Master in Criticism & Curatorial Practice

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The Master in Criticism & Curatorial Practice is a Master's degree for students who want to acquire advanced research skills in curation, art history, and critical art writing. This one-year program at OCAD University in Toronto, Canada, is taught in English and helps students develop their research skills.

The curriculum focuses on curation, art history, and critical art writing, with students contributing to new knowledge through unique research on artists and artworks. Students develop skills in research, writing, and critical thinking, and learn to draw on theoretical and historical contexts.

Graduates can pursue careers as Curators, Art Critics, or Arts Administrators, working in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions. They can also work as Editors or Writers for art publications, or as Professors in universities, teaching art history and theory, or as Collection Managers in museums and galleries.

OCAD University in Toronto is a leading centre for art and design education with a long history of nurturing creative talent. Serving roughly 4,500 students, including a substantial international cohort, OCAD U emphasizes interdisciplinary practice and experimentation across studio art, design, digital media and emerging technologies. The university’s urban setting in Toronto offers rich cultural resources and industry connections that enhance learning and professional development.

The curriculum at OCAD University blends foundational skills with cross-disciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to explore new materials, technologies and design methods. State-of-the-art studios, workshops and research labs support work in visual arts, industrial design, animation and interaction design. Students benefit from faculty mentorship, exhibitions, industry partnerships and career services that prepare graduates for creative careers and entrepreneurial ventures.

Campus life is vibrant, with galleries, events and collaborative projects linking students to Toronto’s creative industries and cultural institutions. International students receive targeted support for admissions, portfolios, visa guidance and orientation. Prospective applicants should review program-specific entry requirements and deadlines, prepare strong creative portfolios where required, and engage with OCAD U’s advising resources to plan studio practice, internships and post-graduation career steps.