Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Museum Studies

Deer Fountain by Kenneth Bunn at the Eiteljorg Museum.

About Museum Studies

Museum Studies at IUPUI prepares people to be self-reflective leaders in the museum field. Faculty and students produce research that advances the scholarship of museums and their communities.

The Museum Studies Program is housed in the IU School of Liberal Arts on the IUPUI campus. The flexible, multidisciplinary curriculum allows students to build on the foundational knowledge presented in core courses and to select electives and internship experiences that meet their professional goals.

Students may focus on training paths such as education, exhibit development, administration, collections, or curatorial practices and interpretation with particular strengths in public art, Native American representation, and African-American history. They can select classes with a thematic focus such as civic engagement or representation. Students can also take a range of classes in preparation for the varied responsibilities of small museums and historic sites. Cross-listed classes in anthropology, history, philanthropic studies, fine arts, and non-profit management allow students to deepen their knowledge of topics such as public history, heritage studies, oral history, material culture, grant writing, fiscal management, and institutional advancement.

Hands-on learning and community engagement are hallmarks of our program. IUPUI is an urban university within walking distance of half a dozen museums and an easy commute to many others throughout Indianapolis. We have close connections with area museums, and our classes incorporate museum projects, applied research, and guest lecturers to help students connect concepts, theories, and methods to real-world practice. Museums also offer internship opportunities and job networking for students in the program.