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Master of Arts
Master of Arts Program in Museum StudiesPrinter Friendly Printer Friendly

The Master of Arts degree requires completion of 32 points, of which at least 24 must be within the Program in Museum Studies. Students must complete five core courses. Three core courses provide an understanding of the historical and theoretical ground of current museum practice, both nationally and internationally (History and Theory of Museums, G49.1500); a focused introduction to the creation of exhibitions and the management of collections (Museum Collections and Exhibitions, G49.1501); and a comprehensive account of the administrative, strategic, and financial aspects of museum management (Museum Management, G49.1502). Students also enroll in the Museum Studies Research Seminar (G49.3991); write an M.A. thesis; and enroll in the Museum Studies Internship (G49.3990), a project-based, 300-hour internship in a museum or appropriate cultural institution. Students must successfully complete Internship (G49.3990) with a grade of B or better to receive the degree.

In addition to this broad grounding, students take four electives related to their particular interests: at least two courses in museum studies, and, if the student so chooses, one or two courses within a discipline connected to the sort of museum in which the student intends to work (history, anthropology, art history, etc.).

The M.A. program must be completed within five years of admission.

ADVANCED CERTIFICATE

Students in the 24-point advanced certificate program are responsible for completion of museum studies certificate requirements as well as the master’s or doctoral requirements of their degree-granting departments. A maximum of two courses or 8 points of the 24 points required to complete the certificate may be counted toward the M.A. or Ph.D. by participating departments.

The advanced certificate curriculum comprises five core courses and two electives. The core courses are History and Theory of Museums (G49.1500), Museum Collections and Exhibitions (G49.1501), Museum Management (G49.1502), Internship (G49.3990), and Research Seminar (G49.3991). Students must successfully complete Internship (G49.3990) with a grade of B or better to receive the certificate. Electives may be chosen either from the museum studies curriculum or from course offerings cross-listed from other departments.

The advanced certificate program must be completed within three years of admission. .

CONCENTRATIONS IN MUSEUM STUDIES IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER M.A. PROGRAMS

All concentrations in museum studies combine in-depth knowledge of a particular discipline with museum theory and professional training. They are designed for those who intend to pursue careers in museums and cultural organizations and those currently employed in the field who wish to acquire new skills and formal training. All concentrations offer individualized internship placement.

M. A. Degree in Africana Studies/ Concentration in Museum Studies

This program requires the completion of 36 points (16 in museum studies), a master’s essay, and a full summer internship in a museum or cultural institution. Those planning to work as museum professionals with collections in museums, historic houses and sites, and government agencies relating to black history and culture, literature, and politics are encouraged to apply.

For more information, contact the Program in Africana Studies, 212-998-2130, or the Program in Museum Studies, 212-998-8080.

M.A. Degree in Near Eastern Studies/Concentration in Museum Studies

This program requires the completion of 48 points (32 in Near Eastern studies and 16 in museum studies), a full summer internship in a museum or cultural institution, and a master’s essay combining topics in Near Eastern study and museology.

For more information, see the Hagop Kevorkian Center Program in Near Eastern Studies section of this bulletin or contact the Program in Near Eastern Studies, 212-998-8877, or the Program in Museum Studies, 212-998-8080.

M.A. Degree in Hebrew and Judaic Studies/Concentration in Museum Studies

This program requires the completion of 38 points and is aimed primarily at those who are or will be museum professionals in collections relating to Jewish history and civilization.

For more information, contact the Skirball Department of Hebrew and Judaic Studies, 212-998-8980, or the Program in Museum Studies, 212-998-8080.

M.A. Degree in Latin American and Caribbean Studies/Concentration in Museum Studies

This program requires the completion of 36 points (16 in museum studies), a master’s essay, and a full summer internship in a museum or cultural institution. Those planning careers in cultural affairs, art, government, and museums are encouraged to apply.

For more information, contact the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies, 212-998-8686, or the Program in Museum Studies, 212-998-8080.

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