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Museum Studies, MA

The University of San Francisco offers a unique master’s degree in museum studies. Our program prepares students for leadership positions in artistic, cultural, and heritage organizations that operate in a constantly changing social dynamic.

Museum Studies, MA
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Apply Now for 2025

The Fall 2025 application is now open. 
The priority application date is February 1.

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Hands-On Experience

Our sixteen-month curriculum is flexible and can be tailored to fit students’ diverse academic interests. The Museum Studies MA program provides students with the comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience to assume a variety of roles at museums, historic societies, cultural nonprofits, and heritage organizations.

Program Overview
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For over a decade, University of San Francisco students and faculty have been our valued partners in the creation of innovative educational programming and outreach that benefits a wide community. The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco is grateful to USF for being such important members of our community."

Sheila Pressley Director of Education, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco

A Career in Museum Studies

A master's in museum studies can open up a variety of career opportunities within the museum and cultural heritage sector. Learn more about the many career paths available for museum studies graduates.

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Museum Studies Class
Student with magnifying class, looking at etchings
Students visiting the Legion of Honor museum in San Francisco.
USF Museum Studies students and The Mexican Museum partnered to present ¡Escultura!, a collection of metal sculptures by renowned Latino and Mexican artists.
Museum Studies students preparing 'Interwoven: Indigenous Contemporary'
Students visiting the Exploratorium in San Francisco.
Museum Studies students preparing 'Interwoven: Indigenous Contemporary' an exhibit comprised of works by artists — most from California Indian tribes — who challenged preconceived ideas about indigenous identity.
Museum Studies students presented 'The Internet of its day' an exhibit spotlighting the printing press’s role in changing history.
Students visiting the Legion of Honor museum in San Francisco.
USF Museum Studies students and The Mexican Museum partnered to present ¡Escultura!, a collection of metal sculptures by renowned Latino and Mexican artists.
Museum Studies students preparing 'Interwoven: Indigenous Contemporary'
Students visiting the Exploratorium in San Francisco.

Work at World-Class San Francisco Museums

USF’s campus — situated in the center of the city — is within walking distance to the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park, a short bus ride to SFMOMA and the Asian Art Museum, and an easy drive to world-class institutions in Berkeley, Oakland, Palo Alto, and San Jose.

Students on a roof look at the city skyline.

Changing the World, One Museum at a Time

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Explore the Art History & Museum Studies Program

  • Blend history and theory with practical experience. Learn visual literacy, critical thinking, and research skills that enable you to thrive in the art world.

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Museum Studies, MA

Javier Plasencia, Program Manager
(415) 422-4039
Fromm Hall