Master in Contemporary Curatorial Practice

The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, known as Wits, is a prominent research-intensive university founded in 1922 and located in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. With a student body exceeding 42,000 and a diverse international community, Wits offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. Its urban campus provides access to cultural institutions, industry partners, and public sector organizations for experiential learning.

Wits is recognized for rigorous research and strong professional programs, offering 322 distinct programs that combine theoretical depth with practical training. The university’s academic environment supports innovation through research centers, clinical training partnerships, and industry collaborations that help students build professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services, orientation programs, and resources to assist with visas, accommodations, and academic advising, helping them integrate into campus life and pursue career ambitions.

Campus life at Wits is dynamic, with active student societies, sporting opportunities, and cultural events that reflect Johannesburg’s diversity. Graduates join a broad alumni network and often find career pathways in South Africa and abroad. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements, funding and scholarship options, and early engagement with faculty to tailor their study plans to research interests or professional objectives.

The Master in Contemporary Curatorial Practice is a one-year program at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, for students with a Bachelor's degree. It offers a Master's degree in English, focusing on curatorial practice and exhibition histories.

The curriculum includes core courses like Curating Exhibitions and Exhibition Histories, as well as one elective. Students also complete a research report with a practical component, which helps them develop skills in exhibition design and management.

Graduates can pursue careers as Curators, Museum Directors, Art Critics, or Exhibition Coordinators. They can work in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions, applying their knowledge of art history and curatorial practice to create engaging exhibitions and programs.