MSc Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating and Criticism

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating, and Criticism program at The University of Edinburgh are well-prepared for a diverse range of career paths in the art world, including museums, galleries, cultural institutions, academia, and the art market. With their interdisciplinary training, specialized knowledge, and practical skills in art history, curatorial studies, and critical theory, graduates are equipped to pursue various roles in the field of modern and contemporary art.  

1. Curator or Curatorial Assistant: Graduates may work as curators or curatorial assistants in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions, organizing exhibitions, conducting research, and managing collections of modern and contemporary art. They collaborate with artists, collectors, and other stakeholders to develop exhibition concepts, select artworks, and design exhibition layouts, providing meaningful experiences for visitors and engaging with diverse audiences.

2. Gallery Manager or Art Dealer: Graduates can pursue careers as gallery managers or art dealers in commercial galleries, art fairs, or auction houses, representing artists, promoting artworks, and facilitating sales transactions. They cultivate relationships with collectors, negotiate contracts, and market artworks to clients, contributing to the commercial success of artists and galleries.

3. Art Writer or Critic: Graduates may work as art writers or critics, contributing essays, reviews, and articles to art publications, websites, and blogs. They analyze artworks, exhibitions, and art events, contextualizing them within broader cultural, social, and political contexts and offering critical perspectives and insights to readers and audiences.

4. Educator or Academic Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers in education or academic research, teaching courses in art history, curatorial studies, or cultural studies at universities, colleges, or art schools. They conduct research, publish scholarly articles and books, and supervise student research projects, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of modern and contemporary art.

5. Arts Administrator or Cultural Manager: Graduates may work as arts administrators or cultural managers in non-profit organizations, government agencies, or arts councils, coordinating cultural programs, managing grants, and advocating for arts funding and support. They contribute to the development and sustainability of arts and cultural initiatives, fostering creativity, diversity, and community engagement.

6. Independent Curator or Consultant: Graduates with entrepreneurial spirit may establish their own curatorial practices or consultancy firms, working independently or collaborating with artists, galleries, and cultural institutions on exhibition projects, research initiatives, and public programs. They offer expertise in curatorial strategy, exhibition development, and cultural policy, and may work on freelance or contract basis.

7. Art Market Specialist or Art Advisor: Graduates can work as art market specialists or art advisors, providing expertise in buying, selling, and valuing artworks for private collectors, art investors, or art investment firms. They stay informed about market trends, auction results, and art market regulations, guiding clients in building and managing art collections and investment portfolios.

8. Digital Curator or Online Content Creator: Graduates with knowledge of digital technologies and online platforms may work as digital curators or online content creators, developing digital exhibitions, virtual tours, and multimedia content for museums, galleries, and cultural organizations. They leverage digital tools and social media channels to reach wider audiences and engage with diverse communities.