Program Description

Beginning in the Fall semester 2008, the Portfolio in Museum Studies will allow students already enrolled in graduate programs across the university to develop a concentration concerning some aspect of the practices and cultural significance of museums. Like other portfolio programs, this non–degree program offers opportunities for obtaining further expertise in a cross–disciplinary manner.

The specific goals of this program are:

  1. To develop an understanding of how museums and their collections shape societies
  2. To develop an awareness of past practices of museums in order to foster an understanding of current and future developments
  3. To develop practical and analytical skills relevant to understanding the increasingly complex roles of museums and those who work in them

Through a set of thematically related graduate courses, this portfolio program is meant to promote cross-disciplinary scholarship and study by bringing together faculty and students from a variety of disciplines whose interests and training transcend the boundaries of traditional academic disciplines.

First review of applications will be completed by August 15, 2008. Prospective students already enrolled in a graduate program should submit applications for this review by June 30, 2008. All applicants are encouraged to carefully read Graduate School discussions.