University of the Arts Helsinki

Master of Arts in Praxis – cu­rat­ing and writ­ing in con­tem­po­rary art

Content and objective of the program

Overview

This two-year master’s programme combines rigorous academic study with hands-on curatorial training, exploring contemporary art as a field shaped by questions of societal issues, technology, identity, and ecology. Students work alongside fine arts peers as they study the history, theory and discourse of contemporary art, curating and critical writing, while gaining practical experience across exhibitions, public space projects, publications and digital platforms. Students secure funded placements in arts organisations that align with their interests and goals.

With small-group teaching and a strong emphasis on mediation, collaboration and real-world contexts, the programme prepares students to become responsible, critical and creative art professionals. Throughout their studies, including their thesis projects, students are supported in developing a specialised focus within the broad and evolving landscape of contemporary art. Students have access to the academy’s gallery, Kuva/Tila, library, and art collection.

Curriculum

The course combines practical training in curating and writing through the development of exhibitions and critical texts, alongside theoretical study across a wide range of topics, including the history and theory of exhibition practices. Practical components introduce students to hands-on approaches to curating and equip them with essential professional skills such as developing budgets, fundraising, engaging stakeholders, and designing mediation and public programmes. Students also gain insight into the broad landscape of contemporary art institutions and how they operate. Alongside this, the academy offers a variety of thematic theory courses each year, providing a wide understanding of contemporary art across different practices and critical perspectives.

Students have the opportunity to develop a curatorial project for their thesis. Alternatively, they may submit a written thesis that critically examines a topic of their choosing. Both are developed with the support of the academic team, as well as external mentors.

Professional engagement

Collaborating with a wide range of organisations, from small independent initiatives to well-established institutions, provides students with rich professional experience embedded within the curriculum. Being based in Helsinki allows students to engage directly and regularly with leading cultural institutions in the region, such as Kiasma, EMMA, Helsinki Biennial, Amos Rex, and PUBLICS, as well as a variety of independent art spaces. Beyond Helsinki, we actively participate in study visits, collaborative projects, and networks across the Nordic countries and the Baltics. These frequent engagements encourage students to produce work that is both ambitious and experimental, supported by ongoing dialogue with professional partners.

Internships

Following their first year, students complete a paid internship at an art institution of their choosing. The internship programme is designed to deepen students’ curatorial thinking, expand their professional connections, and develop their practical skills. This immersive period of work gives students direct insight into projects and institutional environments that align with their curatorial interests and long-term career aspirations.

Visiting speakers & excursions

Each year, the programme hosts a wide range of visiting speakers from the fields of visual art, writing, theory, and performance. In addition, an annual excursion to an international biennial is organised for postgraduate students.

Teachers

The academic staff of the programme are established researchers, curators, writers and artists actively working in the field of contemporary art. Visiting lecturers also provide teaching in the programme, and act as supervisors and examiners of students’ thesis projects.