Museum Studies, MA

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The program prepares students for positions of leadership in artistic, cultural, educational and heritage organizations and for long-term professional growth.

The curriculum consists of core seminars, hands-on practica, one-on-one advising and mentoring, electives tailored to students’ interests and a full-time summer internship in an institution of the student’s choice.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students will:

articulate a critical understanding of the histories, challenges and methodologies related to museums as complex public service organizations
analyze institutional practices in light of USF’s mission of social justice
apply skills and knowledge essential for successful professional patterns of behavior and practice in all types of museums and like organizations

Graduate Requirements (32 Units)

Core (24 Units)

Elective Practica (8 Units)

Substitutions:

Students may also elect to take 4-unit courses in specific areas of interest (including art and architectural history, history, international studies, environmental science, etc.) that are offered in both BA and MA programs in the College of Arts and Sciences for graduate credit, arrangements made with the instructor and Academic Director.

Internship Program

During the summer semester, students complete a 4-unit internship at the location of their choice, supervised by an internship coordinator who leads the accompanying mentoring, online discussion and assignments. Students spend 35 hours per week at their internship over a 12-week period.

Capstone Project

In the final semester, students study the principles and techniques of project management and complete a museum project management capstone course, supervised by faculty and culminating in a final paper and public presentation that synthesizes their learning experiences in the program.