Museum Studies Graduate Minor
- Contact Information
- College of Arts and Science
- 109 Pickard Hall
- 573-882-6711
- Museum Studies Web Site
Admission
All students who undertake the museum studies minor are normally already enrolled as graduate students in degree-granting academic departments. Students should apply for admission at the beginning of the fall semester. Application is made to the director of graduate studies of the department of Art History and Archaeology.
The structure of this program is being reevaluated.
About the Minor
This minor, offered by the Department of Art History and Archaeology, with the participation of the Museum of Art and Archaeology, provides students with a systematic introduction to the history, philosophy and purpose of museums.
The program blends academic theory with practical experience to provide students with an opportunity to build a foundation applicable for work in either university or public museums.
Curriculum
The minor is taken in addition to the courses for the MA degree. It is designed to introduce students to the history and role of museums in society; to the philosophical, legal and administrative issues that face the modern museum; and to the exhibition and preservation skills required of a museum curator.
The emphasis of the program is on museum management, curatorial responsibilities (collection management and exhibition) and educational interpretation. Internships and field trips to local museums provide additional insight into the world of museum professionals. Individual courses are listed under Art History and Archaeology.
Plan of Study
Successful completion of the program is accomplished through 12 credit hours of required course work, including AHA 7130 (Museum Studies), 8130 (Museum Studies Seminar) and 7980 (a three-credit-hour internship), and is recognized when students successfully complete a graduate degree program in their academic field of study.
An individual’s course of study for the minor will be arranged with the program director.
Length of Study
The minimum period required to complete the minor is four semesters, or three semesters and one summer.