This is an intensive programme that covers the period from 1968 to the present. Directed at students who wish to develop an in-depth understanding of contemporary art while honing their professional skills, it focuses on the art object itself, which is examined in relation to its cultural, institutional, and political contexts.

International in scope, the programme prepares students for careers in a global art world. From the beginning, students study canonical figures and major movements in the history of contemporary art alongside artists and tendencies that have in the past received less attention in the traditional centres of the art world.

Wherever possible, students study works of art in situ. The programme takes advantage of the vitality and international character of London as a centre for contemporary art, holding sessions in galleries, museums and artists’ studios. Students also travel to other European cities, where they visit major collections, galleries and biennials. In the gallery and in the classroom, attention is paid not just to art works but to the curatorial strategies that direct our experience of them and the institutional contexts in which they are displayed.

Throughout the course students participate in seminars in which they discuss historical developments and theoretical models and familiarise themselves with current debates in the field. They attend lectures that are given by a diverse faculty of noted experts and by guest speakers, including prominent curators and gallerists as well as artists and critics. They are also assigned tutors and regularly discuss their interests and receive feedback on their work in one-to-one tutorials.

Many of our graduates now hold important positions in the world of contemporary art, working in London and elsewhere as curators, gallerists, editors, art historians, critics, consultants and auctioneers. Some return regularly to speak to current students while many more keep in touch through our network of alumni.