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Museum curators are responsible for managing collections of objects of artistic, scientific, historical and general interest. In a large museum they might be involved in one specialism, while in a small general museum they have a broader role. The main role is to acquire objects, and to research, identify, and catalogue them, usually on computer. Curators are also responsible for ensuring correct storage conditions.
Providing information is an important part of the job - organising displays, writing descriptions of objects, answering visitors’ questions and giving talks to local groups or school parties. Museums are part of the leisure industry, so information combines entertainment and education, presented in an appealing and accessible way. Therefore, attracting visitors is crucial to the work. Other duties include looking after staff issues, security and insurance, and deciding on policy.
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HOURS AND ENVIRONMENT |
| Work is usually 36-37 hours a week on a rota, probably with some weekend work. There could be the opportunity to work part-time.
The environment depends on the type of museum and how busy it is, but work is usually indoors.
There is some lifting and carrying involved, moving crates and boxes of exhibits. A driving licence is often necessary.
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SKILLS AND INTERESTS |
To be a museum curator you should have:
- a keen interest in the past and in the specialist area you’re working in
- good organisational ability, and be capable of running a department or establishment
- accuracy for cataloguing objects
- computer skills for information retrieval
- decision-making and numerical skills for planning, administration and handling budgets
- creative flair for devising displays and exhibitions
- strong communication skills
- an understanding of how to make information accessible to the wider public, including tourists, people with disabilities, various education groups and schools.
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ENTRY |
| You normally need a degree in a relevant subject such as archaeology, history, or a specialist field related to the particular museum. Minimum entry requirements for degree courses are five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3), and two A levels/Advanced Highers/three Higher grades or their equivalent. Some courses specify particular subjects and grades.
For details of qualification equivalents see:
An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. If experienced in a related field, you may be able to gain recognition of skills through Accredited Prior Learning (APL). Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.
To become a curator, you are also likely to need a postgraduate qualification (either a diploma or master’s degree) in museum or heritage studies. Postgraduate courses usually last for one year. Details are available from the Cultural Heritage National Training Organisation.
You will also need voluntary work experience in a museum or property, such as a National Trust property. The National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (NADFAS) runs a volunteer scheme where you can gain experience. As a volunteer or student on work placement you can register for one or more NVQ/SVQ units to provide evidence of your experience.
Some museums recruit from outside the profession, including people experienced in accountancy, administration or marketing.
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TRAINING |
| Training courses, including pre-entry courses, are run by the Area Museums Council. Contact the Cultural Heritage NTO for details.
NVQs/SVQs are available at levels 3, 4 and 5 in Cultural Heritage Operations, Cultural Heritage and Cultural Heritage Management.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24.
For details see: MAPPs (England); Skillseekers MAPPs (Scotland); National Traineeships MAPPs (Wales); and MAPPs (Northern Ireland).
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OPPORTUNITIES |
| Employers include national museums and specialist theatre or transport museums. Local authorities, universities and independent companies also offer opportunities. You may need to move around the country to gain experience, especially if working in a smaller museum with fewer opportunities for promotion.
There may also be opportunities to work overseas.
ANNUAL INCOME
Figures are intended as a guideline only. Pay scales vary for curators depending on whether they work for a large national museum or a small local one.
New entrants are likely to start on around £10,000 to £14,000 per year.
With experience, earnings rise to more than £20,000.
Senior curators are likely to earn between £27,000 and £36,000 per year.
Salaries in London are usually higher.
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