HI 276: Museum Studies

Why do we have museums? What do museums do? Are museums relevant or necessary in a digital world? This course will engage students with a foundation in the museum field, exploring the role of museums in society today by exploring their past and contemplating their future. Students will discover the behind-the-scenes of museums, gaining insight into current practices and debates from class discussions, visiting experts, hands-on class activities, and site visits. Students will gain an understanding of the range of skills and expertise needed in this varied career field by investigating the history and philosophy of museums; the social, economic, and political context that shapes museums; and the main operating functions of museums - collection and care of objects, exhibits, interpretation, education, and governance.