Australian university launches new arts courses

The University of Sydney is investing in the arts, following the launch of five new postgraduate degrees. Developed through extensive industry research, the courses run for between 18 and 24 months and place a strong focus on providing students with real-world skills and experience.

According to ArtsHub, professor Duncan Ivison, dean of the faculty of arts and social sciences, said: ‘These new Masters programmes are a clear commitment to providing students with an outstanding educational experience and the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and hone their skills.’

The new Masters of Art Curating is taught by department of art history and film studies and the Sydney College of the Arts, and aims to prepare students for future careers as gallery professionals. With a particular focus on non-traditional spaces like pop-up exhibitions and festivals, the course also offers the option of two internships.

Programme coordinator Dr Catriona Moore said: ‘We’ll teach both on campus and in museums and galleries, giving graduates exposure to leaders in the field and valuable industry contacts.’

The Masters of Museum and Heritage Studies will rely on the university’s connections with Art Gallery of NSW, the Australian Museum, the National Maritime Museum, the Historic Houses Trust and the Powerhouse Museum.

Programme coordinator Dr Annie Clarke said: ‘It is designed to equip our graduates with professional and practical knowledge and experience. All of the things you will learn in this course have real-life applications in the world of museums and the growing area of local and global heritage.’