Minor in Museums and Archives Studies

About the Minor

Beginning in fall 2026, Purdue Libraries and School of Information Studies, in collaboration with the Patti and Rusty Rueff School of Design, Art, and Performance—led by Purdue University Archives and Special Collections and Purdue University Galleries—will offer an undergraduate minor in Museums and Archives Studies.

This comprehensive program explores the structures, histories, theories, and professional practices that shape museums and archives today. Students will gain practical skills in curatorial and archival work, research, and written and verbal communication skills that apply to a wide range of careers.

The minor is open to students from all majors and requires no prerequisites.

Why Pursue This Minor?

The Museum and Archive Studies minor gives undergraduates a unique opportunity to explore museum and archive careers before committing to graduate school. Few programs in the U.S. provide the same level of hands-on experience available through Purdue’s Galleries and Archives and Special Collections.

By formalizing existing coursework and internships, this minor expands access to experiential learning and strengthens students’ academic and professional portfolios—making them more competitive for jobs and graduate programs in the field.

Students who complete this minor will be able to

1. Explain the historical foundations of museums and archives. 
2. Identify basic organizational structures and career paths of museums, galleries, archives, and special collections libraries. 
3. Analyze the value and educational mission of museums, galleries, archives, and special collections across multiple disciplines. 
4. Interpret contemporary theories and practices within museums, galleries, archives, and special collections. 
5. Apply learning to future opportunities in chosen specialties, majors, and career fields.

Requirements for the minor (16 credits)

Next Steps

• Contact your academic advisor to enroll in the Museums and Archives Studies minor.
• Have questions? Contact Neal Harmeyer, Assistant Dean and Head of Purdue University Archives and Special Collections, for more information.

Notes

• This minor is available to all majors. 
• A graduation GPA of 2.0 is required for the minor.
• At least 50% of credits for a College of Liberal Arts minor must be from Purdue University. 
• College of Liberal Arts Pass/No Pass Option Policy: P/NP cannot be used to satisfy Liberal Arts Core, Liberal Arts major, minor, or minor requirements