How to Be a History Museum Curator

History museum curators work with relics from the past.

History museum curators are caretakers of human knowledge. They oversee the acquisition, display and preservation of objects of historical value. They plan exhibits, speak to collectors and authenticate items. The years of work it takes to become a history museum curator are worth the effort for those who want to help preserve the past.

Instructions

1. Complete a bachelor's degree in history at a four-year university. Although history museum curators must have a broad reservoir of historical knowledge, they are essentially certified experts in a specific area of the past. For example, if you're most interested in Egyptian history, include classes in archaeology and ancient world history as part of your broader studies.

2. Earn a graduate degree in history or museum studies. Most museums require curators to have at least a master's degree. Graduate work will allow you to focus your studies in the area of your choice, culminating in a master's thesis and possibly a doctoral thesis. Contributing to the academic knowledge of a specific field with a published thesis will impress an employer at a museum.

3. Check with your university for internship opportunities at local history museums. Many programs in museum studies will help students obtain practical, on-the-job experience. Alternatively, apply for a job as a registrar in a museum once you have your bachelor's degree. A registrar is a type of archivist that deals in inventory and shipping matters for the museum. Although this job isn't as prestigious as a full curator, you will get to handle valuable objects for the museum and gain experience that will give you a leg up when you enter the job market. A position as a registrar doesn't require a full graduate degree.

Tips & Warnings

• Tell your adviser early in your college career that your ultimate goal is to be a curator. A history curator will need a large pool of knowledge in a variety of historical fields, and your adviser can help you create an educational plan that prepares you for these demands.

• Study digital imaging, advertising and copyright laws in college. Curators are often responsible for advertisements and articles for the museum's website.

• Be prepared to continue your education even after you have the job. As an expert in the field of history, you will need to keep abreast of the latest knowledge from the academic field via papers and conferences.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Archivists, Curators and Museum Technicians
• Career Planner: Museum Registrar Job Description