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Master’s Degrees

In each of the Institute’s Master’s programmes, students explore art from a range of social, cultural, economic, and object-based perspectives, while gaining a deep understanding of how international art markets operate. All MA programmes include travel to major fairs, exhibitions, museums and collections, where students can engage with artworks firsthand.

The online application system allows candidates to submit scanned copies of all required documents, with the exception of recommendations. If necessary, transcripts, recommendations and other relevant documents may be submitted separately from the application.

Applications may only be submitted for admission to one program. If interested in applying to both campuses, students must apply separately using a unique email address.

The following credentials are required for all applicants:

  • Academic transcripts/mark sheets from all post-secondary academic institutions attended.
  • A writing sample. Applicants must submit a graded paper of no fewer than 1,000 words from an art history or art-related course OR
  • MA Contemporary Art and MA Fine and Decorative Art and Design applicants a gallery/museum/exhibition review written as if it were to be published in an art publication or website (1,000 words minimum).
  • MA Luxury Business applicants an essay about an aspect of luxury/the luxury industry. A suggested title is “what is the trend that in your opinion will define the luxury industry in the coming years?" (1,000 words minimum).
  • MA Art Business applicants a critical review of the last 12 months’ significant events in the art market, using and quoting from any available online sources (1,000 words minimum).
  • Personal Statement (1,000 words or less addressing your interest in studying at Sotheby’s Institute of Art and your career goals)
  • Two letters of academic reference.
  • A CV/resume.
  • English language proficiency exam. All applicants whose native language is not English and who have not completed an undergraduate degree in an English speaking curriculum, must submit results of the TOEFL or IELTS exam and must achieve an appropriate score. If you believe you may be eligible for an English language exam waiver, please select the appropriate option on the application.

All applicants will be required to submit a non-refundable application fee of £75 (GBP) for the London campus and $100 (USD) for New York campus in order for your application to be sent to the Institute for processing and review.

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Short Courses

Short Courses in New York, London, and select global locations are open to participants 18 years of age and older. Courses are offered in English and we recommend students have a conversational understanding of the language to best participate. All participants are required to complete the online registration form.

Registration typically takes around 5 minutes to complete. Registrants will be asked to make their course selection, provide basic personal information, and submit payment. Payments plans are available for courses that are more than 2 weeks out from the start date.

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Online Courses

Online Courses are open to participants 18 years of age and older. Courses are offered in English and we recommend students have a conversational understanding of the language to best participate. All participants are required to complete the online registration form.

Registration typically takes around 5 minutes to complete. Registrants will be asked to make their course selection, provide basic personal information, and submit payment. Payments plans are available for courses that are more than 2 weeks out from the start date.

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SIA Pre-College Program 

Sotheby’s Summer Institute invites high schoolers who are curious and passionate about the arts to immerse themselves in one of the most vibrant art capitals in the world: New York City. From learning the intricacies of running galleries and museums to exploring painting and drawing techniques throughout history, these two-week courses are designed to engage, inspire, and fuel creativity. Taught by leading scholars and professionals in the field, each course draws on the global expertise of Sotheby's Institute of Art and takes students behind the scenes of world class museums, galleries, auction houses, artists’ studios, and more.

Programs are open to incoming high school students (grades 9-12). All new students are required to complete an online application. More information about the application process is available at here.

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Study Abroad in London

All applicants must be at least 18 years old by the program start date and currently enrolled as undergraduates. The program is suitable for students studying a range of subjects across the humanities, arts, and business.

We are partnering with a select number of colleges and universities for this program. If you are attending one of our partner schools, please contact your home institution’s study abroad office for more information and details regarding how to apply.

If you are not currently attending one of our partner institutions, please contact your home institution’s study abroad office to discuss how credits may apply to your transcript or reach out to our admissions team at studyabroad@sia.edu for guidance.

All prospective students are required to complete an online application by contacting studyabroad@sia.edu for the application link. On the application, you will be asked to provide the following:

1. Fill out basic personal and student information
2. Complete a written statement regarding your interest in attending the program
3. If you are not attending one of our partner schools, you will be asked to upload your most recent undergraduate transcript

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