Chris Keady

Lifelong Learning Programmer

Course: MA Art Gallery and Museum Studies, Full Time, 2012-13

The MA Art Gallery and Museum Studies course equipped me with the knowledge, skills and experience to begin my career within the Museum Sector with confidence. Coming from a Fine Art Undergraduate course, I began my time in Manchester knowing only that I wanted to go to work each day in a Museum. I didn't know in what capacity, or even what my full range of options were, at this stage. The MA gave me an in-depth understanding of the sheer variety of employment options within the sector, and allowed me to academically pursue and research several areas of this before settling on one section for my extended dissertation research.

A work placement at the Whitworth Art Gallery, with some truly inspirational mentorship and guidance, solidified my determination to pursue Full time employment within the sector. The MA provided a critical and academically informed understanding of the decisions and processes within the Museum which enhanced my understanding of what works within the sector, and why.

Upon completing this course in 2013, I was able to secure a role working for the NHS as an Arts Co-ordinator. Following this temporary position, I have recently begun working across Derby Museums as a Lifelong Learning Programmer - co-ordinating the public programme for three museums. The time spent at The University of Manchester provided me with a network of fellow museum professionals and advisors - which has proved so far to be a solid base for this early stage of my career.