Hello. I am interested in hearing the opinions of museum professionals as to whether or not it is necessary to have a Master's degree in Museum Studies in order to become a registar or curator. I have an undergraduate degree in Anthropology and I have a variety of museum experience, in the form of volunteer work, an internship, and a part-time paid position as Curatorial Assistant. I am currently planning to begin the Certificate in Museum Studies through Harvard Extemsion in September 1997, but I do not want to do this if it will turn out that I need to have a Master's degree, rather than only a certificate. I have talked to a few professionals at institutions that I have worked for, and for the most part the answers have been the same. Those people who have advanced degrees tell me that it is necessary to have a Master's degree, and those who don't say that you can, in fact, work your way up the ladder without an advanced degree (or with only a certificate). I am very interested in hearing others opinions, as although I am not at all reluctant to further my education, I am $35,000 in debt from my undergraduate work, and therefore I do not particulartly want to spend more money on a degree that may not even be necessary. I understand that having an advanced degree will probably enable me to get to my desired end faster than if I don't have a degree, but I am willing to wait a little while and work my way up, if becoming a curator or registrar with only a certificate in M.S. is something that is feasible. I look forward to hearing from anyone who wishes to respond. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Ariane P.