In most cases, students seeking a master’s degree in Museum Studies will be completing a project-in-lieu-of-thesis rather than a thesis. In general terms, projects are focused on an activity rather than extensive research and writing. Each project is unique to an individual’s needs and her/his desire to gain experience in a particular aspect of museum work. For example, a student might catalogue a collection, organize an exhibition, or undertake a visitor study. Although centered on an activity, projects also include a significant written component outlining the experience and its relevance to contemporary museums.

Those students who choose to do a thesis rather than a project will follow the guidelines for their discipline. Students who wish to explore this option should see the director of Museum Studies in order to establish the parameters of their work. A booklet entitled Guide for Preparing Theses and Dissertations may be obtained from the Theses and Dissertation Office, GRI 109.

The following sites are invaluable resources for graduate students in any discipline:

Campus Writing Center

Proper citations in papers:

Citation Styles Guide site. This site lists online references for APA, MLA, Turabian/Chicago Manual of Style, and other citation methods.

Electronic Theses and Dissertations site:

Beginning Fall 2001, all graduate students are required to submit theses and dissertations electronically. Visit the Graduate Education site to access the history of the Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD), contact information, a layout template and previously published ETDs.

Note: Many Museum Studies students choose to complete a project-in-lieu of thesis.These students are NOT bound by the above requirement. Additionally, any student who began graduate study prior to Fall 2001 has the option of submitting the thesis electronically or via hard copy.