MA Global Gallery Studies

Students will engage with various theoretical modules including an introduction to global gallery studies, art history for curators and digital arts and humanities, as well as practice-based modules including cutting-edge learning experiences with The Glucksman (UCC’s award-winning on-campus gallery), fieldwork in international galleries and a project-led internship with a prominent fine art gallery in Ireland or internationally.

The MA has a specialisation in global art and gallery studies with a genuine global emphasis. The taught and applied elements of the MA not only engage with Irish, European and American gallery practices, but they also focus on recent state-of-the-art gallery practice in non-western countries—for example in the United Arab Emirates and China. Students are taught by established expert practitioners and we ensure to facilitate networking opportunities for students with industry both nationally and internationally, subsequently exposing our graduates to active employers and potential employment opportunities. Furthermore, responding to industry requirements, training in Digital Arts and Humanities is offered in the programme.

Global Galleries Fieldwork Information: 

Students will undertake group international fieldwork of 1 x week duration, which is led by a member of faculty. Fieldwork locations can include: United Arab Emirates or China or USA or various European countries. The fieldwork location will be set in semester 1 and students will receive a scholarship to cover select travel expenses for this ‘Global Galleries Fieldwork’ module.

Project-Led Gallery Internship information:
Students participate in real-life projects through their internship. Students will undertake 1 x project-led gallery internship of 4 x weeks duration, where they will learn aspects of gallery practices, as well as the opportunity to work on a particular project. The module is comprised of taught workshops in Semesters 1 & 2, and the internship commences towards the end of Semester 2 (March/April). History of Art will arrange all internships for the students.

Skills and Careers Information:
We support the gallery profession through entry-level training and continuing professional development of existing staff.

What an MA in Global Gallery Studies Means for Your Future Career 

See HERE 

Student Testimonials

“The course is structured to perfection ensuring that as a student I get maximum exposure to both art, the gallery space and other disciplines that supplement these studies. I have been able to apply philosophy, psychology, etymology, iconography, geography, history, digital humanities and archaeology and many other humanities subjects to my essays, presentations and general discussions which makes this MA a fantastic choice for Arts & Humanities students in general. The MA prepares you for the workplace and the highly practical nature of the course is a delight as I get the opportunity to participate in the curation of a project in a dedicated gallery space. This MA is by far the most forward-thinking and ground-breaking education I have experienced.”

“As soon as I heard about University College Cork’s new MA in Global Gallery Studies, I knew it was the course for me. For the longest time I could not decide whether I wanted to pursue an MA in History of Art or Gallery Studies; however, upon discovering the MA in Global Gallery Studies, I can now say it is a wonderful combination of both of these two aspects and suits me perfectly.”

“The lecturers are always willing and able to meet with students and work with them on their own individual strengths so that they can get as much out of the programme as possible. What appealed to me the most about this programme was that there was an opportunity to do a field trip as well as an internship during your time. Both of these opportunities allow us as students, to use the theory we have learned in the classroom and apply it in a working gallery space.”

“I cannot speak highly enough of this MA: it is giving so much to me. I am given the opportunity to study and research so many topics, perspectives and spaces which were previously unfamiliar to me. My thinking is pushed outside of my comfort zone, yet I am supported. I am now even questioning my role and position in the world as an Italian and European woman: I love that.”

“What was unique about my learning experience in the United Arab Emirates was that I did not just observe works of art in gallery spaces, but I also met the artists and curators behind the exhibitions…I feel that this trip broke down barriers for me.”

Placement or Study Abroad Information

Global Galleries Fieldwork Information:

Students will undertake group fieldwork with a member of faculty of one week duration. Students will receive a scholarship to cover select travel expenses for the ‘Global Galleries Fieldwork’ module. Fieldwork locations can include: United Arab Emirates or China or USA or various European countries.

Project-Led Gallery Internship information: 

Students participate in real-life projects through their internship. Students will undertake 1 x project-led gallery internship of four weeks duration, where they will learn aspects of gallery practices, as well as the opportunity to work on a particular project. The module is comprised of taught workshops in Semesters 1 & 2, and the internship commences towards the end of Semester 2 (March/April). History of Art will arrange all internships for the students.