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 three-course certificate program, you’ll gain the practical knowledge and skills needed to start or advance your museum career. We’ll dive into foundational topics, such as museum administration, education, collections, exhibitions and community engagement. We’ll explore how these areas function at various institutions and venues, including traditional museums, science centers, historical societies, zoos and botanical gardens.
DESIGNED FOR
Anyone who works or volunteers in museums and other institutions, as well as those interested in entering the field.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
This program does not require any previous experience working in museums. Anyone is encouraged to enroll.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about five to seven 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
- Common roles and departments in museums and how they connect to and support each other
- How museums uphold their goals and values and adhere to best practices in the field
- Collection management policies, procedures and technology, and exhibition planning processes and design principles
- The principles of diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion (DEAI) in museum content and programming, and how to raise the issues of decolonization, voice, authority and representation
- How to apply museum education theories to engage and inspire diverse audiences
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.