Museum Studies - History Track, M.A.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. a completed application and the non-refundable fee. Applications must be on the program’s on-line form.
2. official transcripts of all college work showing earned bachelor’s degree.
3. official scores from the GRE General Test.
4. two letters of recommendation. Ideally, one will be from a college faculty member who can attest to ability to complete an M.A. program and one will be from a supervisor or individual qualified to evaluate relevant work experience.

Materials must arrive by January 10 to be considered for the class beginning the following August.

Admission is competitive. The Program accepts up to 30 students each year from three times as many applicants. CGP looks for people who are committed to public service in museums, science centers, historical organizations, and related institutions; who can succeed in an intensive program; and who can work cooperatively with others. The Admissions Committee considers applicants’ grade point average, GRE scores, recommendations, communication skills, and museum experience. A major or minor in history, science, or a related field is helpful, but not required. After reviewing all files, the Committee invites candidates for a weekend of orientation and interviews in Cooperstown in March. The Committee makes its final decisions by late March.

Curriculum: Students are admitted to either the history or science track. The curriculum is organized around a sequence of required courses in museum studies. Students also attend a professional seminar in leadership each semester in residence, and they are required to complete diversity and discipline-appropriate research courses. 

Elective courses in science, American history, material culture, art, museum management, cultural competency, diversity/inclusion, historic preservation, digital technologies, special topics, and independent study are also offered.

Field trips, guest speakers, attendance at conferences, formal and informal involvement with the activities of area non-profits, career counseling, and internships supplement the curriculum.

Students must take a minimum of twelve credit hours each semester, earn a grade of “B-” or above in all required courses, and maintain an overall grade point average of 3.00.

Additional General Information

Students pay the State University Tuition and specified College Fees. CGP assesses its own Student Activity Fee.

Fellowships are awarded to students in residence, based on need and academic excellence. Paid assistantships and some tuition waivers are also available.