MA in Museum Studies and MA/PhD in Art History (candidates, students, graduates)

[addiebella16]

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

Comments

[ameshu205]

Have you considered Winterthur's masters program? While you wouldn't get quite the breadth of art historical coursework as you would at Williams (or some place similar), if you're relatively certain that your interests lie in American decorative arts and material culture, the experience that Winterthur offers is unparalleled. In addition to rigorous coursework, incredible travel/networking opportunities, and full funding (plus a stipend!), they also offer lots of opportunities to intern in a wide range of departments within the museum. I would also encourage you to look into Williams -- it truly is a terrific place.

In terms of the MA or PhD question, you're right to be considering all of these different questions. However, speaking from personal experience, let me toss in that I believe whatever time you seem to "lose" by completing a terminal masters first, you generally "make up" by having a much clearer idea of what (1) you're looking for in PhD program and (2) what you want to get out of your coursework, exams, and dissertation. In addition, I think it's rare for a PhD program not to accept at least some of your master's coursework; obviously, the amounts will vary from school to school, but I can think of only one (Princeton, if I'm not mistaken) that makes you earn an entirely separate master's degree. So, I'd say apply to some of both, but don't rule out the terminal MA programs!

[addiebella16]

Thanks kindly for contributing your thoughts. I really appreciate it. Timely, you mention Winterthur; I spent some time on University of Delaware's website today (among many other schools). Museum experience is extremely important in case I want to return into the field.

Your rationale for terminal MA programs is extremely sensible. I want review topics of art history, excel in the courses, narrow down academic interests, and if I can, work in its affiliated museum; I will definitely look into University of Delaware/Winterthur and Williams. (Did you go to either school?) University of Colorado-Boulder was the first school I examined in my search, and I am so drawn to the MA program at CU. I have also visited the campus and seen its museums first hand.

Yes, among many, many things, I am very passionate about decorative arts. My Facebook Timeline cover photo is a 1820 Staffordshire tea pot! I am thinking maybe about folk portraits next. :-) Thanks also for appreciating this entangled inquiry.

[addiebella16]

While I need to do more research, I spent time this evening on the Winterthur website; indeed, the master's program looks AMAZING. The program also looks like a great fit for my academic interests. Thank you so much for suggesting it to me.