| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-27 | 2023-09-01 |
| 2024-01-18 | 2023-11-24 |
| 2024-04-10 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA in Decorative Arts and Historic Interiors, offered by the University of Buckingham and the Wallace Collection, provides a unique blend of academic rigor and hands-on study. Students delve into the development of decorative arts and interiors in France and Britain, gaining comprehensive knowledge and skills through in-gallery teaching, study trips, and a professional practice project. The program prepares graduates for careers in museums, galleries, auction houses, interior design, academia, and research.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
MA in Decorative Arts and Historic Interiors:
This program, offered collaboratively by the University of Buckingham and the Wallace Collection, offers a unique learning experience focused on decorative arts and historic interiors. It combines academic rigor with hands-on study of furniture, silver, textiles, and ceramics within the context of historic interiors.
Objectives:
- Equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in the field of decorative arts and historic interiors.
- Develop critical thinking and research abilities through engagement with original objects and archival materials.
- Foster connoisseurship through close examination and analysis of decorative arts within historic settings.
- Prepare students for careers in museums, galleries, auction houses, interior design, academia, and research.
Description:
This program utilizes the outstanding collections of the Wallace Collection and the Victoria and Albert Museum, alongside the expertise of curatorial staff and renowned specialists, to provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. Students benefit from:
- In-gallery teaching and hands-on study of decorative arts.
- Frequent trips to museums and historic houses in London and surrounding areas.
- A week-long study trip to Paris, exploring significant collections and meeting with curators and archivists.
- A professional practice project, allowing students to gain practical experience in museums or galleries.
- Individual research culminating in a dissertation, completed under expert supervision.
Outline:
Course Content:
The program delves into the development of decorative arts and interiors in France and Britain, spanning from the 17th century to the present day.
Course Structure:
- Full-time: Two days per week across three terms, with additional study trips.
- Part-time: Available (one day per week over two years), subject to program director's approval.
Schedule:
- Term 1: British and French Decorative Arts & Historic Interiors (1660-1790).
- Term 2: 19th-century Decorative Arts, Revivalism, Collecting, and a Professional Practice Project.
- French Decorative Arts & Historic Interiors 1660-c.1790: Delves into the evolution of French decorative arts and their integration within historic interiors.
- Professional Practice Project: Provides hands-on experience in museums or galleries through an exhibition planning or historic interior restoration proposal.
- Dissertation: Offers the opportunity for in-depth research on a chosen topic within the field of decorative arts and historic interiors.
Assessment:
Assessment methods include:
- Written examinations
- Essays
- Oral presentations
- Professional Practice Project
- Dissertation
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- In-gallery teaching
- Study trips
Faculty:
- University of Buckingham academic staff
- Wallace Collection curatorial staff
- Experts from institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum, and the Soane Museum
- Renowned independent scholars
Unique Approaches:
- Strong emphasis on in-gallery teaching and hands-on learning.
- Access to renowned museum collections and expert guidance.
- Opportunities for professional practice through the Project and potential placements.
- Focus on developing connoisseurship and critical thinking skills.
Careers:
Career Paths:
- Museum curator
- Gallery director
- Auction house specialist
- Interior designer
- Academic researcher
- Antiques dealer
- Heritage consultant
Career Opportunities:
- Royal Collection
- Wallace Collection
- National Trust
- English Heritage
- Christie's
- Leading museums and galleries worldwide
- Academia
- Research institutions
Outcomes:
- Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience to pursue successful careers in various fields related to decorative arts and historic interiors.
Other:
- The program is suitable for both individuals seeking professional careers and those with a personal interest in the subject.
- A limited number of part-time placements with museums and heritage organizations are available for high-performing students.
- The program is highly regarded, as evidenced by a feature in The Guardian and testimonials from alumni. You are encouraged to contact the University of Buckingham or the Wallace Collection for the most up-to-date information and details.
- UK: £13,840
- INT: £22,144
University of Buckingham
Overview:
The University of Buckingham is a private university located in Buckingham, England. It is known for its two-year degree programs and its focus on personalized learning. The university has been recognized for its high student satisfaction, teaching quality, and graduate prospects.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university offers a vibrant campus experience with a range of activities and events. Students can participate in campus tours, attend public events, and join taster days to experience the university's teaching style. The university also provides accommodation options for students.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Two-year degree programs:
Students can graduate in just two years, saving time and money.Personalized learning:
The university offers small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty.High student satisfaction:
The university consistently ranks highly for student satisfaction.Excellent teaching quality:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching.Strong graduate prospects:
The university has a strong track record of preparing graduates for successful careers.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Accounting & Finance
- Business
- Computing
- Criminology
- Digital Media & Journalism
- Economics
- Education
- English Literature
- Entrepreneurship
- Foundation
- History & History of Art
- International Studies
- Law
- Medicine & Health
- Military History
- Philosophy
- Politics
- Psychology
- Security & Intelligence
Other:
The university offers a 5% discount on student accommodation for bookings made before September 23rd.
Entry Requirements:
For all applicants
- A first or second class honours degree from a recognised university, or
- A recognised professional qualification or relevant work experience.
For mature students
- Age is no barrier to learning, and all applicants with the required qualifications are welcome.
- The London-based MAs attract a diverse range of students, including those in full-time employment and retirees.
- Current students range in age from 21 to 75.
For international students
- International applications are welcome.
Selection process
- Candidates apply online and are assessed based on their supporting documents by the Programme Director.
- Most students are interviewed, in person, via Microsoft Teams, What's App, or by telephone.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The required level of English proficiency may vary depending on the specific program and country of origin. However, the MA Decorative Arts and Historic Interiors program usually requires:
- IELTS: Overall score of 7.0 with no sub-score below 6.5.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 100 with no sub-score below 25.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 67 with no sub-score below 61. In some cases, the program may accept other equivalent language proficiency tests.
