Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Curator is a professional responsible for the acquisition, care, and display of items in a museum, gallery, or cultural institution. They play a key role in interpreting and presenting collections to the public, often specializing in a specific area such as art, history, or science.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 11.1% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 1,800
Direct AI exposure: 26% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 78% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $63K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $40K per year | $49K per year | $63K per year | $83K per year | $107K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $12K above the national average. | ||||
Curators typically work in museums, art galleries, historical sites, and cultural institutions. Their environment involves a combination of office work, research, and hands-on work with collections. The role may also include travel for research, acquisitions, or collaboration with other institutions.
Curators are the stewards of cultural and educational institutions' collections. They blend academic expertise with a passion for sharing knowledge with the public. Their work involves not only the care and management of collections but also the interpretation of objects and artifacts to create meaningful experiences for visitors. This requires staying current with research in their field, understanding the historical and cultural significance of items, and often collaborating with other professionals like conservators, educators, and researchers.
In addition to their curatorial duties, many curators are involved in administrative tasks, including budgeting, fundraising, and managing staff. They play a crucial role in shaping the institution's direction and ensuring its financial viability. Curators may also engage in public outreach, giving talks, leading tours, and participating in community events to promote their institution.
The role of a curator requires a unique combination of scholarly expertise, creativity, and administrative skill. It is a profession that offers the opportunity to work closely with unique and often priceless items, contributing significantly to the preservation of cultural heritage and the dissemination of knowledge.
Most curator positions require at least a master's degree in a related field such as art history, museum studies, or archaeology, which typically involves 6-7 years of post-secondary education. Some roles, especially in larger or specialized institutions, may require a Ph.D.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
