The Stanley offers University of Iowa students a variety of ways to get involved with the museum.

A wide range of programs and related initiatives offer many ways for students to experience the museum, both academically and socially.

Undergraduate internships and graduate assistantships allow students to research the collection, contribute to exhibitions, develop museum-based K–12 curricula, update the collection management system, and work with the collections team.

A rainbow graphic with the text "Art is for everyone"

Stanley Student Challenge

The Stanley student challenge encourages University of Iowa students to attend events at the Stanley Museum of art during Academic Year 2023 - 2024 in order to win a cool custom prize.

A group of students stands in front of a brightly painted wall

Student Blog

This blog outlines the work of student employees, recaps events from a student's POV, and provides a space to showcase the creative and academic work that UI students do in and around the Stanley.

A group of three university students look at a large African mask

Request a tour!

Families, friends, and student organizations can request tours of the Stanley’s collection. Tours typically last one hour, and can be tailored to your group's interests or needs. Schedule your tour today!

A silly graphic image: Herky poses in front of the Stanley Museum of Art, with text beneath reading "Night at the Museum," parodying the popular movies.

Nights at the Museum

The Stanley Museum of Art, with the assistance of its student employees, puts on monthly events for students on Thursday nights when the museum is open late.

The logo for Chill & Create

Chill & Create

This program integrates art viewing, art making and mindfulness strategies to provide UI students with tools to de-stress, manage anxiety, and develop wellness practices.

Two women sit on a red couch leaning over a white table. There is a laptop and beverage on the table and backpacks on the couch and floor.

Study at the Stanley

Every semester during finals week, the Stanley hosts "Study at the Stanley," a drop-in program that encourages students to swing by the lobby to study and take a break in the galleries.

Students sit on stools sketching in front of artworks

Drawing Salons

Robert Caputo, an Iowa City-based painter and sculptor, will lead participants in drawing artworks in the museum's collection. Each session will focus on a different piece, and will begin with an introduction to and discussion of the selected work. 

An Image featuring three people sitting in front of Sam Gilliam's "Red April," with notebooks.

Write at the Stanley

Each monthly session is led by a different talented writer from our area, who will offer a new prompt and approach to ekphrastic writing (writing inspired by visual art). Bring your own notebook and pencil or computer, and leave with the beginning of a newly written piece. Co-sponsored by Iowa City Poetry. 

Female student sitting at a computer

Student Employment

We’re always excited to have passionate individuals join our team. Student job opportunities at the museum are posted on the Handshake job advertisement system as they become available. Check back often!