Faculty: Faculty of Humanities, School of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies. This two-year Master of Arts (MA) program combines advanced study in curating with a significant professional placement. The curriculum will likely cover the theoretical underpinnings of exhibition making, collection management, and the evolving role of the curator over the first year. The second year will be dedicated to a substantial professional placement in a museum, gallery, or related cultural organization, providing invaluable practical experience and networking opportunities.

Career options significantly enhanced by substantial practical experience in museums and galleries (as curators, assistant curators, exhibition managers, collection managers, education officers), independent curatorial practice, arts organizations, heritage sites, digital curating platforms, auction houses, art consultancies, and potentially in arts journalism, research, or academic roles. The professional placement year provides direct industry experience and networking, making graduates highly competitive.

The University of Essex offers a forward-thinking environment and a diverse international community within its Faculty of Humanities, which includes the School of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies, known for its research excellence in the social sciences and humanities. The university's location offers a balance of being close to beautiful countryside while also being only an hour away from London by train, potentially providing access to both a focused academic environment and placement/career opportunities within London's extensive arts and cultural sector. The inclusion of a dedicated professional placement year significantly strengthens career prospects.