Archaeology: Museum Studies

This specialisation started in September 2011, and offers students the opportunity to explore a range of different approaches and issues in cultural politics and cultural theory as relevant to modern museum practices. A specialisation in Museum Studies in Leiden is especially attractive because of the long standing traditions in academic and museum work.
Three large national museums (Antiquities, Natural History, and Ethnology) were founded in Leiden at the beginning of the 19th century. Museum practices and academic research have always been closely related. Many research programmes involve both researchers from the University as well as researchers from the Leiden museums. In addition, the museums have been more and more involved in ethical issues concerning ownership and mobility of collections and politics of museums and collecting. The unique combination of practical experience and high-quality academic research offers students a dynamic, contemporary environment in a 200-year tradition.

Staff: prof. dr. R.B. Halbertsma, prof. dr. P. ter Keurs, dr. L.N.K. van Broekhoven, dr. M. Francozo.