Application information - CCS Bard

Program Overview

CCS Bard offers a graduate curatorial program. The graduate curriculum encourages discussion of curatorial issues among students of varied backgrounds and interests, with half of each student's courses taken with their entering class.

Application Deadline

• Submission deadline: February 1

Application Requirements

• Statement of purpose (700–900 words): describe your interest in the graduate program, goals at CCS Bard, previous academic and professional preparation, and familiarity with contemporary art issues
• Proposal for a curated project (500–700 words): include a list of suggested works
• Curriculum vitae
• Official transcripts from undergraduate institutions, sent directly to CCS Bard
• Two letters of recommendation (submitted via online application)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must hold a B.A., B.S., or B.F.A. degree from an accredited U.S. college or university or a baccalaureate or equivalent degree from outside the U.S. An applicant's undergraduate major need not be in art history or studio arts, but applicants must demonstrate broad knowledge of art history and acquaintance with contemporary visual arts.

International Student Requirements

In addition to standard application materials, international students must provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., minimum TOEFL score of 550) and proof of financial support through a Certification of Finances, demonstrating sufficient income from all sources to cover expenses for the duration of study.

Key Dates

• January 1 – February 1: FAFSA submission (U.S. citizens)
• February 1: Application and International Student financial aid application due
• March 31: Notification of admission and financial aid awards
• April 15: New students' decision to enroll and $515 enrollment deposit due
• July: Fall tuition payment due
• December: Spring tuition payment due

Financial Aid

CCS Bard provides significant scholarship and fellowship awards based on need and merit. Eligibility is assessed through the FAFSA (U.S. citizens) or International Student Financial Aid Application. Awards include CCS Bard Scholarships (based on financial need), CCS Bard Fellowships (based on academic merit), The Lowery Stokes Sims Scholarships (for under-represented backgrounds in curatorial and museum fields), and the Forge Scholarship for Indigenous Art. Awards are renewable for the second year and applied toward tuition each semester.

Transfer Credit Policy

Only limited transfer credits (no more than 4 credits or equivalent of two courses) will be given for coursework completed elsewhere. Requests must be made at application and are reviewed by the Graduate Committee. Transfer credits may only be used to meet elective course requirements.