In the museum studies degree, you’ll learn how collections are built, curated, and interpreted and you will apply methods of exhibition and interpretation used in museums, archives, galleries, libraries, and public spaces including national parks.
Program skills
All students become familiar with: the history and theory of exhibitions and with the process of designing an exhibition; technologies involved in museum work, including databases, website design, and social media; specific areas of museum practice; experience in fundraising and development, and have written a grant; and the understanding of the public role of the museum and its mission as an educational force in the community.
Program facilities equipment
Students have access to collections owned by the university and galleries/exhibition spaces on campus.
Program job titles reported
Assistant Curator; Collections Associate; Document Processor; Gallery Manager; Exhibit Project Manager; Archivist
Select program hiring partners
Eastman Kodak Company, Genesee Country Village & Museum, George Eastman Museum, New York Public Library, Rochester Institute of Technology, Smithsonian Institution; The Strong
87.5%
Outcome Rates*
100%
Knowledge Rate
| Outcome | % of Students |
|---|---|
| Employed | 50.00% |
| Full-time Graduate Study | 37.50% |
| Alternative Plans | 0% |
Experiential Learning
Cooperative Education
What’s different about an RIT education? It’s the career experience you gain by completing cooperative education and internships with top companies in every single industry. You’ll earn more than a degree. You’ll gain real-world career experience that sets you apart. It’s exposure–early and often–to a variety of professional work environments, career paths, and industries.
Students in the museum studies degree are required to complete one cooperative education (co-op) or internship experience in a cultural institution. Co-op is full-time, paid work experience in your field of study. Co-ops are usually a summer or semester in duration. Internships may be full- or part-time and are often completed during the semester. They vary in duration depending on the organization. Both co-ops and internships may be completed locally, nationally, or internationally.