MA in Critical Museum Studies in Amherst United States | University at Buffalo, SUNY

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA (or equivalent) of 3.2 or above unless a compelling explanation justifies a lower GPA.  

You should not have to send in any hard copies of your materials. You will be able to upload these documents in your applicant status portal after filling out the application. 

-Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

-Two Writing Samples:

1.) Relevant Background, Experience, and Future Goals Statement (3-page maximum):

This statement introduces you to the admissions committee. In a compelling fashion, you will share your motivation and readiness to pursue advanced studies; steps you have taken to gain professional knowledge and skills; your experience working independently and on teams; and your career goals.

• Describe your personal, educational and/or professional experiences that motivate your decision to pursue advanced study in museums.
• Include specific examples of any professional activities in which you have participated. Present a concise description of the activities, highlight the results and discuss how these activities have prepared you to seek a graduate degree. Specify your role in the activity including the extent to which you worked independently and/or as part of a team. Include leadership and organizational skills learned.
• Describe the contributions of your activity to advancing knowledge in museum related fields as well as the potential for broader societal impacts (ex: tutoring and mentoring students in challenging environments, involvement in professional organizations that serve the community, campus-based student activities).

2.) Graduate Research Plan Statement (2-page maximum):

• Present an original research topic that you would like to pursue in graduate school.
• Cite any undergraduate research including any summer research programs or summer, part-time, or full-time employment that developed your research skills.
• Describe the research idea, your general approach and methodology, as well as any unique resources that may be needed for accomplishing the research goal (e.g., access to national facilities or collections, collaborations, overseas work, etc.).
• You may choose to include important literature citations.
• Address the potential of the research to advance knowledge and understanding within your field, as well as the potential for impact on society.