Executive Master in Cultural Leadership

Learn what it takes to be a leader in the arts and culture sector, and benefit from the Royal Academy’s 250-year legacy as a leading art institution.

Our 18-month Executive Master’s programme brings together cultural leaders, practitioners and academics to give you a 360 degree view of this global industry. Developed jointly by the RA and Maastricht University in the Netherlands, it provides participants with insights into arts business and management, along with critical perspectives in arts and culture, art law, research methods, personal leadership, technology and innovation, collecting and collections management, and exhibitions and events.

Designed for working professionals, the programme comprises week-long sessions in London, Maastricht and Brussels. A thesis or professional project will allow you to apply your learning to real-world scenarios, and a study trip also complements the taught courses. Participants can draw on the resources of the RA and its unique location surrounded by auction houses, commercial galleries and neighbouring collections.

Throughout, our network of professionals, academics and scholars can help participants take ownership of their cultural leadership development and goals, and guide them in career choices, as well as provide advice for entrepreneurs who want to set up their own business.

Due to Covid-19, we are accepting late applications for our 2021 programme. Places are limited and we will not accept further applications once all the spaces are filled.