Student Profiles
Rachel Carney
MA in Museum Studies, 2007/8
I decided to do the MA in Museum Studies because having an MA is a requirement for many museum jobs. I hoped that it would also give me some of the skills and experience that I would need for a job in this sector.
I decided to do my MA at Newcastle because, of all the courses that I looked into, the one at Newcastle seemed to be the most practical, teaching skills that would be needed in museum jobs, such as how to write a report. I was impressed by the professional experience of the lecturers, and on the open day everyone was really friendly and welcoming.
The many study trips and all the group work meant that it was easy to get to know people! The trips were good fun as well as useful for the course.
My favourite module was the Interpretation and Exhibitions module; a group of eleven of us worked together to produce a small exhibition in Newcastle’s Discovery Museum. This was a challenge, as we only had four weeks in which to complete the project, but it was also invaluable as a learning experience. I enjoyed writing the panels and the object labels, and we were taught how to produce a website, which was really interesting.
The best part of the course, however, is the two-month work placement, which gives you the chance to put all your newly learned skills into practice. There was a huge variety of placements to choose from, in Newcastle, around the UK and some even abroad. I chose to do a placement at Hampton Court Palace in London, working in the interpretation department, which has been a really interesting experience.
Newcastle is full of culture: museums and galleries everywhere! The nearby coast has been good for occasional days out, and overall I would say that it is a very friendly place. I have been living in Fenham which is not one of the main student areas, but the houses are very cheap there, and the buses into town are quick and not too expensive. Most other areas of Newcastle are on the metro route which is very handy. And there are plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs for a night out.
When I finish I hope to find a job in the museum and heritage sector, specifically in exhibition work or interpretation. I would love to stay in Newcastle if a job comes up there.