ObjectivesThis MA centres on the conservation of wood, metal and architectural interiors decorated surfaces - and as such, is unique within the UK. It aims to provide you with an environment that develops both your practical skills, and a sound ethical approach to the cultural treatment of wood and metal objects as well as architectural interiors. The department houses a range of excellent conservation facilities, including well-resourced workshops, laboratories and studios. You also have the benefits of studying in a city that houses internationally renowned museums and arguably the finest centres of conservation excellence in the world. The department enjoys close links with the conservation and heritage industries including the National Trusts of both England and USA, many national museums and a wide range of commercial practices at home and abroad. The conservation team are all engaged in research and staff development, including maintaining or promoting the Frederick Parker Collection of chairs, which is housed in our Commercial Road building. Staff are also engaged in many live projects which provides useful links when helping you to find suitable placements and employment, and also when locating artefacts for your projects and coursework. The course will appeal to graduates of conservation wishing to further enhance their knowledge and expertise, as well as those within the profession wishing to engage in professional development.
Entry requirementsThe minimum entry requirement is normally a lower second class Honours degree in a relevant subject such as conservation or restoration. Applications from those with no first degree but who have previous appropriate experience will also be considered.
Academic titleMA Conservation of Decorative Surfaces
Course descriptionCourse structure
The course consists of six essential modules and a dissertation or conservation project. The modules are:
-Research Methods
-Museums and Material Culture
-Care of Collections
-Preventive Conservation Project
-Project Development
-Examination and Analysis
Assessment
A range of assessment methods are used, including coursework and examinations.
Career opportunities
Successful completion of this course will qualify graduates to enter museum conservation practice as studio professionals or as environmental specialists engaged in the care of collections. Opportunities also exist in the curatorial branch of the museums profession and in buildings management for heritage organisations such as National Trust and English Heritage. Other career possibilities include exhibition co-ordination and archive management. You can also progress to MPhil and PhD programmes.
Attendance & duration
Full-time: 1 year, 2 days a week
Part-time (day): 2 years, 1-2 days a week