Who Can Apply
We are in our prototype season, so we only accept applicants who are physically in Oxford.
This is a part-time programme for students and early-career practitioners who want to design real civic change through culture and research.
We welcome applicants from all disciplines and backgrounds — yes, really, all.
Whether you study Physics, Politics, or Palaeontology, it doesn't matter.
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No curation, art, or design experience required.
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To apply, submit one short idea or proposal. It can be:
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A past essay, research topic, or creative project.
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A question or observation you want to explore.
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A reflection from your coursework, fieldwork, or journal.
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A single idea you believe deserves attention, however early or rough.
Expectations
Our programme is designed to be one of the most high-impact ways to grow your skills in a short time. It works best when everyone is committed.
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Here’s what we ask of you:
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Commit roughly 3-4 hours a week for 8-10 weeks.
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Show up with intention for workshops, team meetings, and events.
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Communicate openly, lead your part of the project, and document your work.
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Collaborate by supporting your teammates and valuing different perspectives.
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Reflect on your experience and add what you've learned to our shared archive.
What You’ll Learn
Our program is a hands-on lab for creative and professional skills you can apply anywhere. We combine creative design, research, and practical project management.
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You will learn how to:
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UX, design, and curate.
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Turn a big idea or research topic into a clear, civic, real-world project.
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Understand how people experience a service, space, or story, and design better ways to support them.
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Communicate complex ideas in clear, engaging, and public-facing forms.
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Design and facilitate workshops, co-creation sessions, and collaborative research.
In Ruturn, You'll Get
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Hands-on experience in curatorial design and interdisciplinary teamwork.
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Produce a public-facing project for your portfolio.
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Mentorship from researchers, designers, and creative professionals.
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A growing network of wider cultural and research communities.
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Alumni are invited back as advisors and collaborators in future cycles.​​
Funding and Support
Right now, Civic Curate Oxford is early-stage. Some fellow roles are voluntary while we build recurring partner income and sponsorship.
Civic Curate Oxford Contexts
We are transparent about each cohort’s funding situation before you join.
Where partners pay, fellows are budgeted into that work.