Description:

Sound business practices are critical for a museum to fulfill its mission. Sounds like vegetables, right? Museum management is complex. A museum exists to preserve collections and educate, but it is also an institution that must employ sound business practices while being accountable to the public as a non-profit organization. Instructor Sue Near teaches participants how to administer a successful museum efficiently and effectively. Participants will engage in discussions about the changing cultural climate and its effect on museum operations.

Course Outline:

1. Introduction

2. Legal and Planning Documents

3. Staff Responsibilities, Organization, & Personnel Management

4. Strategic Planning

5. Budget Management and Accountability

6. Collections Management

7. Facilities Management

8. Marketing and Community Relations

9. Development and Membership

10. Public Programs and Evaluation

11. Overview of Future Trends

Course Text: "Museum Administration: An Introduction" by Hugh Genoways and Lynne Ireland (Altamira Press, 2003).