Curatorial Practices
Master of Arts, Curatorial Practices
The Master of Arts in Curatorial Practices program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) draws on the School's unique position within one of the world's leading museums—the Art Institute of Chicago. Here, Curatorial Practices combines art history, critical theory, and exhibition studies alongside coursework in arts administration and policy. The program will prepares you to navigate and redefine the contemporary art world through careers spanning museums, galleries, publishing, arts nonprofits, teaching, and more.
Graduate Admissions Events
Learn how to prepare a competitive application, meet with faculty and staff, and explore our programs and facilities.
Jess Bass, Goo & Ooo, 2022
A New Type of Curation
With courses in curation, art history, and arts management and administration, you'll engage in hands-on learning alongside scholarly research. You'll develop critical, ethical, and historically informed approaches to curatorial practice while fostering original research, exhibition development, and public engagement that connect scholarship with contemporary cultural practice. As a result, graduates are fully prepared for dynamic careers across museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and arts nonprofits.
The Art Institute of Chicago Is Your Training Ground
Instead of just reading about exhibitions or looking at works in a textbook, you’ll study at the Art Institute of Chicago, where you can see for yourself how a major museum show comes together.
Hands-On Experience Before You Graduate
Through the Management Studio curriculum, you’ll get an immersive, studio-like learning experience working on real projects with partners from museums, galleries, arts organizations, and beyond.
Nell Pimentel, 2026 Low-Residency MFA Thesis Exhibition
You’ll Be Prepared for What Comes Next
Studying Curatorial Practices at SAIC means you’ll gain a deep understanding of the arts ecosystem while learning the leadership and analytical skills needed to address the evolving challenges and opportunities of the visual arts and cultural sector.
Take the Next Step
MA in Curatorial Practices Admissions Information
Visit the graduate admissions website or contact the graduate admissions office at 800.232.7242 or gradmiss@saic.edu.
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