural sector. This program is designed for students who wish to develop advanced skills in curation, exhibition planning, and cultural management, equipping them to become innovative professionals in the arts and heritage fields. Throughout the course, students engage with theoretical frameworks and practical applications, gaining insight into the history and theory of curatorship, as well as contemporary challenges faced by cultural institutions. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including collection management, exhibition design, audience engagement, and the use of digital technology in curation. Students are encouraged to critically analyze the role of the curator in society and to develop their own curatorial projects, often collaborating with museums, galleries, and cultural organizations locally and internationally. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, offering opportunities for internships, project development, and participation in real-world exhibitions. Faculty members, comprising experienced curators, researchers, and cultural practitioners, guide students through this intensive curriculum. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in museums, galleries, art organizations, and cultural policy institutions. They possess the skills necessary to curate compelling exhibitions, manage collections effectively, and contribute to cultural discourse on various scales. The Master's in Curatorial Studies at the University of Groningen is ideal for individuals passionate about arts and culture and aiming to make a meaningful impact in the cultural sector through innovative curatorial practices and thoughtful engagement with diverse audiences.

Admission requirements

Minimum language requirements of TOEFL iBT 86 (with a minimum of 20 on all items), or IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 on all items). ERK level B2 (preferably C1).

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelordiploma Kunstgeschiedenis. Studenten met een WO- of HBO-bachelordiploma in een verwante richting kunnen misschien worden toegelaten. Dit moet beoordeeld worden door de toelatingscommissie Kunstgeschiedenis. Neem voor meer informatie contact op met de studieadviseur (mw. J. (Judie) Bogers, j.bogers@rug.nl)
2. taaltoets cijfer Minimum language requirements of TOEFL iBT 86 (with a minimum of 20 on all items), or IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 on all items). ERK level B2 (preferably C1).

The Master's programme in Curatorial Studies at the University of Groningen offers a range of financing options for prospective students to support their studies. International students are encouraged to explore various funding opportunities, including Dutch government grants, scholarships, and university-specific bursaries. The Dutch government provides a number of scholarships such as the Holland Scholarship, which is available to non-EU/EEA students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. Additionally, the university itself offers several scholarships aimed at both domestic and international students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with postgraduate education. These university scholarships are awarded based on merit, and applicants are advised to review the specific eligibility criteria and application procedures well in advance of application deadlines.

Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including international scholarship programs, private foundations, and cultural organizations that support arts and curatorial studies. Many of these external scholarships have specific eligibility criteria related to country of origin, academic performance, or intended field of study, and applicants should prepare comprehensive supporting documents to strengthen their applications. Some students may also consider student loans available through their home countries or international lending institutions, which can provide flexible repayment options after graduation.

The University of Groningen also supports students in finding part-time work opportunities on or near campus that can help mitigate living expenses and provide valuable professional experience in the arts sector. Additionally, students are advised to carefully plan their budgets, considering tuition fees, accommodation costs, living expenses, and health insurance, all of which vary depending on the student's nationality and personal circumstances. The university's student support services and financial aid advisors are available to provide guidance on the most suitable financing options tailored to each student's profile.

Overall, while funding opportunities for the Master’s programme in Curatorial Studies are competitive, numerous pathways exist for students to finance their education, including scholarships, grants, external funding, and part-time employment. Prospective applicants are encouraged to research and apply for multiple sources of funding early in their admission process to ensure they secure adequate financial resources for the duration of their studies at the University of Groningen.

The Master’s programme in Curatorial Studies at the University of Groningen offers students an in-depth exploration of the theoretical and practical aspects of curating in contemporary art and cultural heritage contexts. This programme is designed to prepare graduates for professional roles within museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and independent curatorial practices. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, innovative curatorial methods, and ethical considerations involved in the selection, presentation, and interpretation of art and cultural collections. Students engage with a diverse range of topics including contemporary art theories, exhibition design, collections management, and museum education. The programme encourages practical experience through internships, collaborative projects, and curatorial research assignments.

Faculty expertise spans a variety of disciplines related to arts, culture, and heritage, offering students access to a rich academic environment. The programme aims to develop skills in curatorial research, exhibition development, storytelling, and communication. It also aims to foster an understanding of the social, political, and economic factors influencing cultural institutions today. The duration of the Master’s programme is typically two years, during which students attend seminars, workshops, and field trips, and engage in individual and group projects. Graduates of the programme are well equipped to pursue careers as curators, museum educators, cultural policy advisors, and researchers. The University of Groningen’s strong network with cultural institutions and its international academic environment enhance students' opportunities for professional development and networking.