Museum Studies, BA

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Students in the Museum Studies program study the collection, preservation, archiving, and exhibition of historic objects, documents, and specimens from material culture, considering not only how museums and historic sites generate knowledge but also how they might partner with diverse communities in the future to enrich our understanding of what it means to be human and how we occupy the world, and thus foster inclusivity and equity.

A major in Museum Studies helps students gain an informed understanding of institutional histories and contexts, critical and theoretical approaches and ethical considerations. In addition by incorporating hands-on, active, and collaborative learning and internship-based experiences, the program is oriented toward professional development and practice. Finally the capstone experience is designed to provide students with the agency to determine what role they wish to play in their professional future. Students I the program develop an annual exhibition, receive close mentoring from faculty and peer cohorts, participate in collaborative research, and have the opportunity to either design their own extensive independent project or engage in a substantive project with a local museum, collection, archive, or historic site.

The Museum Studies major is ideal for students who wish to pursue careers in museums or other cultural institutions, libraries, historic sites, state and federal heritage sites, non-profit organizations, or community-based programs. A minor option is also available and requires 15 to 16 credits of coursework for completion.

The Museum Studies major requires the completion of 30 credits, distributed as follows.