MA in Museum Studies and MA/PhD in Art History (candidates, students, graduates)
If I want to be competitive for a certain positions in a museum which require academic credentials, should I seek a MA/PhD in Art History to complement a MA in Museum Studies (which I already have)? If so, should I seek a MA or a PhD?I am investigating all my options to advance my career in museums, and I could go in several directions, especially
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No, I am not clear on what I want to do. You are correct. I do not have a focus. I am interested in several subjects, unfortunately. That's what makes it difficult for me to write statement like, "I want to research [X] at [University] because I am particularly interested in [University's research of X] and I believe [blah, blah, blah]". That said, I know I prefer the studies of decorative arts, over other things, e.g. WWI paintings, and museum work e.g. fundraising. In other words, I like a lot of things, when it comes to studying in academia, but I like some things more. I should focus on what I like "more".
I also think I have a mind towards "museum management" and "development (fundraising)" because when I look at the museum job market, I see more opportunities for directors and museum development. I know the economy is encouraging some for matriculation into graduate school, but for me, I look at graduate school limiting my opportunities to find work, any work in my field. (The museum job market is ridiculously competitive. Being open is helpful.) Limits in regards to the job market can, also, be a good thing. There might not be many applicants for a top curatorial post in "American Arts", where there are lot for, say, a "development assistant".
A quick note on archivists -- many indeed hold history backgrounds, and also attract those with library science backgrounds. Sometimes, people hold a history degree and a library science degree. Silly what we will do in the humanities to find work ;-)
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