Collections Management & Exhibition Development

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Course Details

  • Location: Online
  • Duration: 9 weeks
  • Times: Evenings
  • Cost : $1,415

Next Start Date:

April 21, 2026

This course is part of a certificate program. You can also take it without enrolling in the program.

Get Details & Apply

About this Course


In this course, you’ll explore the process of exhibition development, from purpose, planning and management to design, production, fabrication and evaluation. You’ll gain both an understanding of the fundamental principles of museum exhibition work and the necessary skill sets to apply those principles at an institution.

You’ll examine methods used to physically and intellectually manage various types of objects for long-term preservation. We'll focus on the types of work typically done by collection managers and registrars in a museum setting. Through hands-on assignments, you'll get practice identifying proper storage materials for preventive conservation and writing a condition report for actual objects. You'll also learn about disaster preparedness, how COVID-19 has affected collections management in museums, acquisition policies and how to best determine whether to accept objects based on museum policies.

We’ll approach collections management and registration with a well-rounded perspective rooted in best practices, and we'll focus on realistic situations, objects and goals, with an emphasis on fine art collections. 

What You'll Learn

  • Collection management best practices and exhibition design principles
  • Practical aspects of collection care, including storage, shipping, sustainability, risk-management protocols and ethical considerations
  • Curation techniques that engage diverse audiences and convey meaningful concepts in exhibitions
  • How to design accessible gallery spaces and exhibitions and use various interpretation methods to enhance visitor engagement
  • Strategies for flexible and collaborative practices among staff, such as integrating AI tools, to enhance productivity and decision-making

Learning Format

Online With Real-Time Meetings

Online Synchronous

Combine the convenience of online learning with the immediacy of real-time interaction. You’ll meet with your instructor and classmates at scheduled times over Zoom. Learn More »

Course Sessions

Online Synchronous

Noncredit

  • Online
  • Tue
  • 9 weeks
  • $1,415
View Certificate Program

Online

Meet your instructors

Andrew Walsh

Collections Manager, Santa Barbara Mission Archive-Library

Brooks Peck

Independent Curator and Writer

NONCREDIT COURSE

You'll earn 3 continuing education units (CEUs) for successfully completing this course. Learn more about noncredit options.

Note

This course can only be taken as part of the Certificate in Museum Studies Foundations.

Noncredit

  • Online
  • Wed
  • 9 weeks
  • $1,415
In Development
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