Museum Studies, Minor
Program Coordinator:
Douglas Kendall
Faculty:
Douglas Kendall; Quentin Lewis
Minor
Museum Studies
About
Hartwick offers undergraduate work in museum studies for students who are interested in museums as visitors, supporters, life-long learners, or are interested in developing a museum-related career. Coursework for this minor is enhanced by the use of the College’s Yager Museum of Art & Culture and its exhibitions and permanent collections. The program provides students with theoretical and practical courses and experiences that enable them to understand and value the role museums play in our society.
Students take museum studies courses in conjunction with a major or minor in an academic field most often associated with museums, such as anthropology, art, art history, English, education, global studies, history, business administration, or one of the sciences. Students may opt to design their own Individual Student Program. Students who are interested in museum work and need advice about possible combinations of a major field with museum studies are encouraged to consult the coordinator of the program.
Students who complete the minor will:
- Understand the ways museums are used as intellectual resources, preservers and presenters of the world’s cultures, and places of enjoyment and entertainment
- Have a broader understanding of cultural diversity and the ways that museums reflect positions of power
- Have an intellectual understanding of how museums provide diverse educational opportunities by offering many different modes of learning
Most museum studies courses will include the following:
- Contemporary museum theory and practice
- Practical experience including hands-on activities using the museums’ exhibitions, collections and programs
- Field trips
- Community service
- Attendance at the Yager Museum’s special events
To complete the program students, take a total of six courses that include three required courses, one required internship, and a choice of at least two practica at the Yager Museum or the Foreman Gallery. Because experience is highly valued in museum work, students are strongly encouraged to pursue additional opportunities such as a second internship or volunteer work in another museum. This minor prepares students to be: active supporters of museums; life-long learners who use museums; and graduate school attendees. In some cases, the museum studies minor provides opportunities for entry-level museum positions.