Introduction to Museum Studies

This course provides a behind-the-scenes view of museums from the people who are actively involved in their operations. Students learn about the history and objectives of various types of museums (art, natural history, science, historical, zoological) through panel discussions that involve museum directors, curators, conservators, collection managers, and exhibit designers. The focus is the rich and diverse resources of Harvard University's museums, but there are also guest lecturers from other local museums. The course is required for students planning to apply to the Harvard Extension School's graduate program in museum studies, but is also appropriate for the avid museum-goer who desires a more comprehensive understanding of how museums function.