Course description
Focus on art from the 1960s to the present, developing an in-depth understanding of the artists, theories, and movements that define contemporary art.
This program provides an in-depth academic understanding of contemporary art and fosters the professional skills needed to work in the field. Contemporary art is examined in relation to its makers and its making, the cultural and critical ideas that informed it, and as art object: its curation and display, entry into museum culture, place in art history, and status as an art commodity. Studies are anchored in the close study of visual art and critical thought, with classroom learning by leading faculty and guest speakers complemented by faculty-led, specially-designed visits to the galleries, museums, and artists’ studios of New York City and by international Field Study. Trained to be conversant with art objects and ideas as well as the commercial and institutional contexts in which they are embedded, students are prepared for a wide range of careers in the art world. Download the Master’s prospectus.
Upcoming start dates
Training Course Content
Designed to immerse students in all aspects of the contemporary art scene, this program provides privileged access to arts professionals and guest speakers drawn from every sector of the industry. The program’s first semester supplies foundations in the study of objects, ideas, histories, and exhibitions. In the second semester, students examine the history of art since 2000; survey key institutions — galleries, auction houses, and museums — through which contemporary art flows. A course on business skills covers key areas in art law, commerce, and fine art valuation.
The Master’s degree is awarded for 30 credits across semesters one and two, as well as the completion of a 6-credit thesis or capstone project in the third semester.
The MA in Contemporary Art culminates in a capstone project which can take the form of a traditional, long-form academic thesis, or a more flexible Master’s Project (often a business plan or curatorial project). Students may also elect to extend their studies an additional semester and either transfer to the Institute’s campus in London or return to New York and pursue core courses in either Art Business or Fine and Decorative Art and Design.
Course delivery details
Designed to immerse students in all aspects of the contemporary art scene, this program provides privileged access to arts professionals and guest speakers drawn from every sector of the industry. The program’s first semester supplies foundations in the study of objects, ideas, histories, and exhibitions. In the second semester, students examine the history of art since 2000; survey key institutions — galleries, auction houses, and museums — through which contemporary art flows. A course on business skills covers key areas in art law, commerce, and fine art valuation.
The Master’s degree is awarded for 30 credits across semesters one and two, as well as the completion of a 6-credit thesis or capstone project in the third semester.
The MA in Contemporary Art culminates in a capstone project which can take the form of a traditional, long-form academic thesis, or a more flexible Master’s Project (often a business plan or curatorial project). Students may also elect to extend their studies an additional semester and either transfer to the Institute’s campus in London or return to New York and pursue core courses in either Art Business or Fine and Decorative Art and Design.
Expenses
- Semester 1: 15 credits
- Semester 2: 15 credits
- Semester 3: 6 credits
- Tuition: $1,878 per credit
- Travel Fee: Each field study trip typically ranges from $3,800 to $5,000 according to destination. Travel fees are indicative only and subject to change.
- Materials Fee: $824
- International Student Fee: $206
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Sotheby's Institute of Art
Sotheby’s auction house was founded in 1744 when Samuel Baker, an entrepreneur, occasional publisher, and successful businessman held his first auction. Today at Sotheby’s Institute, we emphasize a keen understanding of an object’s value and history, a spirit of inquiry...