How is it possible for objects from all over the world to be displayed in one location—a sculpture from ancient Rome, pottery from North America, paintings from France, and a spiritual mask from Africa? Museums are institutions that acquire and exhibit objects from various regions, and educate the public about the collections. The American Association of Museums’ "Code of Ethics for Museums" states that the purpose of a museum is to collect, preserve, and interpret things of this world.

This unit will further explore the function of museums (particularly art museums) the history of these institutions, and museum occupations.