Program Overview

Introduction to Curatorial Studies

The Graduate Diploma in Curatorial Studies at Carleton University offers students a unique blend of disciplinary expertise and applied skills, sought after by cultural institutions. This interdisciplinary program spans the arts, social sciences, and sciences, exposing students to a wide range of museological and curatorial issues.

Program Overview

The program provides two Graduate Diplomas in Curatorial Studies to domestic and international students. The Type 2 Diploma is designed for students seeking practical skills in addition to an MA or PhD at Carleton, and will provide a combination of academic training and professional skills unique in Canada. The stand-alone Type 3 Diploma is designed for students who wish to supplement their academic qualifications with practical training, or for practitioners who wish to upgrade their knowledge and skills. This program includes a two-semester practicum component.

Career Options

Students who complete the Graduate Diploma in Curatorial Studies are well-placed to pursue careers in:

• Art galleries
• Museums of anthropology, history, nature, science, war, etc.
• Dance, film, or music programming
• Government
• Heritage conservation
• Auction houses
• Commercial galleries These sectors, which are rapidly expanding domestically and worldwide, are seeking knowledgeable, well-trained curators able to balance theory and practice. Many Carleton alumni have gone on to successful curatorial careers, and constitute an influential network in the field.

Admission Requirements

Students pursuing a Type 2 Diploma must also fulfill the admission requirements of their degree program. Professionals interested in the Type 3 Diploma, who do not satisfy this degree requirement, must demonstrate relevant professional excellence. The applicability of previous coursework and/or professional experience will be determined on an individual basis.

Program Details

• Degrees: Graduate Diploma
• Entry Terms: Fall
• Experiential Learning: Practicums The program is located in the heart of Canada's national capital region, with a large concentration of galleries, museums, heritage and arts organizations. Significant components of the program are delivered in collaboration with professionals from these institutions, both on-campus at the Carleton University Art Gallery and in the field. These opportunities afford our students both real-world experience, and excellent employment networks.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the program is March 15.