MA Curating Cultures
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
SOAS University of London, one of the world's leading institutions for the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, is renowned for its specialized approach to higher education. Established in 1916, it has built a reputation as a global center for research and education focused on regions often underrepresented in traditional Western academic settings. SOAS offers a unique blend of cultural and historical studies, making it the ideal place for students with a keen interest in global perspectives and cross-cultural engagement. One of the standout programs offered by SOAS is the MA Curating Cultures, which prepares students for a career in the dynamic field of cultural curating, focusing on both global heritage and contemporary cultural practices.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Curating Cultures at SOAS is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of cultural curating within a global context. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, addressing the complexities of curating diverse collections, cultural narratives, and exhibitions. It covers areas such as museum studies, the role of curators in global cultural diplomacy, and the ethical considerations involved in curating culturally sensitive materials. Students gain exposure to a variety of cultural settings, from contemporary art to historical artifacts, and are encouraged to engage critically with the intersection of culture, identity, and politics in the curation of exhibitions. The course also includes opportunities for fieldwork and placements, ensuring that students have real-world experience to complement their academic learning.
Research Focus: At SOAS, research is a central aspect of its academic ethos, with a strong focus on areas that are often underexplored in traditional Western scholarship. The university’s research in cultural studies, anthropology, and museum studies is world-class, and students in the MA Curating Cultures program benefit from SOAS's extensive research resources. The university is home to a diverse range of scholars with expertise in areas such as cultural heritage management, contemporary art, and the politics of museums and galleries. Students are encouraged to engage in original research and develop their own areas of focus, whether that be curating for museums in the Global South, addressing postcolonial issues in exhibition practices, or exploring new digital methods for curating.
Industry Engagement: SOAS has strong ties with leading cultural institutions, museums, galleries, and heritage organizations globally. This provides students with invaluable opportunities for professional networking, internships, and collaborative projects. The university regularly invites guest lecturers and professionals from various sectors to share their expertise, ensuring that students stay updated on current trends and challenges within the industry. The MA Curating Cultures program, in particular, offers students opportunities to engage with major cultural organizations in London and beyond, giving them access to real-world experience and insight into the operations of these institutions. By building these industry connections, SOAS ensures that graduates are well-prepared for a career in curating, cultural policy, and heritage management.
Global Perspective: SOAS's commitment to a global perspective is one of the hallmarks of its educational philosophy. The university's emphasis on non-Western cultures and histories allows students to broaden their understanding of global issues in the arts, heritage, and cultural policy. This global approach is reflected in the curriculum, which incorporates cross-cultural studies, international perspectives, and the study of global networks in the cultural sector. Students are encouraged to consider how global issues such as decolonization, cultural appropriation, and the representation of marginalized communities affect curating practices. By engaging with cultures from all corners of the globe, SOAS students are equipped with the skills to think critically about the role of curating in shaping both local and global narratives.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Graduates of the MA Curating Cultures program at SOAS University of London are well-equipped to embark on a wide range of careers in the cultural sector. The program’s unique focus on global cultures, contemporary art, and museum studies ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in an evolving global industry.
Museum Curator: One of the most direct career paths for graduates is becoming a museum curator. With expertise in curating collections, exhibition design, and cultural heritage management, graduates can work in national and international museums. They may specialize in specific types of collections, such as contemporary art, ethnographic collections, historical artifacts, or even rare and ancient materials. SOAS’s program emphasizes the role of curators in representing diverse cultural narratives, which positions graduates as experts in handling sensitive cultural materials from various global perspectives.
Exhibition Designer/Manager: As exhibition design becomes increasingly complex, curators are also expected to manage the logistics of exhibition planning and design. MA Curating Cultures graduates are well-prepared to take on roles that involve conceptualizing, planning, and executing exhibitions in museums, galleries, and cultural centers. Exhibition designers combine their artistic and academic expertise to craft visually engaging displays that communicate complex ideas and histories to a broad audience.
Cultural Heritage Consultant: Many graduates pursue careers as cultural heritage consultants, working with governmental organizations, NGOs, and private companies to help preserve and protect cultural heritage sites and artifacts. This could involve conducting assessments of cultural properties, offering advice on preservation methods, or assisting in the development of policies to safeguard cultural resources.
Gallery Curator/Manager: With the growth of contemporary art galleries worldwide, MA Curating Cultures graduates are well-positioned for roles as gallery curators or managers. These roles involve selecting and displaying artwork, organizing gallery events, and engaging with the art community. Graduates can work in commercial galleries, artist-run spaces, or public art institutions, curating exhibitions that reflect both global and contemporary art trends.
Cultural Policy Advisor: Graduates of the program may also work in cultural policy development, advising governments, international organizations, or museums on cultural affairs, funding allocation, and the development of policies related to cultural heritage. Cultural policy advisors play a crucial role in shaping how cultural institutions interact with the public and how cultural heritage is managed at the national and international levels.
Art Auction Houses & Art Market Professionals: The skills acquired in the MA Curating Cultures program can be applied to the art market, including roles in art auction houses, art consultancy firms, and private art collections. Graduates may become experts in evaluating artworks, managing sales, and providing insight into the value of cultural objects in the global market. This could also include roles as art advisors or art sales managers for high-profile collectors or institutions.
Cultural Event Coordinator: Organizing cultural events, festivals, and international exhibitions requires a deep understanding of cultural representation and logistical planning. Graduates may work for arts organizations or event management firms, overseeing the production of large-scale cultural events that celebrate diverse artistic traditions. This role combines project management, public relations, and cultural expertise to create impactful events.
Digital Curator and Archivist: With the rise of digital platforms, the role of the digital curator has become increasingly prominent. Graduates of the MA Curating Cultures program may take on roles as digital curators or archivists, managing online collections, creating virtual exhibitions, or curating digital archives for museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. This involves combining traditional curatorial skills with digital technologies to make cultural materials more accessible to a global audience.
Academic Careers: For those interested in continuing their academic journey, the MA Curating Cultures program serves as a strong foundation for pursuing a Ph.D. in museum studies, cultural history, or related fields. Graduates can go on to teach, conduct research, or publish in academic journals, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in the fields of curation and cultural studies.
Cultural Diplomat: Graduates of the program may also work in cultural diplomacy, promoting international understanding through cultural exchange. This could involve working with embassies, international organizations, or cultural institutions to foster relationships between countries through shared cultural experiences. Cultural diplomats help bridge cultural divides and promote the importance of cultural heritage on a global scale.
