Museum Studies (CERT)

Summary

The aim of this program is to provide a perspective on the theory and practice of museums in an expanding global environment of technological, social and political change for current and future museum professionals. It emphasizes the role of technology as a pervasive aspect in today's museum, examines new models of education, exhibition, and business strategies, and explores the role of the museum as an agent of social change. We welcome students interested in all types of museums including history, technology, science, art, special topic or themed museums, historic sites, national parks and zoos and those interested in exhibitions for corporations, government agencies and private organizations. 

The certificate may not be eligible for federal financial aid. Speak with the Campus Hub for details. 

Catalog Year

2023-2024

Degree

Certificate

Major Credits

15

Total Credits

15

Locations

Mankato

Program Requirements

Major Common Core

This course analyzes relationships between art and politics from ancient times through today, exploring uses of art from persuasion to overt propaganda in visual arts and architecture. It will deal with diverse cultures, covering material from a global perspective.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-06, GE-08

Introduces history of museums and philosophical nature of museums, covering types and definitions of museums, discusses contemporary practice in museums, and examines current issues in the profession as we face the future of museums in the twenty-first century.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-05, GE-08

Designed as an introduction to the nonprofit sector, this course provides the foundation for students working toward a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership. This workshop addresses the historical and philosophical foundations in nonprofit leadership as well as exploring key leadership issues.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-09

Major Restricted Electives

Choose 6 credits

Introduces students to museum science and how historic constructs, practices, and contemporary issues of the museum as an institution relates to the representation of American Indians. Focus will be on translating western practices to a Indigenous aesthetic.

Prerequisites: none

Diverse Cultures: Gold

A review of the history and philosophy of museums, the legal and ethical issues impacting museums, the nature and treatment of collections, creation, exhibition and exhibit design, the role of museums in education, museum personnel and financial management, and museums in the technological/electronic age.

Prerequisites: none

Review of how cultural resources are being preserved and managed under current laws and regulations. Emphasis on examination of conservation, preservation and rescue methods in modern archaeology, and problems and issues in historic preservation and resource management.

Prerequisites: ANTH 101, ANTH 210 or consent

Theoretical and practical aspects of administering arts organizations. Examines the management, budgeting, marketing and administration of arts programs and organizations in the postmodern era.

Prerequisites: none

The study of art museum history, theory and practice, including ethics, collecting, and display. Alongside these studies, students will conceive and realize an exhibition in order to further develop knowledge of and experience in the field.

Prerequisites: ART 260, ART 261

Arranged internship allows students to have a hands on experience applying theories and methodology from course work in the field to area of interest. Requires coordination with a faculty member.

Prerequisites: none

This course allows pursuit of individual avenues of study that may not be offered in the curriculum and for advanced level pursuit of special projects of research on an independent basis. Requires coordination with a faculty member.

Prerequisites: none

Designed as the sequel to NPL 273, this course addresses managing operations, developing and managing financial services, and managing people. This course will include a service-learning component. Prerequisite: NPL 273, or by special permission.

Prerequisites: NPL 273

Aesthetic principles, theories, and the creative process. Theories of visual arts, music, literature, dance, etc.

Prerequisites: none

This course introduces students to the concepts, principles, and the design involved in the event planning strategy; special event management; stakeholder development; budgets and finance; site selection; contracts, vendors, and marketing and promotions.

Prerequisites: RPLS 272, RPLS 373, or with instructor permission. Upper division prerequisites can be taken concurrently with instructor permission.

Raising resources for public and nonprofit organizations--from needs assessment through obtaining funding to managing the grant after it is awarded.

Prerequisites: none