Applied Museum Studies
Learn curatorial and conservation techniques for a career upholding culture and history.
- Hands-on projects in our conservation and exhibition preparation labs
- Program provides a full teaching collection within the lab spaces
- University graduates can take advantage of direct entry into 2nd year
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2025
No
Schedule
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Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
The three-year Applied Museum Studies Ontario College Advanced Diploma prepares you with the knowledge and skills to support curatorial and conservation activities in the museum, heritage and cultural sectors....(read more)
Overview
Learn curatorial and conservation techniques for a career upholding culture and history.
The three-year Applied Museum Studies Ontario College Advanced Diploma prepares you with the knowledge and skills to support curatorial and conservation activities in the museum, heritage and cultural sectors.
Gain skills and knowledge in:
- collections management
- educational programming
- exhibit preparation
- museum management
- conservation and preservation
Develop capabilities related to cultural resource management, focusing on collections care, research and interpretation. Areas of study include:
- classifying, cataloguing and interpreting collections of artifacts and works of art
- constructing and installing exhibits and displays
- assessing, preserving and treating material culture
Put theory into practice in our well-appointed conservation and exhibition preparation labs. Working with our teaching collection and in collaboration with local cultural institutions, you complete a variety of hands-on projects and group assignments that will enhance your knowledge and skills and make valuable contributions in museums, galleries and the cultural sector.
This program includes a full-semester field placement. The field experience combines your theory and lab skills with professional practice in the cultural industry. At the end of your placement, highlight your work in a showcase event. The showcase event also gives you the chance to network with industry professionals for future employment.
Graduates of this program may find opportunities in entry-level technical and management positions in museums and galleries or other cultural/heritage institutions. Graduates may also be employed as freelance museum contractors or as staff in antique or art shops.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Have an interest in preserving our cultural past.
- Like to be creative with their hands and/or tools.
- Enjoy educating others about cultures, historical events, people and our natural world.
- Are observant and well-organized.
- Have good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Are detail oriented.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
ENL1813S
Course Name:
Communications 1
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS1974
Course Name:
Canadian Studies
Course Description:
Students examine the social, political and economic history of Canada from Confederation to the present. Through the investigation of select... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS1997
Course Name:
Art, Architecture and Artifacts
Course Description:
Style has influenced art, architecture and artifacts throughout history. Students discover some of the major style makers and examine the ma... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS1999
Course Name:
Introduction to Museum Research
Course Description:
Students focus on research as it applies to the museum field, including the different types of research, sources of information, research st... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2003
Course Name:
Introduction to Group Dynamics
Course Description:
Being able to work within a group effectively is an essential interpersonal skill required in the work force. Students explore theories of ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3000
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner I
Course Description:
Learning French is essential to understand and communicate in workplace environments. Students develop basic level abilities in reading, lis... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
FLS3001
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner II
Course Description:
Success in bilingual postsecondary institutions and in the workplace rests upon good French language skills. Students increase reading, list... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
ENL1853C
Course Name:
Professional Writing for Museum Studies
Course Description:
Communicating clearly to different audiences for different purposes is a skill required for success in the workplace. Through composing and ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS1934
Course Name:
History of Technology
Course Description:
Students explore the concept of technology and review its historical origins. The influences of early technology and how they have changed t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2000
Course Name:
Critical Thinking
Course Description:
Logic and critical-thinking skills play an important role in both daily life and ongoing academic studies. Students learn the art of analyz... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2002
Course Name:
Introduction to Museum Studies
Course Description:
Students are introduced to the major fields of museum work. Students develop knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of professionals wo... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MUS2004
Course Name:
Cultural Sector Career Preparation
Course Description:
Students are prepared to locate employment opportunities and apply for employment in the cultural sector. They are provided with the tools n... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
FLS3001
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner II
Course Description:
Success in bilingual postsecondary institutions and in the workplace rests upon good French language skills. Students increase reading, list... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
FLS3002
Course Name:
French as a Second Language Beginner III
Course Description:
Clear and accurate communication skills in French lead to academic and career success. Students receive extensive feedback from instructors ... + Read More
Hours:
48.0
Code:
GED0446
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS0039
Course Name:
Digital Content in the Cultural Sector
Course Description:
Evolutions in technology have resulted in a wealth of digital information that has strengthened cultural institutions by supporting collecti... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
MUS2006
Course Name:
Museum Management
Course Description:
An overview of museum management and operations is provided by involving students in the process of management planning. Students create a b... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2007
Course Name:
Collections Management I - Registration
Course Description:
Curatorial research, education and the interpretation of material culture relies largely on objects in the institution's collection. Effecti... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2008
Course Name:
Shop Practices
Course Description:
Knowledge of shop practices and the development of shop skills support collections management projects, conservation treatments and exhibit ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MUS2023
Course Name:
Preservation Principles 1
Course Description:
Conditions and agents of deterioration are introduced. Students explore the various environmental and human influences that can cause or acc... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MUS2024
Course Name:
Preservation Principles 2
Course Description:
The ability to properly stabilize objects relies on a knowledge of material science. Students examine the physical and chemical nature of a... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MUS2026
Course Name:
Digital Design for Museums
Course Description:
Students learn the basics of design by integrating graphic design fundamentals with the development of essential computer graphic software t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2010
Course Name:
Informal Learning in Museums
Course Description:
Students develop an understanding of making exhibitions and programs more accessible to museum visitors. Students study learning styles, vis... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2012
Course Name:
Educational Programming
Course Description:
Public programming is one of the main ways that cultural institutions engage with the public. An introduction, with a focus on the education... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2013
Course Name:
Techniques in Exhibition
Course Description:
Display fabrication requires specialized technical knowledge to meet the demanding environment in a museum or gallery. Students further exp... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
MUS2014
Course Name:
Laboratory Procedures I
Course Description:
Along with a thorough understanding of the principles and techniques of preventive care, the development of remedial treatment skills is cri... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
MUS2015
Course Name:
Revenue Generation and Public Relations
Course Description:
Students explore traditional methods of revenue generation within the cultural sector and emerging revenue generation trends. The sources fo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2016
Course Name:
Collections Management 2 - Cataloguing and Research
Course Description:
Effective management of the collection supports curatorial research, education and the interpretation of material culture. Proper documentat... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS1982
Course Name:
Human Resources Planning and Management
Course Description:
Human capital is a critical organizational resource that contributes to goal attainment, strategy, financial results and the sustainability ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2017
Course Name:
Collection Management 3 - Care, Handling and Storage
Course Description:
Effective management of the collection supports curatorial research, education and the interpretation of material culture. Comprehension of... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MUS2018
Course Name:
Program Interpretation
Course Description:
Students focus on the delivery of museum programs and learn about the many methods used to animate collections in museums today. Students ar... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MUS2019
Course Name:
Plan and Develop Educational Exhibitions
Course Description:
Students explore exhibit planning, design and development. The management principles, visitor evaluation strategies, interpretive planning d... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MUS2020
Course Name:
Laboratory Procedures 2
Course Description:
The ability to care for a diverse collection increases with further exposure to principles and techniques of preventive care and the develop... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
MUS2021
Course Name:
Museum Field Placement Preparation
Course Description:
Carefully selected practicum experiences maximize the value of field placements. In preparation for securing a field placement, students an... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
MUS2022
Course Name:
Museum Field Placement
Course Description:
Professional practicum experiences enhance and expand on newly acquired knowledge and skills. In collaboration with faculty and a dedicated ... + Read More
Hours:
455.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Upon graduation, you may find employment in entry-level technical or management positions in museums, galleries or other cultural/heritage institutions.
Other employment possibilities may include freelance museum contracting, or working as a staff member in an antique or art shop. The skills you gain will essentially open the doors to your cultural career. Job opportunities may also exist at cultural attractions, interpretive centres, framing shops, government agencies and more.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Apply course learning and training to function within an employment situation.
- Create and maintain well organized, managed and documented collection.
- Identify, advance and incorporate approved conservation principles into all museum practices to ensure the long-term preservation of objects.
- Create and deliver educational programs for/to audiences of all ages, interests and abilities with clearly defined and measurable learning objectives and outcomes.
- Design, construct and install interpretative exhibits which are accessible, relevant, accurate and effectively communicate defined and measurable objectives.
- Apply a range of management and administrative knowledge and skills to maintain and strengthen the role and the impact of museums in society.
- Conduct research for the following three areas: Subject Area, Museum Function, and Museological.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies cost approximately $1,000 for first year, $410 for second year, $150 for third year, and can be purchased at the campus store.
- For more information visit www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
- Students can expect additional costs for equipment such as lab coat, tools, safety goggles, SD memory card etc., amounting to about $100 in second year.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
- Eligibility for Direct Entry to Second Year: Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma or a University Degree.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Applicants who have completed a university degree may be accepted for direct entry into second year of the program (Level 03). Direct entry applicants should clearly identify that they are applying to Level 03 (rather than Level 01) when applying to www.ontariocolleges.ca. Competition for a limited number of direct entry vacancies is stiff. Ensure you apply to the program by February 1st for equal consideration.
Application Information
APPLIED MUSEUM STUDIES
Program Code 0446C01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
The Applied Museum Studies program consists of courses that are delivered in a variety of formats including face-to-face in a classroom, hybrid (combination of classroom and online learning) and online courses. Students participate in all three types of learning. Students also participate in laboratory and field placement learning activities.
Class schedules vary from term to term and courses may be scheduled between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Students are strongly encouraged to improve their French language skills to maximize job opportunities, particularly those available in the Ottawa area which require bilingualism. Students should be prepared to complete one to two hours of additional preparation, study and/or project work for each hour spent in the classroom or laboratory. Due to the specialized nature of the museum labs and equipment, a significant amount of this extra work needs to be conducted in the labs at the College and cannot be completed at home.
Students may apply for transfer of academic credits from Algonquin College (internal transfer) or from other institutions (external transfer). College Policies AA09 and AA10 apply to transfer of credits. For more information visit: www.algonquincollege.com/directives. Students may apply for credit by challenging courses using Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). College Policy AA06 applies to PLAR. Students pay a fee for each course they wish to be exempt from and, through either a portfolio or challenge examination, a PLAR may lead to the acceptance of work and life experience in lieu of taking certain courses. For more information visit: www.algonquincollege.com/col/plar.html.
Museum workers are often in contact with the public and frequently engage with others in a team environment. As such, interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing are considered crucial skills for our graduates. Workers who handle museum objects and works of art must be precise, detail-oriented and comfortable with assuming responsibility for collections that are often delicate, fragile and very valuable.
Experience is a key factor in finding permanent employment in the cultural sector. Volunteer positions and field placements help students determine their preferred areas of work and provide networking opportunities with industry professionals. The program schedule allows time for volunteering, provides a 15-week field placement and offers students many opportunities to establish industry contacts.
Note: Students must successfully complete all courses up to Level 06 to participate in a semester-long Field Placement.
ACADEMIC PROBATION:
Students who have two or more F grades in a given term or whose term grade point average falls below 1.7 are considered to be on academic probation (Policy AA14 Grading System). This requires the student to meet with their academic advisor or coordinator to sign a learning contract which identifies the conditions which must be met to continue in the program. Students who do not meet the terms of their learning contract are withdrawn from the program.
Contact
Desideria Desjardins
Program Coordinator
Michael Wheatley
Professor
Michael’s background includes 10 years of Audio-Visual work with various production houses in Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal. An honours graduate of the AMS program, he completed a number of museum contracts before accepting a position in the federal public service as a collections manager.
Since joining the AMS team in 2003, Michael has taught shop, design and computer courses, in addition to helping students create exhibitions for several museum partners in the region.