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The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MSc Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating and Criticism
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating, and Criticism at the University of Edinburgh is designed for students passionate about art history and the evolving fields of curating and art criticism. The program provides an in-depth exploration of key artistic movements, practices, and artists from the modern and contemporary periods, alongside a practical understanding of curatorial work and the critical analysis of art in galleries, museums, and public spaces. Students will engage with the theory, history, and philosophy of modern and contemporary art, while also gaining the practical experience and skills necessary to work in curating, art criticism, and cultural institutions. This program is ideal for students aiming for careers in art galleries, museums, cultural organizations, and academia.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc in Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating, and Criticism is interdisciplinary, offering a rich balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Core modules include "Modern and Contemporary Art: Theory and Practice," where students explore key themes and movements in modern and contemporary art, and "Curating and Display," which examines the strategies behind curating art exhibitions and engaging the public with artworks. Other modules delve into "Art Criticism," offering students the tools to critically analyze and write about art, and "Museology and Museum Studies," which provides an overview of museum operations and practices. The program also includes practical components, such as opportunities for curatorial internships and working with contemporary art collections. A final dissertation allows students to explore a topic of their choice, applying their learning to contemporary issues in art history, curating, and criticism.
Research Focus: The University of Edinburgh is a leader in research related to modern and contemporary art, with faculty members who are recognized experts in art history, curating, and critical theory. Research in the Department of History of Art is particularly strong in areas such as modernism, postmodernism, contemporary art movements, and the relationship between art, society, and politics. The university’s research centers, such as the Edinburgh College of Art, provide students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on a variety of topics, from the development of art in the 20th and 21st centuries to the history of art institutions and curatorial practices. The program encourages students to develop their own research projects, contributing to the ongoing scholarly discussions on modern and contemporary art.
Industry Engagement: The MSc in Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating, and Criticism offers extensive opportunities for industry engagement, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience in the world of art curation and criticism. The program has strong ties with local and international galleries, museums, and art organizations, offering students the chance to undertake internships and gain practical experience in curating, exhibition design, and museum operations. These collaborations provide students with invaluable networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with art professionals and gain insights into the industry. In addition to industry placements, students benefit from seminars, guest lectures, and workshops led by art curators, critics, and scholars, further enhancing their practical knowledge and career prospects in the art world.
Global Perspective: The University of Edinburgh's MSc in Modern and Contemporary Art: History, Curating, and Criticism offers a global perspective on the study and practice of art. The program examines not only the development of Western art but also global art movements, the role of non-Western artists, and the impact of global political and social changes on contemporary art. With an international student body and faculty, the program encourages cross-cultural exchange and offers students a comprehensive understanding of art in a global context. The university’s global research partnerships and collaborations with museums, galleries, and cultural institutions around the world provide students with opportunities to engage with art on an international scale, contributing to a broader understanding of the current trends and debates in contemporary art.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 28800
Postgraduate entry requirements:
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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.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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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).
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
