Collections/Field Track Requirements

This track is for those interested in collections management, field and collections research, and curatorial work. It is designed to give students academic training in all aspects of museology and their chosen discipline with special emphasis on how to collect, catalogue, and care for museum collections. This track may include field projects related to the student's chosen specialization.

Course Requirements

Thesis Plan Requirements

5011: Intro to Museums (4)
5051: Collections Management (3)
6110: Advanced Seminar (3)
Subtotal MFS Requirements: 10

At least one of the following:
5041: Museum Administration (3)
5031: Exhibit Development (3)
5030: Museum Education (3)
Subtotal Required: 3

Plus:
5000+: Cognate hours** (12)
6950: Thesis (4-6)
Seminar, Independent Study, Practicum (1-3)
Subtotal Required: 19

Total required hours: 32
Plus 150 hours of internship

Project Plan Requirements

5011: Intro to Museums (4)
5051: Collections Management (3)
6110: Advanced Seminar (3)
Subtotal MFS Requirements: 10

At least one of the following:
5041: Museum Administration (3)
5031: Exhibit Development (3)
5030: Museum Education (3)
Subtotal Required: 3

Plus:
5000+: Cognate hours** (15)
6960: Project (4)
Subtotal Required: 19

Total required hours: 32
Plus 150 hours of internship

**Cognate (or specialty) hours may include 5000+ level courses, practicum work, field methods courses, and up to six hours of 3000 or 4000 level classes, if appropriate. Cognate hours may be taken in more than one department or school. Some Museum courses may count as cognate hours with advisor approval.

Committee

A committee of at least three graduate faculty will be selected during the first semester in residence, by consultation between the student, the student's advisor, and the director of the MFS program. At least one member of the committee must be a tenured or tenure-track member of the Museum faculty. The committee will serve as program advisors for the comprehensive exam and as the defense committee for the thesis or project. A student and advisor may apply for an exception in writing, which must be approved by the MFS program director.

Collections/Field Track Requirements