Museum Studies

Fisher’s museum studies certificate program provides a broad academic approach to the study of museum operations and the museum experience.

Upon completion of this certificate program, you will be proficient with the research methods and current practices used in museums and similar institutions. These skills include setting up exhibits, operating and maintaining historical sites, and documenting historic collections and artifacts.

This program may be right for you if you:

• Wish to enhance your studies in a related field such as American studies, anthropology, history, arts, or education
• Are involved with museum work (but not currently matriculated) and wish to broaden your academic training
• Plan to pursue graduate work in museum studies or immediate work in the field

Note: Museum studies is a certificate program, not a minor. However, coursework for the certificate may be used toward your declared major or minor, or the Core Curriculum requirements.

Program Overview

Throughout the program, you will learn to appreciate and address the challenges of selecting, maintaining, and interpreting material culture, with a special focus on utilizing archaeological collections (artifacts).

You will explore all aspects of museum work, including collections care, curation, exhibit preparation/installation, museum education, volunteer coordination, fundraising, and public programming.

The significant work/internship experience that is part of the program’s requirements gives you practical exposure to running a museum, overseeing an archive, or working at a historic site.