Overview

The museum studies minor explores the history, theory, and management of museums and their collections. Students learn to think critically about how museums and their collections have defined history, culture, and art while gaining practical skills in management, educational programming, and grant writing.

Fast Facts
  • Interdisciplinary program incorporates the arts, humanities, business, social sciences, and sciences
  • Internship opportunities in museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions
  • Internationally recognized faculty from several disciplines
Three students at the entrance of a museum.

 

 

    What You'll Study

    Art, history, and culture meets business and science


    Faculty

    Expert faculty from a myriad of disciplines

    Across the disciplines, including art and art history, biology, business administration, classical studies, history, religion, and sociology and anthropology, faculty have come together to teach courses in this interdisciplinary program.

    Lauren Turek
    Lauren Turek, Ph.D.
    Program Director
    Associate Professor, History
    " "
    Douglas Brine, Ph.D.
    Associate Professor, Art and Art History
    " "
    Colleen Hoelscher, MA, MLS
    Associate Professor / Special Collections Librarian
    Erin Kramer
    Erin Kramer, Ph.D.
    Assistant Professor, History
    Jennifer P. Mathews
    Jennifer P. Mathews, Ph.D.
    Professor, Sociology and Anthropology
    " "
    Kathryn O'Rourke, Ph.D.
    Professor, Art and Art History
    David Ribble
    David Ribble, Ph.D.
    Dean: D. R. Semmes School of Science, Professor, Biology
    Robert F. Scherer
    Bob F. Scherer, Ph.D.
    Dean: Neidorff School of Business, Michael Neidorff School of Business

    Student Opportunities

    Hands-on learning through museum visits, internships, and the opportunity to curate your own digital exhibit.

     

    Experiential Learning

    Engage in hands-on learning through museum visits, internships, and even opportunities to curate your own exhibit.

    Spaces and Facilities

    Visit local museums, historical sites, galleries, special collections, and archives locally, regionally, and beyond.

    Lecture Series and Annual Events

    Courses bring the community into the classroom with invited speakers and presentations.


    When You Graduate

    Craft a career as an Artist, Scientist, or Museum Curator

    Students can pursue graduate school in museum studies, or combine the minor with their primary major. Faculty support students in exploring their options while the hands-on curriculum offers exposure to working professionals in a variety of settings.

     

    Careers

    Museums studies is highly interdisciplinary, allowing students to take their career in many directions. Those who are interested in making museum studies their primary focus can find positions in various aspects of museum work, including curation, collections management, museum development and administration, special programs, and more.

    Career Areas:

    • Collections Specialist
    • Educator
    • Gallery Management
    • Museum Administration
    • Museum Curation

     

     

     


    Take the next step

    Have more questions or want more information? Learn more about becoming a Tiger, and how you can accelerate what’s next for your education.