BGC Campuses

The Bard Graduate Center Gallery and Research Space, situated just steps away from the main campus in New York City, serves as an extension of the institution’s commitment to the study and exhibition of decorative arts, design history, and material culture. This location primarily functions as a gallery space for curated exhibitions and a venue for academic events, workshops, and public programs. It complements the educational mission of the main campus by providing a hands-on environment for students to engage directly with objects and curatorial practices.

The key academic and research activities supported at this campus include:

• Exhibition Design and Curatorial Studies - Courses and workshops that teach students the principles of curating exhibitions, from concept development to installation, often tied to the gallery’s rotating displays.
• Material Culture Research Seminars - Focused study groups and seminars that analyze physical objects as primary sources, utilizing the gallery’s collections and exhibitions as case studies.
• Public Programming and Outreach - Educational initiatives that connect academic study with broader audiences through lectures, symposia, and guided tours, often integrated into student learning experiences.
• Interdisciplinary Design History Workshops - Sessions that explore the intersection of design, history, and culture, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical exhibition contexts.

This space enhances the Bard Graduate Center’s curriculum by offering a tangible link between classroom learning and real-world application. Students gain practical skills in exhibition planning, object interpretation, and public engagement, preparing them for careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. The gallery’s proximity to the main campus ensures seamless integration with the broader academic programs offered by the institution.

The Bard Graduate Center for Studies in the Decorative Arts, located in the heart of New York City, offers a unique academic environment dedicated to the study of decorative arts, design history, and material culture. This campus serves as the primary hub for graduate education, research, and exhibitions in these specialized fields. Students here engage in interdisciplinary studies that explore the cultural, historical, and social significance of objects and design across various periods and regions.

The main courses and programs offered at this campus include:

• Master of Arts in Decorative Arts, Design History, and Material Culture - A comprehensive program that combines theoretical study with hands-on research, focusing on the analysis of objects and their historical contexts.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Decorative Arts, Design History, and Material Culture - An advanced research degree for students pursuing in-depth scholarship and academic careers in the field.
• Master of Philosophy - A stepping stone for doctoral candidates, emphasizing rigorous academic training and research methodologies.
• Certificate Programs and Continuing Education - Specialized short-term courses for professionals and enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge in specific areas of decorative arts and design.

Students benefit from access to world-class resources, including the BGC Library, exhibition galleries, and proximity to major cultural institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Courses often integrate curatorial practice, conservation studies, and digital humanities, preparing graduates for careers in museums, academia, and the art world. The campus fosters a collaborative and intimate learning environment, encouraging critical thinking and innovative approaches to the study of material culture.