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Overview
Overview
Candidates interested in curatorial work often pursue advanced degrees, most commonly in art history, museum studies, fine arts, or a related field. Many curatorial positions, especially in larger museums or historical collections, may require or strongly prefer a PhD. However, this can vary depending on the institution, collection area, and type of curatorial work. Contemporary art curators, for example, are not always required to have a PhD, and may come from a wider range of academic, artistic, or professional backgrounds.
The curatorial field also requires extensive experience. This can include internships, research assistantships, writing, exhibition work, teaching, collection research, public programming, and close collaboration with artists, communities, and museum staff. Because curatorial work brings together scholarship, storytelling, object care, communication, and public engagement, it is helpful to gain experience in many different museum and arts settings.
Professional Organization Search Directories
Association of Art Museum Curators
A professional organization focused specifically on curators, curatorial practice, mentorship, networking, and career development.
A broader museum organization that offers resources, job postings, professional standards, and information for many museum career paths, including curatorial work.
Internships Directories and Opportunities
Offers a wide range of internships and fellowships across museums, research centers, archives, conservation departments, and public history spaces.
Provides internships and opportunities connected to museum departments, exhibitions, collections, education, conservation, and research.
ISCP, International Studio & Curatorial Program
A helpful resource for students interested in contemporary art, curatorial practice, artist residencies, international exchange, and exhibition development.
Prerequisite Work for Master's Programs
Many master’s programs in art history, museum studies, curatorial studies, and related fields require application materials that show both academic preparation and a clear sense of direction. These requirements can vary by school, but they often ask students to demonstrate their research skills, writing ability, and professional interests.
A common requirement is a writing sample, often a 15 to 25 page research paper. This sample should show critical thinking, scholarly research, strong writing, and the ability to develop an argument. For students interested in curatorial or collections-based work, this can also be a chance to show how they think about objects, histories, artists, materials, or exhibitions.
Programs also usually ask for a statement of purpose or statement of intent. This is where applicants explain their research interests, professional goals, and why the specific program is a good fit. Some programs may also ask applicants to identify potential advisors, faculty members, or areas of study that connect to their interests.
Most applications require two to three letters of recommendation, usually from professors, advisors, or supervisors who can speak to the applicant’s academic work, research ability, writing, curiosity, and readiness for graduate study.
Some programs may also require or strongly recommend foreign language proficiency, especially for art history or research-focused degrees. Common languages include German and French, though the most useful language often depends on the student’s research area, region, or objects of study.
These requirements may feel intimidating at first, but they are also helpful ways to understand what graduate programs are looking for: curiosity, focus, writing ability, research experience, and a clear reason for pursuing the field.
Source:
“MA in Art History and Museum Studies | Department of the History of Art and Architecture.” 2026. Tufts University. https://as.tufts.edu/art-architecture/academics/graduate-programs/ma-art-history-and-museum-studies.
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