About this Program
In our increasingly high-tech and virtual society, museums offer a space where communities can interact through meaningful objects, discover new passions and learn more about each other and our multifaceted world. All such institutions — whether devoted to art, science, nature, history or another category of human knowledge — need trained professionals to function and thrive.
In this six-course certificate program, you’ll gain in-depth knowledge of museum administration, programs, collections, exhibits and community engagement. We’ll explore how these areas apply in a wide range of institutions and venues, including traditional museums, science centers, historical societies, zoos and botanical gardens. You’ll then apply this learning by completing a real-world project in the practicum course.
▸ Related Article: What it's Like Working at a Museum
DESIGNED FOR
Professionals who work or volunteer in museums and other institutions, as well as those interested in entering the field.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have two years of college or the equivalent in professional training, work experience or volunteer work that indicates the ability to perform academic work at the college level.
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You should be willing to proactively secure a practicum placement, which involves working mostly independently in an internship at least 25 hours during the third quarter.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about 5 to 7 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
- Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
- High-speed internet connection
- Headset and webcam (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Strategies for planning and managing new program development
- How to create, promote and evaluate educational programming for children and adults
- Collection management policies and procedures
- Fundamental principles of exhibit design, production and maintenance
- How to build relationships with the community, donors and supporters
GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
- Serve an internship at a local museum, cultural organization or historical society and complete an independent project for the organization
- Work with artifacts in museum settings
- Plan and design interpretive programming and exhibits
- Take behind-the-scenes visits in local museums
Apply for a Scholarship
You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For eligibility details, see the Scholarships page.
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.