Making a mark with your career
How new entrants can stand out from the crowd when job hunting
Entering the sector
From postgraduate study to networking and volunteering – your guide to getting your museum career off to a flying start
The diversity of roles and disciplines within the sector make it an exciting and vibrant field in which to be involved. There are many different routes into the sector including postgraduate study, volunteering, internships and more. The articles in this section give you advice and information on these different opportunities and other invaluable advice and tips.
For many, a postgraduate course may be an attractive next step, whether straight after an undergraduate course or at any career point, to remain up to date, to diversify or to specialise.
Not all courses are the same, so it is important to explore the nature, style and focus of the course; speak to alumni or course leaders to help you make an informed decision.
Graduating with a lot of theoretical knowledge is not a guarantee of employability. To succeed, you will need a balance of theory and practical experience, so identifying courses that have a more practical focus or an embedded work placement or project can make all the difference.
For many, participating in a postgraduate course may not be an option. But there are other ways in which you can develop and grow. The MA has a comprehensive professional development programme that supports your growth, whether you want to join the sector or are already volunteering, freelancing or in paid employment.
Got a question about careers in museums?
Careers guide 2024
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Getting your CV right is key to securing an all-important interview
Getting the most from mentoring
Our guide on finding a mentor and getting the most out of the experience
Careers guide 2023
Look beyond traditional job roles
Julie Nightingale learns that whatever your skill set, there is a position for you in the sector
Transferable skills
Looking outside the sector can help to advance your museum career
CVs that stand out from the crowd
Tamsin Russell offers tips for writing a sparkling CV that could help ensure you secure that crucial job interview
Top tips for success
Museum workers share their advice on having a successful and fulfilling career in the sector
Careers guide 2022
Museums need you
A re-evaluation of vision and purpose is compelling museums to be creative to stay in business and engage with previously overlooked audiences
How to get your foot in the door
Advice on how to improve your chance of getting a job in a museum
Fair recruitment
Campaigning groups are helping to stamp out bad practice in recruitment
Tips for success
Museum workers offer their advice on how to get ahead in the sector
Skills for the future
What skills will those working in the museums of tomorrow need?
More careers content
Read our 2021 Careers Guide from Museums Journal:
- Guide: Making a career of it
- Trendswatch: Distance learning
- Focus: Why work in museums?
- The changing face of the museum sector
- The benefits of work experience
Read our 2020 Courses Guide:
- How the MA can help with your professional development
- Tips and tricks to help you get started
- Your wisest course of action
- Memberships to develop your career
- Lend a helping hand
- Must reads
- Valuable experience from placements
- How to ease the financial burden
- Q&As: students and recent graduates
- Apprenticeships
Discover
back to careersAssociateship of the Museums Association (AMA)
Reflective, collaborative learning to enhance your career
Museum Essentials
Online courses for members to boost your confidence and competence in key practice areas
Mentoring
Learn through conversation, challenge and reflection in a safe and non-judgemental space