The graduate program at the Center for Curatorial Studies, Bard College (CCS Bard) is an intensive course of study in the history of contemporary art, the institutions and practices of exhibition making, and the theory and criticism of contemporary art since the 1960s. The program is broadly interdisciplinary and provides practical training and experience within a museum setting. Its international faculty includes curators and other museum professionals, scholars in the humanities and social sciences, artists, and critics.

The two-year curriculum is specifically designed to deepen students’ understanding of the intellectual and technical tasks of curating exhibitions and projects around contemporary art, particularly within the complex social and cultural situations of present-day arts institutions, as well as focusing intensively on interpretive and critical writing.

CCS Bard provides generous scholarship and fellowship support to international students and U.S. citizens alike on the basis of financial need and academic merit. More on aid and scholarships here.

CCS Bard initiated its graduate program in curatorial studies in the Fall of 1994. Hundreds of illustrious curators, critics, scholars, artists, and other art professionals have taught seminars or lectured in practicums and courses since the program began. CCS Bard alumni/ae now include over 300 figures working prominently in the field in the U.S. and abroad.

The CCS Bard Alumni Network is an online resource connecting current and former students, faculty, and staff. If you are a current or former student, faculty, or staff of CCS Bard and are not already registered, email support@ccsbardalumni.network for your invitation code.

Alumni Network site