Having earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in both English and Art History at the University of California at Davis, Werness-Rude (then Werness) completed her Master of Arts and Doctoral degrees at the University of Texas at Austin. Maline specializes in the study of Latin American art and architecture. Within this broad field, she particularly focuses on Mesoamerica, the Maya, and ancient Maya ceramics. Secondary art historical areas of interest include the Nineteenth Century as well as crafting traditions and moments of cultural exchange.