How to become an art gallery curator
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- artistic reputation
University
You'll often need a degree in a relevant subject like fine art or art history.
You might also find it useful to have a postgraduate qualification in museum and gallery studies, or in a particular style or period of art.
Paid or unpaid work experience in a gallery, museum or heritage property is usually essential to apply for courses and jobs.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to start by doing an advanced apprenticeship in heritage and cultural operations.
This could lead into gallery assistant or gallery educator jobs. With further training and several years' experience, you could apply for curator roles.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You could work as an assistant curator, conservator or education manager before becoming a gallery curator.
Other Routes
You may be invited to guest curate a gallery, if you're an artist with an established reputation in the art world.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Museums Association for professional development and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about getting into the museum sector from the Museums Association.
You can also find out more about working in related careers from Discover Creative Careers.