ANN: Executive Master in Cultural Leadership now accepting applications for its 8th Cohort for March 2026

The Executive Master in Cultural Leadership at Maastricht University is a transformative programme designed for professionals who aspire to shape the future of within arts and culture. Developed in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Arts, the programme bridges academic insight and real-world leadership, preparing professionals to navigate the complex cultural landscape with confidence, creativity, and strategic vision.

Throughout the programme, participants engage with renowned scholars, cultural innovators, and industry cultural leaders through lectures, panels, and immersive global study experiences. The curriculum combines art business and finance, personal cultural leadership, critical perspectives in arts and culture, exhibitions, events and innovation, and art law, offering a deep understanding of how cultural value is created, sustained, and communicated in a rapidly evolving world.

Experiential learning is central to the Executive Master in Cultural Leadership. Through case studies, workshops, site visits, and field projects, students gain both theoretical grounding and hands-on experience. Participants also benefit from Maastricht University’s international network of cultural institutions, art fairs, museums, creative industries, foundations, and public organisations, ensuring privileged access to cultural institutions and decision-makers across Europe and beyond.

Upon graduation, participants join an exclusive network of cultural leaders, equipped with the strategic, ethical, and entrepreneurial tools to make a lasting impact on the arts and cultural sectors.

Programme Highlights:

• Tailored for mid-career professionals and emerging cultural leaders
• Blends academic excellence with executive-level practice
• Taught by leading scholars and cultural experts
• Includes immersive modules, case-based learning, and professional mentoring
• Based in Maastricht with international study components

Applications are open to those from the arts, creative sectors and beyond with prior work experience and an ambition for leadership roles.

Application Deadline: December 2025
Programme Start: March 2026