Museum Studies (MS)
MS 101 TH1:TH3:Intro to MuseumStudies 3 sem. hrs.
The course provides an introduction to the history, purpose, and mission of museums. Students examine the relationship of the object to the visitor to create the museum experience. The course presents the basics of administration, leadership, collections care, curatorial work, education, and marketing. Offered every fall I.
MS 201 Public History Practicum 3 sem. hrs.
Students participate in a hands-on learning experience at either the Hoover Historical Center (History track students) or the Birk Center for the Arts (Arts track students). Students learn the basics of objects care, cataloguing, exhibition design, tour techniques, daily operations, public relations, and special events coordination. Offered every fall II and spring I.
Prerequisite: MS 101.
MS 225 Intro to Archives/Records Mgt 3 sem. hrs.
Introduction to the theory and practice of preserving and cataloguing archival materials and artifacts. Students receive both classroom and hands-on instruction. Offered on a 3 year rotation in Spring II.
MS 301 Museum Studies Internship I 3 sem. hrs.
Students are placed as an intern at an area art, history, or science museum; library; or other non-profit organization that manages cultural material. Prerequisites: MS 101, junior standing, and MS 201 with a grade of B- or higher
MS 302 Museum Studies InternshipII 3 sem. hrs.
Continuation of MS 301 internship. Prerequisites: MS 301, Junior standing, and MS 201 with a grade of B- or higher
MS 320 Museums of Rome (In Rome) 3 sem. hrs.
This course approaches the history, culture, and arts of Rome through site visits to museums, churches, public spaces and monuments, and archaeological parks. Prerequisites: Permission of the Director of Museum Studies
MS 325 Exhibition Design 3 sem. hrs.
Focuses on designing and installing exhibitions in the Birk Center for the Arts. Offered every spring II.
Prerequisite: MS 101.
MS 330 Museum Education 3 sem. hrs.
This course examines the theory and practice of bridging museum collections with visitors through effective interpretation and programming. Topics include docent training, accessibility, programming for schools and teachers, in-gallery experiences, web-based educational resources, and off-site outreach programs. Offered on a 3 year rotation in Spring II.
Prerequisite: MS 101.
MS 390 Museum Admin & Leadership 3 sem. hrs.
This course approaches museum management in a holistic manner with a focus on leadership. The various roles of museum administrators, and the skills needed for success in these roles, are highlighted. Topics include management of fiscal resources; care of facilities, historic structures, and grounds; personnel and human resources; public relations within both the museum community and the community at-large; and relationships with boards and trustees. Offered on a 3 year rotation in Spring II.
Prerequisite: MS 101.
MS 401 Seminar in Museology 3 sem. hrs.
Provides in-depth focus on the history and theory of museum practice, as well as contemporary issues in the museum profession, including professional issues and the public role and responsibilities associated with ethical and responsible museum management. Offered every fall semester.
Prerequisites: Senior standing and MS 101.
MS 402 SL:DM: Senior Capstone Project 3 sem. hrs.
Combines elements from internship with knowledge from 401 to create a professional project that contributes to the operations of selected area museum by applying theoretical knowledge to a practical problem. Offered every spring semester.
Prerequisites: Senior standing and completion of all other MS courses.
MS 415 Senior Internship 1-6 sem. hrs.
Provides students additional opportunities for internships. Prerequisites: Permission of the Director of Museum Studies