The museum studies program provides a broad foundation of knowledge increasingly valued in the museum field. Museum studies courses introduce students to the spectrum of museum endeavors, from organization and mission planning to institutional histories and current developments in the field.

Museum studies is interdisciplinary. Many University of Iowa programs, such as American studies, anthropology, art and art history, biology, business, communication studies, education, English, world languages, and history offer relevant courses.

The Museum Studies Program is administered by the Department of Anthropology.

Why Iowa?

The Museum Studies Program holds academic memberships with the American Association for State and Local History and the Iowa Museum Association. These connections offer museum studies students opportunities for internships, professional networking, and career development.

In addition to offering a wide range of on-campus courses, the certificate also can be earned online with a growing number of online courses.

Admission Requirements

This certificate program is open to students in all majors and can be used to complement your degree and expand your career options after graduation.

 

 Information

Certificate(s)
Museum Studies
Careers and Outcomes

Iowa graduates have a 95 percent job/grad school placement rate within six months of graduation. Our  Pomerantz Career Center  offers multiple resources to help students find internships and jobs. 

Through course work and internship experiences, the program prepares students for museum careers and graduate school. Most students interested in museum careers pursue graduate study after completing their bachelor’s degree.

Student Opportunities

In addition to more than 500  student organizations, Iowa students choose from more than 100  study abroad  programs and multiple  undergraduate research opportunities

Scholarships

The University of Iowa provides a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students through the Iowa Scholarship Portal. Scholarships are available to first-year, transfer, and currently enrolled students. For additional details on scholarships for your program of study, check directly with the department or college. 

The Office of Admissions and the Office of Student Financial Aid also are great resources for students seeking scholarships. 

Coursework

The Museum Studies Program introduces students to all aspects of museum work. Courses offer hands-on experience in exhibition planning and design, collection management, educational programming, community development, and administration.

To learn about required course work for this certificate, see Museum Studies in the General Catalog .