Carol,

     I've asked a similar question to this listserv on a couple different
     occasions and didn't receive any response.  I graduated with my MA in
     museum studies from the George Washington University in 1996, but have
     had little luck getting a job in the museum field.  There are more
     museum studies grads than jobs in the D.C. area.  I decided to enroll
     in the GWU appraisal studies program in the fine and decorative arts
     for personal fulfillment and the hope that it might open up more doors
     for me in the job market.  I don't know that the certificate will help
     you get a job for an art dealer, auction house or commercial gallery.
     I'd be very interested in any responses you may get from the list.

     I'm about halfway through the program having just completed the four
     American Society of Appraisers (ASA) courses.  Overall, I've been very
     satisfied with the program and especially with the ASA courses.  One
     thing you'll definitely learn that appraising is much more work than
     it appears to be on the Antiques Roadshow!  I wish you luck taking the
     summer session.  The ASA courses are VERY intensive.  I personally
     couldn't imagine taking all 4 ASA courses plus the connoisseurship
     courses over a few weeks.  I found that I really needed the time off
     between classes to absorb all of the material.  Fortunately I live in
     the D.C. area so I can spread things out.  Please do not hesitate to
     contact me off-list with any questions you may have about the program.

     Laura McMann Mahoney
     [log in to unmask]

     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     Hello,
     Following the recent string of messages about the value of higher
     education, I have a question about a summer certificate program in
     appraisal studies offered at George Washington University.
     I'm in my last year of a MA art history/ Masters in Library Science
     program and considering applying for this summer program.
     My career interests are in art librarianship, but I am also interested
     in working for an art dealer, auction house, or commercial gallery.
     My question is this:  would earning a certificate in art appraisal
     studies make me a more attractive job candidate for any of these
     employers?  Aside from gratifying my own personal interests, it would
     be nice to hear whether or not this program has value in the
     jobmarket. Apologies if this listserv isn't quite the right
     audience... I would very much appreciate any insights or direction you
     can provide.
     Thank you!
     (*_*)

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     *         Caroline Louise Seigel             *
     *   School of Library & Information Science  *
     *           Indiana University               *
     *           [log in to unmask]              * * * * *
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