Museum Studies Minor

Department of Art and Art History, College of Fine and Performing Arts

20-26 credits

Introduction

The Museum Studies minor provides the needed academic and practical understructure for a career in museums and galleries. The Minor is designed as an add-on to other programs of study, and it is focused on the intersections of art with the public sphere in practical and theoretical terms, with a commitment to explore the social and cultural dimensions of museums. As such, it seeks to build upon student’s knowledge and provide (a) courses on museum history and theory, (b) courses in museum education, public programs, and curatorial practices, and (c) practical hands-on experience.

Why Consider a Museum Studies Minor?

The Museum Studies Minor is designed for those interested in a museum or gallery career. The minor adds a practical and theoretical edge to your degree, with advanced courses on museum history, curatorial studies, museum education and public programs, and contemporary museum practices. The minor will build on your academic interests while showing future employers and graduate schools that you have undergone the core applied training and conceptual coursework to become a museum professional. In addition, you will gain valuable hands-on preparator experience working in the galleries on campus and organizing student, local, regional, and national artist exhibitions. Though grounded in art and art history, the minor is designed to be of use not only if you are an art student, but also if you are interested in a museum career in other disciplinary areas, such as in history, science, or children’s museums.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

In order to apply, students must fulfill the following four requirements:

• Be a sophomore.
• Have completed one 200-level art history course.
• Submit an application outlining their reasons for completing a Museum Studies Minor and their career goals.
• Have a 2.5 minimum GPA.

Applications can be found at cfpa.wwu.edu/art/admissions. 

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.