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Master of Art in Museum Studies and Historical Preservation

DEGREE TYPE LEARNING MODE
DEGREE TYPE

Master of Art

LEARNING MODE

On-Campus | Online

120

Credit Hours

4

Years to Complete

1

Program Track

Take the next step in your academic and professional career with Morgan. Pursue your future – today.

Program Director

Contact Information : Dr. Lawrence Peskin

E : lawrence.peskin@morgan.edu

Museum Studies and Historical Preservation students

Transform Your Future with the MA in Museum Studies and Historical Preservation

The Master of Arts in Museum Studies and Historical Preservation at Morgan State University provides students with the theoretical foundation and practical training needed to excel in the museum and public history fields. As the only program of its kind at an HBCU in Maryland, this program offers a unique opportunity to gain specialized knowledge and hands-on experience while preparing for diverse careers in museums, archives, and cultural heritage institutions. Students benefit from a dynamic curriculum that blends rigorous academic coursework with applied learning opportunities, including participation in oral history projects, on-campus museum exhibitions, and required internships that connect them directly to the professional world.

Why Morgan?

Unique

the only HBCU-based M.A. in museum studies in Maryland

Experience

Experienced faculty who are experts in public history and preservation.

Access

Direct access to hands-on projects in Morgan’s museums and archives.

Connection

Strong partnerships with regional cultural and historical institutions

Pathways

Flexible pathways with thesis and non-thesis options along with 4 concentrations

Diversity

Commitment to diversity, community engagement, and historical justice

Move Forward in Your Professional Career

Choosing Morgan means joining a community of musicians dedicated to artistry, scholarship, and leadership. With opportunities for performance, research, and professional development, the Master of Arts in Music at Morgan equips you to make your mark on the world stage.

Museum Studies and Historical Preservation students

Learn In-Demand Skills

Acquire the knowledge needed to bring cutting-edge archival, technological, and communication methods to museums. Bring museum collections to life with today's most in-demand skills.

  • Archival processes
  • Authenticating paintings
  • Managing and developing exhibit collections
  • Governance and public policy in museums
  • Technology in museums
  • Fundraising
  • Marketing

Museum Studies and Historical Preservation students

Secure Your Ideal Career

Once you graduate with a museum studies and historical preservation master's degree, you will be prepared for a wide range of positions in a variety of museums. Explore a few of the job titles and careers that align with the historical preservation field.

  • Archivist
  • Curator
  • Museum Conservator
  • Museum Educator
  • Museum Director

Pursue Hands-On Research and Internships

Find the competitive edge you've been looking for. Maximize your potential with real-world experiences outside the classroom, including career-oriented internships, advanced research or thesis projects, and networking events in the Baltimore-Washington metropolis. Make connections in the community. Collaborate with our award-winning faculty. Take advantage of our world-class facilities, including 16 civil engineering laboratories that have an earthquake shake table and two wind tunnels. Here, you have every opportunity you need to thrive.

female student at a desk on a computer

Discover the MA in Museum Studies and Historical Preservation

Find meaningful success—both personally and professionally—with the On-Campus MA in Museum Studies and Historical Preservation. If you are ready to learn valuable skills for a more rewarding career, why wait? Request more information today and we will reach out to you with all the details.

Request Information

Program Requirements

The program consists of 33 credit hours of advanced coursework designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students have the option to specialize in Public History or Art, tailoring their academic journey to align with their individual career goals. Key coursework includes training in exhibition development, preservation techniques, and oral history. Both thesis and non-thesis tracks are available, allowing students to choose a pathway that best fits their academic interests and professional aspirations.

Requirements

Course Title Credits
Course

MUSE 797 

Title

Thesis Guidance 

Credits

3

Course

MUSE 799 

Title

Thesis Defense 

Credits

3

Course

MUSE 600 

Title

Principles of Preventive Conservation

Credits

3

Course

MUSE 522

Title

 Internship 

Credits

3

Course

MUSE 521 

Title

Theories of Museum Studies

Credits

3

Course

MUSE 520

Title

 Introduction to Museum Studies 

Credits

3

Achieve Success Like Our Alumni

At Morgan, student success is our top priority. Our goal is to provide an exceptional learning environment in which your academic, intellectual, and personal growth excel far beyond your expectations and long after graduation. Known for our achievements in the humanities and social sciences, we have a strong history of guiding students toward success no matter what the challenge. Just like our distinguished alumni before you, you can accomplish the unimaginable.  We are confident you will become part of our legacy of excellence. 

Financial Aid Makes Things Possible

Choosing the right program is a big decision—and we are here to help you navigate the options available for funding your education. Whether you are an in-state, out-of-state, or international student, you may be eligible for Graduate Funding. We also offer two types of Graduate Assistantships: Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs). Both provide special learning opportunities in exchange for a stipend/salary and Tuition Award. In addition, by simply filing your FAFSA each year, you will be able to participate in Federal Plus Loans and Federal Direct Loan Programs. With proper planning, going back to graduate school is more than possible. We are committed to breaking barriers and opening doors for all future students. Contact us to learn more about affordability at Morgan’s School of Graduate Studies.

  • Graduate Fellowships and federal Title III Graduate Fellowships provide a stipend and Tuition Award
  • Teaching Assistantships offer you the chance to teach and assist with undergraduate courses
  • Research Assistantships give you research experience with faculty-led or external projects
  • Federal Direct Loan Programs include the Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized Loans
  • Additional Grants and Scholarships from external sources award free money—so apply early