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Career in Chinese or Korean antique textiles?

I'm currently in college studying for a Bachelor of Science in Geology, but I'm really interested in a career in antiques. I'm particularly interested in being an appraiser or conservator for Chinese or Korean antiques, especially textiles. However, I have absolutely no idea how to get there. I suspect I would need a degree in either Art History or Museum Studies, and probably some sort of certification or a graduate degree, but I don't know anything beyond that. Which major would serve my purpose better, Art History or Museum Studies? What are some schools that offer these majors? How would I focus in on Chinese or Korean antique textiles in particular? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Public Comments

1. I think you would do well with a degree in either Museum Studies or a masters in Public History. I would suggest speaking with some conservators at museums that you admire. Ask them where they went to school, and what they would recommend for the modern scholar. Keep in mind that many of them are older, and the educational requirements have increased significantly. You may also call other universities and speak with their Museum Studies or Public History director and ask about this potential career.
2. Jessi, a couple of links for you to consider. First, there is an up and coming Asian Art event coming here (see link) in Dallas Texas in September of 2011. I would attempt to make some contact and network a bit - networking as a student is always beneficial because people feel only happy to talk about themselves, their careers, and have suggestions for you to follow up on within your own ability and time. See: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Crow-Collection-of-Asian-Art.html Second, here is a link to the Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC. Open this link and to the right near the top is a section entitled "Interns" - go to this link and see how you could gain an internship to promote your knowledge and gain a career in the process while earning quantifiable experience. See: http://www.si.edu/ Lastly, there is a definite need for good people such as yourself in this type of career field. We need people to promote the arts and you have a good responder above me that had some helpful suggestions for your future education. The Chinese and Korean cultures have historically produced some of the world's most important art and this quite frankly sounds fascinating. Have a great day and best of luck! Gerry