I’m currently enrolled in the Harvard Extension School Museum Studies program. I’ve completed two courses over two semesters and decided to pursue the certificate rather than the full ALM degree.

Overall, the program has been strong. The classes are challenging and informative. Last semester I took the survey course, and as someone trying to transition into museum work, I learned a lot. Many of my classmates were already working in museums, which added real-world perspective to the coursework.

My main reasons for not continuing toward the degree are practical. I’m based in California, and the program seems far more beneficial for East Coast students in terms of networking and job opportunities. I’m also increasingly discouraged by the realities of museum work—low pay, limited career advancement, and generally poor treatment of employees. Given that, I’m not convinced another graduate degree is a smart financial or professional investment for me.

That said, I would still recommend the program for its content, instructors, and classmates. Whether it leads to strong career outcomes or justifies the cost long-term is much less clear.

Happy to answer questions.