Modern Art - Critical and Curatorial Studies
The Master of Arts in Modern Art – Critical and Curatorial Studies is an intensive program designed for students passionate about modern and contemporary art, museum practices, and curatorial scholarship. The curriculum integrates art history, critical theory, exhibition design, and museum studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of artistic movements, curatorial processes, and public engagement. Through this program, students develop curatorial expertise, critical analysis, research skills, and museum practice competencies, preparing them to organize exhibitions, interpret artworks, and contribute to scholarly and professional discourse in the arts and cultural sectors.
This one year, full time and on campus program immerses students in hands on learning experiences through seminars, research projects, and collaborations with museums and galleries. Students refine collection management, exhibition planning, art historical research, and public programming skills through applied projects and mentorship. Graduates are prepared to work in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and research centers, equipping them to curate exhibitions, manage collections, develop educational programs, and advance scholarship in modern and contemporary art.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Modern Art - Critical and Curatorial Studies
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 14 December 2025
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Museum Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Modern Art and Curatorial Studies
• Introduction to Modern and Contemporary Art
• Critical Theory and Art History
• Museum Practices and Exhibition Studies
• Research Methods in Art and Cultural Studies
Semester 2 – Advanced Curatorial Practice and Applied Projects
• Curatorial Design and Exhibition Planning
• Collection Management and Conservation
• Seminar in Critical Art Analysis
• Capstone Project in Curatorial Studies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, academic research, and arts management. Career paths include curator, museum researcher, collection manager, art historian, and exhibition coordinator. Graduates are equipped to conduct scholarly research, organize exhibitions, manage art collections, develop educational programming, and engage audiences with critical and interpretive insights. The program also prepares learners for leadership, curatorial, and research roles that shape contemporary art presentation, interpretation, and public engagement in museums and cultural spaces.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines curatorial training, critical art analysis, applied museum practice, and research driven learning within a one year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes hands on experience through exhibition projects, applied research, and faculty mentorship, allowing learners to develop practical and scholarly skills in modern art and curatorial studies. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and professional competencies necessary to pursue careers in museums, galleries, research, and cultural institutions while contributing meaningfully to the interpretation, preservation, and presentation of modern and contemporary art.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
