COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA Curating at Essex is structured to provide a comprehensive balance of practical, theoretical, and research-based learning, equipping students with the skills and knowledge required for professional curatorial practice. Core compulsory modules include Critique and Curating, which develops students’ ability to analyse and evaluate curatorial practice critically, and Collecting Art from Latin America, which offers insight into the historical, social, and cultural contexts of collecting practices. Students can further tailor their studies through optional Art History or Curating modules, allowing exploration of areas that align with their interests and career goals. The Dissertation, a core component carrying 80 credits, enables students to undertake an independent, in-depth research project, fostering advanced research, analytical, and writing skills essential for curatorial work. The program also incorporates the Seminar Series for Art History, which facilitates engagement with contemporary debates and scholarship, enhancing critical thinking and professional dialogue. Additionally, students complete AR912-7-AU, a compulsory component designed to support their practical and professional development. Overall, the MA Curating combines academic study, hands-on practical experience, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to pursue careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, or further research and academic study, while providing a strong foundation in curatorial theory, historical knowledge, and professional practice.