Types of College Degrees Held by Museum Curators

Choosing the right path to becoming a museum curator involves understanding the different areas of expertise that are required. Whether your interest lies in art history, archaeology, anthropology, or physical sciences, there is likely a specific degree that will align with your museum's focus. This article delves into the most common degrees held by museum curators and highlights the unique paths taken by some notable figures in the field.

Diverse Paths to Curating

The educational journey of a museum curator can be as varied as the museums themselves. Some curators hold degrees in areas such as art history, archaeology, anthropology, or physical sciences. These academic backgrounds provide a solid foundation for understanding and interpreting the diverse collections within a museum.

One notable example is Frank Oppenheimer, the brother of J. Robert Oppenheimer, who was involved in the Manhattan Project. Due to his leftist political views, he was unable to find a job in physics, leading him to become the director of the San Francisco Exploratorium, a renowned science museum. This unique journey highlights the flexibility and adaptability required in the field of museum curation.

Common Degree Paths

While many curators hold degrees in the traditional fields of art history, archaeology, or anthropology, others opt for more specialized studies. According to Dr. Gupta, an expert in the field, a second degree in museum studies is increasingly common, providing curators with the skills needed to manage and enhance museum collections.

Museum curators may also specialize in specific areas, such as conservation. Conservationists often hold degrees in areas like archaeometallurgy or have a combination of specialized courses in areas such as painting, paper, textiles, and even furniture and fine art. Kathleen Johnson, a renowned conservator, emphasizes the importance of a hands-on approach to specialized courses in conservation.

For those interested in a more technical aspect of museum curation, some museums employ conservation scientists who are generally chemists, focusing on the analysis of materials. This specialized role ensures that the physical integrity of museum artifacts is maintained.

Support Staff and Management

Beyond the curators, the backbone of a museum's operation includes staff such as librarians and archivists. These professionals ensure that the documentation and records are maintained, supporting the overall mission of the museum. Additionally, there are graduates in office management roles who contribute to the smooth functioning of the museum.

Dr. Gupta further explains that while the role of a curator is often seen as the "sharp end" of the museum, these behind-the-scenes staff members are just as crucial in ensuring that the museum runs smoothly and effectively.

Conclusion

The choice of college degree for a museum curator can vary widely, but the most important factor is the ability to engage with and interpret the collections. Whether through a traditional academic pathway or a more specialized route, the goal remains the same: to protect and present the cultural heritage of the world to the broader community.

If you are interested in becoming a museum curator, consider focusing on a degree in art history, archaeology, anthropology, or physical sciences. A second degree in museum studies can provide valuable skills for managing museum collections effectively. Explore specialized courses in conservation and consider the complementary roles played by conservation scientists, librarians, archivists, and management professionals to prepare for a fulfilling career in the museum world.

Keywords: museum curator, college degrees, museum studies