Overview
The Master of Arts in Contemporary Art and Curatorial Practice at the NABA Milan and Rome campuses brings artistic production together with specialised curatorial practice. Taught in Italian or English, this two-year programme connects artwork creation with the research and critical decisions involved in developing exhibitions and publications.
Established in 2006, the programme is led by internationally recognised artists and curators, alongside critics and other thinkers. Students explore how art relates to visual culture and society, developing the theoretical understanding to place their work within contemporary debates and the practical methods to bring projects to fruition.
Artistic experimentation and curatorial research inform one another throughout the course. The programme covers:
- Visual arts and photography
- Curatorial studies and exhibition design
- Editorial studies and critical writing
- Archive studies
- Museology
- The phenomenology of contemporary art
Students develop the skills to work with images and interpret contemporary artistic practices, applying their research to artistic and curatorial projects. Interdisciplinary activities connect this work with the professional context of contemporary art, supporting the production and presentation of projects at an international level.
The programme prepares students for professional paths including:
- Artist
- Curator
- Editor of art magazines and books
- Art critic
- Exhibition designer
- Gallery and museum director
- Auction house consultant
- Art dealer
- Director of public institutions
Accreditation
NABA’s Master of Arts programmes award Second Level Academic Degrees recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR). These qualifications have full legal status and are equivalent to the corresponding university degrees. The academic credits awarded can support progression to further study at academies and universities in Italy and abroad.
Programme Structure
The Master of Arts in Contemporary Art and Curatorial Practice connects artistic research with the development and exhibition of work across two years:
- Year 1: Visual arts, photography, and the phenomenology of contemporary arts explore the relationship between art and visual culture, alongside social and economic influences. Curatorial studies and exhibition design support individual and group research for artistic projects, exhibitions and publications, with attention to different cultural contexts.
- Year 2: Advanced studies in contemporary art history, curating and exhibition design examine how spaces, audiences and institutions shape the production and presentation of art. Students deepen their research through artistic and curatorial projects. Interdisciplinary workshops, experimentation with techniques and materials, and meetings with international art professionals connect study with practice.
Audience
This course is aimed at graduates interested in developing an artistic practice or pursuing curatorial work. It suits those who want to engage critically with contemporary art and its place in society, whether their interests lie in creating work, shaping exhibitions or contributing to art criticism and publishing.
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
Pre-enrolment: between March and November. This procedure is MANDATORY. Usually it takes 90 days to get the study visa, we suggest to start the procedure soon.
Language
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Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Milano, Italy
- Roma, Italy
Disciplines
Visual Arts Museum Studies View 5 other Masters in Museum Studies in ItalyWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
IELTS & PTE Test Preparation
Admission to your dream university starts with a high IELTS or PTE score. Earn your target score with E2's guided test preparation.
- Study on your own schedule
- Live classes with current and ex-examiners
- Accurate score assesment, always
- E2 Score Guarantee - Get your score or your money back!
Other requirements
General requirements
To apply for a NABA Master of Arts, you need a bachelor’s degree or first-level academic diploma and must meet the course’s entry requirements. We may consider other backgrounds if your motivation and research interests are strong.
Complete the application form, pay the fee, and submit:
- Your CV and motivation letter
- A copy of your passport’s photo page
- Your degree certificate and full academic transcripts in English
- A project portfolio (optional for Social Design)
- Proof of Italian at CEFR B1 or English at IELTS 5.0 or an accepted equivalent
Submit the language certificate within one month before the programme begins, and ensure it is no older than 2 years. Native speakers are exempt; an English-taught high school diploma also qualifies, subject to verification by the Admissions Office.
Non-EU applicants needing a study visa must complete UniversItaly pre-enrolment and the relevant consular procedures.
Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at NABA, New Academy of Fine Arts and/or in Italy, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Tuition Fees
-
International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents22750 EUR / year≈ 22750 EUR / year -
EU/EEA Applies to you
Applies to youEU/EEA Nationals10650 EUR / year≈ 10650 EUR / year
Additional Details
EU/EFTA students with 3+ years residency may get reduced fees based on income.
Living costs
Milano
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
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Scholarships Information
Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Contemporary Art and Curatorial Practice.
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.
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