Program Overview
In the Museum Studies program, students explore how museums collect, preserve, interpret, and share cultural and scientific objects, while examining their role in society. At Lawrence, students engage through an interdisciplinary approach that connects fields like art history, anthropology, and science. They gain hands-on experience in courses and internships by working directly with campus collections, curating exhibitions, and conducting archival research. This combination of critical inquiry and practical training helps students understand both the ethics and operations of museums, preparing them for careers in curation, archives, education, and other cultural institutions.
Program Highlights
Learn by Working in Museums
Gain hands-on experience through internships that introduce you to different areas of museum work and help you build a professional network before graduation.
Curate with Real Collections
Develop exhibitions, work in galleries, and build pre-professional skills using Lawrence’s collections.
Explore Distinctive Objects and Artworks
Work directly with collections of art, archaeological and ethnographic objects, and historical materials.
Find an Internship That Fits Your Goals
Partner one-on-one with faculty to pursue meaningful internships on campus, in Appleton, and across the country.
Spotlight
Alumni Perspective
“Completing the Museum Studies IA taught me to think critically about how, why, and should items be in museums and special collections. The skills I learned in these classes are imperative tools in working to make research libraries more inclusive and welcoming spaces.”
Emma Lipkin ’19, Special Collections Librarian for Collection Management at The Newberry Library
English, Archeological Anthropology, Museum Studies
Chicago, Illinois
Types of Degrees
Students can pursue an Interdisciplinary Area (IA) in Museum Studies, akin to a minor. The IA is a perfect complement to a number of majors at Lawrence University, depending on a student’s interests.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
Engage deeply and collaboratively with professors who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
Chairs
Beth A. Zinsli (she/her)
Associate Provost and Adjunct Associate Professor of Art History
I teach courses on the history and theory of photography, museum studies, global modernisms, and contemporary art. In addition to an active curatorial practice, I write about photography from Cuba…
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Allison M. M. Fleshman (She/her)
Associate Professor of Chemistry
allison.m.fleshman@lawrence.edu
I'm the physical chemist here at Lawrence. I love physics, chemistry, and math and have the best job sharing that love with my students! My two favorite courses I teach…
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Benjamin Rinehart
David and Julia Uihlein Professor of Studio Art
benjamin.rinehart@lawrence.edu
I specialize in socially charged images with an emphasis on printmaking, book arts, pop-ups, and movables. I love how pop-ups and movables keep the viewer physically engaged by providing a…
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Beth A. Zinsli (she/her)
Associate Provost and Adjunct Associate Professor of Art History
I teach courses on the history and theory of photography, museum studies, global modernisms, and contemporary art. In addition to an active curatorial practice, I write about photography from Cuba…
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Jodi Sedlock (she/her)
Dennis and Charlot Nelson Singleton Professor of Biological Sciences
I have been exploring the secret lives of bats for many years, mostly across the diverse archipelago of the Philippines in Southeast Asia. In collaboration with Filipino scientists and conservation…
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Monica Rico (she/her)
Robert S. French Professor of American Studies and Professor of History
Monica Rico specializes in the history of early and nineteenth-century America. Her interests include transatlantic history, the American West, gender and environmental history. She is the author of Nature’s Noblemen:…
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Learning Spaces
Students work in the anthropology collection lab, the Wriston Art Galleries, or the University Archives on campus, depending on their areas of interest.
