Location:

Philadelphia, United States

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Museum Studies

Program Overview

Program Description:

The MA in Museum Communication is a course of study in the contemporary theory and practice of museum work. Students in the Museum Communication program investigate the theory, principles, and practice of institutional management, development and fundraising, marketing and public relations, visitor studies and evaluation, visitor services and volunteerism, and policy research and advocacy. Ideal for people wishing to enter a managerial and administrative track in the museum field, current museum professionals interested in career advancement, those seeking to change careers, or museum volunteers seeking professional credentials, the Museum Communication program provides the opportunity to acquire theoretical and practical competencies for connecting the public missions of museums with the audiences, constituents, donors, and policy makers they seek to reach. Graduates work in museums of anthropology, archaeology, fine art, history, natural history, science centers, zoos, arboretums, and national parks. Others find employment in government agencies, historical societies, historic sites and houses, and with private and corporate collections and foundations. Museum Communication is a three-semester, 45-credit program that awards a Master of Arts degree. Coursework includes lectures, seminars, workshops and visits to museums, historic sites, galleries and government cultural agencies, as well as a six-week (120-hour) internship. A written thesis and thesis defense are program and degree requirements.

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

The University of the Arts is authorized by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to grant degrees in the visual, performing and related arts, and is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (Commission on Higher Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104; telephone: 276-284-5000). The College of Art and Design is also an accredited institutional member of the National Association of the Schools of Art and Design, and the Industrial Designers' Society of America. The School of Music is also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Financial Aid:

Yes

Requirements:

A completed graduate application form, plus $60 application fee; official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools attended; three letters of recommendation; a one- to two-page statement of professional plans and goals; GRE scores recommended but not required; a personal interview with the program director or chairperson; writing sample and examples of professional work. All digital images, time-based media and writing samples should be submitted for review online.

International Requirements:

Applicants must obtain a minimum TOEFL score of 92 (IBT) or 580 (PBT), a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, or complete Level 9 in the University’s ESL Institute. Students who do not meet score minimums may be required to successfully complete an English Language Program prior to matriculation. All applicants with post secondary or university transcripts from outside the United States are required to submit an official evaluation for each transcript. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) mandates that all foreign students applying for (or transferring their current) F-1 student visa sponsorship show sufficient funding for at least one year of study. A Certification of Finances form will be sent to you upon receipt of your application. The Certification of Finances is not required to make an offer of admission however, the I-20 form cannot be issued without a valid Certification of Finances.