MSc
MSc Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects (Dissertation)
Combining specialist conservation skills with teaching in analysis and research. This research focused MSc allows you to explore a conservation topic in depth.
How to apply Apply via UCAS
Course details
Start date
Degree Type
MSc
Program Code
F4KG09
Course length
2 years full-time, 3 years part-time
Typical offer
Overview
The MSc in Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects (Dissertation) combines theoretical knowledge with specialist practical skills. It equips you with the investigative skills to answer some of the complex conservation and archaeological questions posed by ancient and historic artefacts and explores ways to safeguard valuable objects for future generations to enjoy. This research-rich course, which is studied over two years full-time or three years part-time, is designed for those interested in a career in conservation research or preventive conservation. It will also suit those with conservation experience who are interested in exploring the field in greater depth. While we draw students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, they share a number of essential traits, those of manual dexterity, a knowledge of chemistry and the desire and commitment to work with museum objects. Taught by qualified conservators, the course includes core modules in the theory and methods of conservation, conservation skills and practice, artefact studies and the care of collections. The final year of the course is dedicated to the dissertation which focuses on an aspect of object conservation.
Course details
Start date
Degree Type
MSc
Program Code
F4KG09
Course length
2 years full-time, 3 years part-time
Typical offer
What you'll study
Core modules
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Artefact Studies
provides an understanding of the theory, practice and status of artefact studies, with a particular focus on museum collections and archives. You will learn about the physical properties and the traditional production and use of materials and products and also develop skills in handling, analysing, interpreting and recording objects by examining and comparing collections from different periods and cultures.
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Care of Collections (Conservation)
introduces the concept of preventative conservation and the issues involved with caring for collections. It provides a detailed understanding of the environmental factors that cause deterioration and presents ways they can be monitored and tackled.
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Conservation Skills
is a practical module that gives you the opportunity to work on archaeological objects and carry out a range of laboratory, fieldwork, documentation, cleaning, adhesion and replication activities. You will learn to examine and successfully treat archaeological objects and to document the impacts of their interventions in preparation for later practical coursework.
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Conservation Theory and Method
provides the knowledge to professionally plan the conservation of archaeological and museum objects. You will develop an understanding of the evolution of conservation, its organisation, present day aims and methods used. You will also consider how ethical factors influence the approach to work.
Optional modules
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You will also take one optional module drawn from a list of potential modules that could support your research objectives. You will decide with the course convenor which optional module will be most appropriate.
Core modules
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Dissertation
The sees you undertake a major piece of work in conservation or object analysis. You will engage in advanced level research; practising, developing and demonstrating your research skills in conservation or object analysis. The dissertation is an opportunity to explore published literature on a research topic, develop a research design, collect data or information, critically evaluate it and draw your own conclusions.
Learning
The first year of the course is delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars, practical classes and site visits, with contact time during the first two terms typically comprising 4-5 hours a week of lectures, 6 hours of practical work including seminars, 3 hours of structured self-development learning and up to 9 hours of conservation skills working in the conservation laboratory. Lectures provide key information on a particular topic and identify areas for discussion and debate. Seminars and practical sessions then provide opportunities for you to further develop your knowledge and skills, based on the knowledge gained from lectures and your own independent study. The Department also hosts a programme of weekly research seminars linked to topics covered on the MA, which will give you further insight into the subject. You will have plenty of opportunities to spend time in the conservation laboratory, learning about methods of conservation, developing skills in handling and analysing artefacts and learning how to make decisions to help safeguard this material for the future as your ability to work independently grows. The dissertation is completed during the second year under the supervision of a dedicated subject specialist. It develops advanced research skills in an aspect of conservation or artefact studies, in which you are interested.Assessment
Assessments are rigorous and continuous throughout the course. Assessment methods vary and are designed to demonstrate your skills and understanding of the coursework. They include essays, reports, exams and portfolio write ups based on your practical work. The degree culminates in writing a dissertation, which will be focused on artefact analysis, preventive conservation, or applications for real-world conservation problems.Entry requirements
Fees & Funding
Year 1 Home students£17,000 per yearEU students£36,000 per yearIsland students£17,000 per yearInternational students£36,000 per year Year 2 Home students£5,750 per yearEU students£12,250 per yearIsland students£5,750 per yearInternational students£12,250 per year
Department Information
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The Department of Archaeology is home to one of the largest postgraduate communities in Europe who benefit from world class academic teaching and leading-edge facilities to be able to pursue their passion for studying the past, interpreting the present and understanding the future. The wide-ranging courses are research-led and delivered by staff who are recognised experts in specialisms that span world, European and British archaeology from the last ice age to the post-medieval period. Our taught courses provide the ideal grounding for further academic research at a higher level but also offer essential preparation for entering a professional career. They include MA Museum and Artefact Studies, MA International Cultural Heritage Management, and MA Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects, all of which have strong vocational themes. The MSc Bioarchaeology and MA Archaeology offer ideal preparation for research careers and specialisation and our unique MSc Human Bioarchaeology and Palaeopathology and MSc Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology are ideal for postgraduates nurturing both academic and professional aspirations. We welcome applications from researchers seeking MRes and PhD qualifications tailored to specific interests, and we offer strong developmental support. With our expertise in a wide range of archaeological disciplines and significant research activity across the globe, our aim is to create a top-class learning environment that is vibrant and supportive and enables you to make a difference in your chosen field. For more information see our department pages.
Read moreFacilities
The Department of Archaeology has a reputation for excellence and connections across the world. We are home to state-of-the-art laboratories, specialist technology and some of the best library resources in the UK. We have project rooms with interactive technology, teaching laboratories, a computer suite, a photographic studio and scientific research laboratories in DNA, conservation, isotopes, environmental archaeology, luminescence dating, palaeopathology and bone chemistry, many of which are used as learning resources for out postgraduate community. Taught courses and researchers alike benefit from our status as co-owners of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the extensive range of library, museum and artefact collection resources on offer at Durham. The Department of Archaeology can be found in the Dawson Building, which is ideally situated at the heart of the Durham city campus, next to the Bill Bryson Library and the Palatine Centre.
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