Museum Studies – Central European University and Wien Museum break new ground

The new, English-language training program in „Museum Studies“ kicks off today with a get-together at the Wien Museum for its first eight students, originating from seven countries. Over the next two years, they will devote themselves to an interdisciplinary study of history, deepen their knowledge of museums and learn the practical aspects of the diverse range of work performed by museum professionals. The program aims at familiarizing them with all aspects of museum operations – from the conception and curation of exhibitions to their communication and marketing. 

„The program provides students with the skills, experience and professional knowledge needed in a modern museum. I wish I had had the opportunity to combine theory and practice earlier in my career,“ says Nathaniel Prottas, Head of Wien Museum Education and co-director of this Master's program.

The Central European University (CEU) and the Wien Museum are responsible for the new course in partnership. In order to get to know everyday museum life, students complete a general internship in a local museum in the first year of study, while a specialized internship in connection with a final project is on the agenda in the second year.

„The program brings the university into the museum and the museum into the university. A synergy from which both the historical sciences and the museums will benefit,“ predicts Jan Hennings, co-director of the program at the Historical Studies Department of the CEU.

From A for Albertina to Z for ZOOM Children's Museum: the Master's program not only provides students with academic knowledge and research skills, but also practical knowledge through cooperation with leading museums in Vienna and the wider region. The new Master's degree program in “Museum Studies” thus prepares students in the best possible way for a wide range of careers in museums.