Organizer Information
The University of Applied Arts Vienna (Angewandte) hosts the /ecm – Exhibition and Cultural Management Program, a highly regarded postgraduate and professional training initiative focused on curatorial practice and cultural production. The institution is internationally recognized for its critical, interdisciplinary approach to art education, particularly in the fields of Curatorial, Cultural Studies, Contemporary Art, and institutional critique.
The /ecm program was developed to address the increasing need for advanced curatorial training that combines theoretical research with practical cultural management skills. It is designed for professionals working in museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and independent art practices who aim to expand their expertise in exhibition-making, project development, and cultural leadership.
Positioned within one of Europe’s leading art universities, the program benefits from strong academic resources, international faculty, and close engagement with Vienna’s contemporary art ecosystem. It has established a reputation as a rigorous and practice-oriented program that bridges academic research with real-world cultural production.
Title & Description
/ecm – Exhibition and Cultural Management Study Program (Start October 2026)
The /ecm Study Program 2026–2028 is a part-time postgraduate program designed for cultural professionals, curators, and art practitioners who want to develop advanced skills in Curatorial, Exhibition, and cultural project management. The program runs from October 2026 to June 2028 and combines academic study with professional practice across 22 modules and 120 ECTS credits.
The program offers two parallel qualification paths:
- A Master’s-level program leading to the degree Master of Arts (Continuing Education) – MA (CE)
- A professional university course leading to the title of Academic Curator
Both tracks operate within the same curriculum, focusing on critical exhibition-making, research-based practice, and cultural production methodologies. Participants engage in structured modules, collaborative projects, and applied research that culminate in a final academic or practice-based project.
A key feature of the program is its strong integration of theory and practice. Participants develop and implement a Curatorial or cultural project, gaining hands-on experience in exhibition design, institutional collaboration, and cultural programming. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to Art Management, critical thinking, and project-based learning within contemporary cultural contexts.
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in German and English, as well as relevant academic or professional experience. Admission includes a competitive seminar-based selection process designed to evaluate motivation, skills, and future potential in the field of cultural production.
Categories
- Curatorial
- Art Management
- Exhibition
- Contemporary Art
- Cultural Studies
- Visual Arts
- Interdisciplinary Arts
- Education
- Research
- Design
Eligibility
The program is open to international applicants who meet one of the following criteria:
- A completed bachelor’s degree (minimum 180 ECTS) in a relevant field plus professional experience (Master’s track)
- Several years of relevant professional experience or a completed bachelor’s degree (Academic Curator track)
- Strong proficiency in both German and English (minimum B2 level required)
Applicants must also:
- Attend a one-day admission seminar
- Commit to full participation across the entire program duration (2026–2028)
- Demonstrate motivation and relevant experience in Curatorial, cultural, or artistic practice
The program is designed for mid-career professionals, cultural workers, curators, and individuals working in museums, galleries, and independent cultural initiatives.
Program Benefits & Awards
Participants benefit from a structured, practice-oriented advanced education program including:
- Academic qualification: MA (CE) or Academic Curator title
- Intensive training in Curatorial practice and cultural project development
- 120 ECTS postgraduate-level academic program
- Access to international faculty and cultural practitioners
- Development and execution of a real Curatorial or cultural project
- Networking within Europe’s contemporary art and museum sector
- Integration of theoretical research with applied Exhibition practice
Additional institutional benefits:
- Structured mentorship and academic supervision
- Collaborative project-based learning
- Exposure to contemporary cultural production methodologies
- Strong professional positioning in Art Management and curatorial fields
Application Fee
- Admission seminar fee: EUR 150 (deducted from total tuition if accepted)
- Program tuition: EUR 14,000 (VAT exempt, excludes travel and accommodation)
Application Requirements
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Motivation letter (including chosen track: MA or Academic Curator)
- Copies of academic certificates/transcripts
- Registration for the admission seminar
- Proof of relevant academic or professional background
- Language proficiency (German and English, B2 level required)
Additional requirements:
- Participation in admission seminar (mandatory selection step)
- Commitment to full program duration (2026–2028)
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted digitally via email: ecm@uni-ak.ac.at
Key Dates
- Admission Seminar 3, 22 May 2026 Application Deadline: 3 May 2026
Admission Seminar 4, 23 June 2026 Application Deadline: 9 June 2026 - Program Start: October 2026
- Program End: June 2028
- Admission Seminar 3: 22 May 2026 (Deadline: 3 May 2026)
- Admission Seminar 4: 23 June 2026 (Deadline: 9 June 2026)
- Admission Seminar 2: 17 April 2026 (earlier round)
Location
University of Applied Arts Vienna, Vienna, Austria
Additional Details
The program is structured around intensive modular learning, including 22 modules over four semesters. Participants are expected to actively engage in all courses, with a maximum absence limit of 15 teaching units per semester.
Assessment components include written assignments, a project-based research or curatorial output, and a final thesis or practice-based presentation depending on the chosen track.
The /ecm program emphasizes critical engagement with contemporary cultural production, Curatorial methodologies, and institutional practice. It is particularly suited for professionals aiming to transition into higher-level roles in museums, galleries, cultural organizations, or independent curatorial practice.
The selection process is competitive and based on both academic qualifications and demonstrated professional potential in the field of cultural production and Exhibition development.