Master of Art Curating – University of Sydney

Master's Degree Social Sciences & Psychology Full Time

Master of Art Curating

at University of Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

079211C

CRICOS provider code

00026A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$77,700 total

Per year

A$51,800/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Art Curating at the University of Sydney is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills for careers in the curatorial sector. The course explores contemporary and historical curatorial practices, museum management, exhibition design, and the social and ethical responsibilities of working with collections. Students develop expertise in interpreting and presenting visual culture, and gain insight into the creative, political, and administrative facets of the art world in Australia and globally.

Delivered over 1.5 years of full-time study, the program is structured with a series of units of study, each assigned a set number of credit points contributing to the total degree requirements. Students engage in advanced coursework, critical analysis, and may participate in a capstone project or research opportunity that synthesises their learning. The curriculum often incorporates work-integrated learning through partnerships with leading galleries, museums, and cultural institutions within Sydney, connecting theory with professional practice and offering valuable industry insight.

Throughout the program, you will develop skills in exhibition planning, collection management, curatorial writing, and audience engagement. You will also enhance your ability to critically evaluate artworks and exhibitions, administer projects, and communicate effectively within the contemporary arts sector. This degree is ideal for those wishing to lead in curatorial roles, from recent graduates in the arts and humanities to professionals seeking specialised knowledge to advance their careers.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency (e.g. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5), and further information should be confirmed via the official course page. The course is listed on the CRICOS register (079211C). Students are eligible for work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and may be able to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-graduation.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Curator in public and private galleries, museums, and artist-run spaces
Exhibition coordinator or manager
Art gallery or museum educator
Cultural program manager
Collection manager or registrar
Art writer, researcher, or critic
Arts administrator in government, not-for-profit, or commercial sectors

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Art Curating at University of Sydney?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$77,700 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Curator in public and private galleries, museums, and artist-run spacesExhibition coordinator or managerArt gallery or museum educatorCultural program managerCollection manager or registrarArt writer, researcher, or criticArts administrator in government, not-for-profit, or comme...

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