Museology Education In The GCC States: Emerging Directions And Missed Opportunities

Abstract

This study aims to illuminate the landscape of museology education in higher institutions across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, while also uncovering the challenges these institutions face in offering specialized programs and courses for aspiring museum professionals.

Carried out as a descriptive and analytical inquiry, this study entailed a thorough examination of the academic provisions within the field of museology across both governmental and non-governmental universities within the GCC states. Moreover, it involved an evaluation of GCC museums, considering factors such as their geographical distribution, thematic coverage, and how these aspects shaped the educational direction of GCC universities concerning museology.

Key findings of the study highlighted that currently, there is only one dedicated academic program for museology across all universities in the GCC states. Other than this, only a limited number of courses are available, typically nested within broader archaeology or history programs, rather than comprehensive museum studies courses. These offerings often fall short of providing more than rudimentary introductions to museology. Furthermore, the study exposed the absence of museology curricula in some history and archaeology departments within public universities. A significant factor influencing this landscape is the scarcity of employment opportunities, leading universities to hesitate in establishing dedicated departments or programs in museology.

The study also presented forward-looking recommendations to strengthen museology education in the region. These suggestions are aligned with the evolving political, social, economic, and cultural dynamics within the GCC states, aiming to foster cultural sustainability and enrich heritage management curricula.