Museum Studies, Certificate

Program Overview

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The Museum Studies Certificate program at Minnesota State University, Mankato provides a comprehensive understanding of museum theory and practice in a rapidly evolving global environment. It equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills for careers in various museum settings, including history, art, science, and technology. The program consists of 15 credit hours, including core courses and restricted electives, and is taught by experienced faculty using a variety of teaching methods.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Museum Studies Certificate program at Minnesota State University, Mankato aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practice of museums in a rapidly evolving global environment characterized by technological advancements, social transformations, and political shifts. The program is designed to equip current and aspiring museum professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern museum landscape.

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Objective:

• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history, philosophy, and ethical considerations surrounding museums.
• To explore the role of museums as agents of social change and their impact on communities.
• To develop students' critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving abilities within the museum context.
• To prepare students for successful careers in various museum settings, including history, technology, science, art, special topic or themed museums, historic sites, national parks, zoos, and exhibitions for corporations, government agencies, and private organizations.

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Outline:

The Museum Studies Certificate program consists of a total of 15 credit hours, including:

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Major Common Core (7 credit hours)

• ART 265W: Art As Politics (3 credits)
• MUSE 200W: Introduction to Museum Studies (4 credits)
• NPL 273: Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector (3 credits)

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Major Restricted Electives (6 credit hours)

Students can choose two courses from the following list:

• AIS 455: Museum Science and Representation (3 credits)
• ANTH 414: Museology (3 credits)
• ANTH 415: Cultural Resource Management (3 credits)
• ART 434: Arts Administration (3 credits)
• ART 464: Art Museum and Exhibition Studies (3 credits)
• MUSE 497: Internship (1-6 credits)
• MUSE 499: Individual Study (1-6 credits)
• NPL 473: Advanced Workshop in Nonprofit Leadership (3 credits)
• PHIL 460: Philosophy of the Arts (3 credits)
• RPLS 465: Event Planning and Design (3 credits)
• URBS 453: Grants Administration (3 credits)

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Assessment:

The assessment methods and criteria used in the Museum Studies Certificate program may vary depending on the specific courses taken. However, some common assessment methods include:

• Exams:
Written or oral exams may be used to assess students' knowledge and understanding of course material.
• Essays:
Essays may be assigned to evaluate students' critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.
• Presentations:
Students may be required to give presentations to demonstrate their research findings or to share their perspectives on museum-related topics.
• Projects:
Projects may be assigned to assess students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills to practical museum-related tasks.
• Participation:
Active participation in class discussions and activities may be factored into the assessment process.

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Teaching:

The Museum Studies Certificate program is taught by experienced faculty members who are actively involved in the museum field. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures:
Lectures are used to provide students with a foundation in the history, theory, and practice of museums.
• Discussions:
Class discussions are used to encourage students to engage with the course material and to share their perspectives.
• Guest speakers:
Guest speakers from the museum field are often invited to share their expertise and experiences with students.
• Field trips:
Field trips to local museums and cultural institutions are organized to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities.
• Independent study:
Independent study projects allow students to pursue their own research interests under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

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Careers:

The Museum Studies Certificate program prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities in the museum field, including:

• Museum curator
• Museum educator
• Museum administrator
• Museum conservator
• Museum exhibit designer
• Museum researcher
• Museum marketing and communications specialist
• Museum fundraiser
• Museum outreach coordinator
• Museum archivist