Museum Directors and Curators

High School

Museum directors and curators need diverse educational backgrounds to perform well in their jobs. At the high school level, you should take courses in English, literature, creative writing, history, art, the sciences, speech, business, and foreign language. These courses will give you the general background knowledge needed to understand both the educational and administrative functions of museums. Math and computer skills are also essential. Museum directors and curators are responsible for preparing budgets and seeking funds from corporations and federal agencies.

Postsecondary Training

Museum directors and curators must have at least a bachelor's degree. Some colleges and universities offer undergraduate degrees in museum studies (known as museology). Most museums require their directorial staff and chief curators to have at least a master's degree, but preferably a doctorate (especially at large museums). Directors and curators usually work in museums that specialize in art, history, or science. These individuals often have degrees in fields related to the museum's specialty. Others may have degrees in museology. Directors often have advanced degrees in business management, public relations, or marketing. All curators must have a good working knowledge of the art, objects, and cultures represented in their collections.

Certification

Some colleges and universities—such as the Tufts University and Ohio University—offer certificate programs in museum studies, curatorial studies, and museum administration. Certificate programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) offers a Directory of Museum Studies and Related Programs (including certificate programs) at http://ww2.aam-us.org/resources/careers/museum-studies-programs.

Other Education or Training

The AAM offers continuing education opportunities via webinars and educational sessions at its Annual Meeting & MuseumExpo. Past sessions included Required Elements of an Institutional Plan, Step-by-Step Collections Acquisition, Fundraising in Challenging Economic Times, Strategic Thinking and Planning, Museum Business Planning: Balancing Mission and Market, Project Management Basics, and Interpretive Planning Basics: Planning for Visitor Experiences. Contact the AAM for more information.