MA in Curatorial Studies

About the Center for Curatorial Studies, Bard College (CCS Bard)
CCS Bard is a leading exhibition and research institution that is distinguished by its singular resources: the Hessel Museum of Art, dedicated to innovative and experimental approaches to curating with a rich permanent collection; the Library, one of the leading contemporary art research collections in the US focusing on post-1960s art; and the Archives, which contain archives and manuscripts from preeminent curators, inventive commercial art galleries, artist-run spaces, artists’ initiatives, and artists. Together, these resources support one of the world’s most forward-thinking teaching and learning environments for contemporary art research and the study of curatorial practices.

Curriculum: a combination of academics and practice
The two-year graduate program at CCS Bard is designed to deepen students’ understanding of the true tasks of curating and balances a rigorous academic curriculum with hands-on curatorial practice. See the 2023–24 faculty here.

The graduate program culminates in individually curated exhibitions at the Hessel Museum accompanied by original research papers. Thesis exhibitions can include works from the Hessel Collection, temporary loans, new commissions, performance, combinations of the above, and more. While at CCS Bard, students are also offered opportunities to realize curatorial projects in collaboration with partnering institutions. And, during the summer between the first and second years, each student conducts an accredited professional development and work placement at an art institution with a curator, scholar, critic, or other arts professional. Read more about the Graduate Program and our curricular emphases here.

Financial aid
CCS Bard provides generous scholarship and fellowship support to international students and US citizens alike on the basis of academic merit and financial need. Learn more about aid and scholarships.

Visiting
Fall is a great time for prospective students to visit CCS Bard. Prospective visits include sitting in on a class and learning more about our facilities, curriculum, the College, and the admissions process. If you are interested in setting up a visit, please contact Amanda Bard, Graduate Program Administrator, at abard [​at​] bard.edu For general inquiries please call T +1 (845) 758 7588 or email ccsadmissions [​at​] bard.edu.

Applications are due February 1, 2024. For further details or to apply, visit here.