Note: Please remember that this list is only a point of departure; you should also become familiar with organizations in your academic discipline or area of interest as well as museum groups that are active on the regional level.

Use the following sites to familiarize yourself with professional organizations in and related to the museum field.

MUSEUM ORGANIZATIONS:

American Association of Museums (AAM)

The American Association of Museums is the largest and most comprehensive professional organization for museums and museum professionals. Individual student memberships are $35; visit the website to learn about the benefits of becoming a member. The AAM holds an annual conference dealing with issues germane to all museum professionals and the job announcement bulletin, AVISO, lists employment, fellowship, and internship opportunities. AAM also publishes the periodical Museum News. A listserv is available; membership is not required to join it.

Southeastern Museums Conference

Florida Association of Museums

American Anthropological Association (AAA)

The American Anthropological Association is the largest professional organization for students and scholars of anthropology in the United States.

College Art Association (CAA)

The College Art Association is the premier organization for students and scholars of art, art history, and art criticism, as well as student and professional artists. Student membership rates are available; annual dues range from $40-$50, depending on annual income.

National Recreation and Park Association

The mission of the National Recreation and Park Association is to "advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people.
Visit the website for information about membership.

The Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections

The Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections is a multidisciplinary organization composed of individuals who are interested in development and preservation of natural history collections. "Natural history collections" include specimens and supporting documentation, such as audio-visual materials, labels, library materials field data and similar archives. "Preservation" refers to any direct or indirect activity providing continued and improved care of these collections and supporting documents. The Society actively encourages the participation of individuals involved with all aspects of natural history collections. Individual membership is available for $25 (there is currently no student membership).

To see a list of other professional organizations and societies related to the study of natural history and the sciences, visit the site for Professional Societies and Organizations.