Museum Studies Graduate Certificate

The museum field continues to expand because of the ongoing process of collecting, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting historically significant items. The Museum Studies Certificate adds value to a variety of degree programs in multiple disciplines by providing a foundation for students interested in working in museums, in educational and interpretive centers, or in similar organizations promoting public outreach and education.

The program emphasizes the visitor experience throughout all aspects of museum decision-making and planning processes. Students in the program will learn about the inner operations of nonprofit, arts and cultural heritage organizations; have an opportunity to work directly with objects and artifacts; become immersed in current museum methods and cultural heritage literature; and learn about networking and resume-building opportunities. This certificate is typically completed in two semesters.

Admission Requirements

Application materials should be emailed to Sandra Harris, harriss3@ohio.edu. Acceptance will be determined by the program director.

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree or equivalent
• Resume/CV
• Letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the major discipline of the student should address the following:
  1. The applicant’s demonstrated ability to complete assignments in a timely fashion.
  2. The applicant’s experience doing project work as a member of a team.
  3. The applicant’s ability to work independently following instructions.
  4. The student’s expressed interest in museum studies.
• Application essay (250-500 words total) stating how the Museum Studies Certificate meets the academic and professional goals of the student, answering the following questions:
  1. The applicant’s demonstrated ability to complete assignments in a timely fashion.
  2. The applicant’s experience doing project work as a member of a team.
  3. The applicant’s ability to work independently following instructions.
  4. The student’s expressed interest in museum studies.
• English Proficiency Requirement: Please review information about Ohio University's minimum English Language Proficiency requirements for graduate study.

Download Application [PDF]

Contact Us

To apply and for more information, contact Sandra Harris, Executive Director of the Kennedy Museum of Art at harriss3@ohio.edu.