American Museum Of Natural History Campuses

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) offers a diverse array of educational courses and programs through its Richard Gilder Graduate School and various public education initiatives. These courses focus on natural history, science, and interdisciplinary studies, catering to graduate students, professionals, and lifelong learners.

• Graduate Programs in Comparative Biology: This PhD program emphasizes evolutionary biology, systematics, and biodiversity. Students engage in fieldwork, molecular techniques, and museum-based research, exploring topics like genomics, ecology, and conservation. Courses include Advanced Evolutionary Theory, Phylogenetic Methods, and Field Biology Techniques, preparing scholars for careers in academia and research institutions.
• Earth and Space Sciences PhD: Centered on astrophysics, planetary science, and geology, this program utilizes the museum's Hayden Planetarium and fossil collections. Key courses cover Cosmology, Planetary Formation, Paleoclimatology, and Astrophysics Lab, with hands-on projects involving telescope observations and geological modeling.
• Public Education Courses: For non-degree seekers, AMNH provides adult education classes such as Introduction to Astronomy, Dinosaur Paleontology, and Human Evolution. These interactive sessions feature expert-led lectures, virtual reality exhibits, and specimen handling, fostering public understanding of science.
• K-12 and Family Programs: Specialized courses like Science Explorers and Discovery Squad teach earth science, biology, and environmental studies through hands-on activities, aligning with school curricula. Topics include Ecosystems, Weather and Climate, and Biodiversity Conservation.
• Professional Development Workshops: Offerings for educators and scientists include Museum Curation Methods, Digital Specimen Imaging, and Science Communication Skills. These short courses enhance teaching and research capabilities using AMNH's vast collections.
• Specialized Seminars: Annual series on emerging topics like Climate Change Impacts, Microbial Ecology, and Space Exploration integrate guest lectures from global experts, encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue.

Overall, AMNH's courses blend rigorous academic training with public outreach, leveraging world-class exhibits and research facilities to advance knowledge in natural sciences. Participants gain access to libraries, labs, and field opportunities worldwide, promoting discovery and stewardship of the natural world. With a commitment to inclusivity, these programs support diverse learners in exploring the planet's past, present, and future.