Museum and Heritage Studies

This course examines how the history and memory of World War II has been preserved and presented to the public since 1945. Emphasis will be placed on developments within the United States, Germany, Great Britain, France, Poland, Israel, and Japan. Credit hours: 4. Prerequisite: junior standing or permission of the instructor (or as indicated for each topic). Credit hours: 4. Prerequisite: junior standing or permission of the instructor (or as indicated for each topic).
This course focuses on the educational role of the museum. Students will put learning theories into practice by developing interpretive tools and activities. Topics include educational theory, audience characteristics, visitor studies, exhibition interpretation, object-based teaching, marketing, community and school partnerships, and digital technologies. The Maier Museum of Art and the Natural History and Archaeology Collections will be utilized. Fieldtrips included. Credit hours: 4. Prerequisite: ARTH 2261.

This course provides a foundational introduction to the management of nonprofit arts and cultural organizations. Students will explore the structures, strategies, and challenges unique to the nonprofit sector, with an emphasis on organizations that create, present, and support the arts. Topics include governance, mission-driven planning, fundraising and development, marketing and audience engagement, financial management, and program delivery. The course examines how cultural nonprofits sustain themselves, serve communities, and navigate changing social and economic environments. Designed for students across disciplines, the class emphasizes applied learning through case studies, guest speakers, and practical assignments relevant to careers in the arts and humanities. Credit hours 4.

The senior seminar for this interdisciplinary major allows students to gain an understanding of contemporary issues in heritage studies, especially those relevant to the fields of archaeology, art and architectural history, history, and natural history. Through coursework and/or the capstone project itself, students will further their curatorial skills and deepen their understanding of the role of museums in society or explore topics such as historic preservation. Credit hours: 4. Prerequisite: MUHS 3301 and senior standing.
This course focuses on information management and care of objects under a museum’s purview. Topics include acquisitions, cataloging and documentation using physical and electronic systems, storage and access, proper handling of objects, preventative conservation, and security measures. Students will be engaged in practical, hands-on training utilizing campus and local collections. Credit hours: 2. Prerequisite: ARTH 2261.