| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA International Conservation Studies program at the University of York is a one-year full-time or two-to-three-year part-time postgraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary for a career in international conservation. The program combines lectures, seminars, field trips, workshops, and site visits with individual research and a final project dissertation, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of contemporary issues and practices in the field. Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in the public, academic, and private sectors, as well as in international development and archaeological research.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
MA International Conservation Studies
is a full-time, one year or part-time, two or three years postgraduate program offered at the University of York. This program is designed for individuals who want to develop their knowledge, understanding and practical skills for a career in the international conservation field. It focuses on applying the latest advancements and best practices in conservation, as well as fostering innovative solutions for heritage preservation.
The key objectives are:
- Engage with heritage in an interdisciplinary context.
- Develop critical thinking skills for analyzing contemporary challenges in conservation.
- Master advanced scholarship techniques and disciplinary knowledge in cultural heritage conservation.
- Conduct research and complete an original, independent project .
- Gain experience in sustainable building practices .
This interdisciplinary program helps graduates pursue diverse careers related to:
- Cultural Heritage
- International Development
- Archaeological Research
- Museum Studies
- Environmental Management The program's curriculum combines lectures, seminars, field trips, workshops and site visits with individual research and a final project dissertation.
Outline
The program consists of two core modules, two optional modules in semester one and two, a core placement module in semester two, and an 8,000-word dissertation in the summer semester, totaling 180 credits.
Core Modules:
- Building Conservation Projects: Provides hands-on experience with sustainable conservation practices and building restoration techniques.
- Histories of Conservation: Explores the historical development of the conservation field, different approaches, and ethical frameworks.
- Curated Placement Module: Offers a chance to apply learned knowledge and gain practical experience in a real-world conservation project.
- Sustainable Conservation Challenges: Examines contemporary issues and promotes sustainable approaches for long-term heritage preservation.
Optional Modules (Examples):
- Archaeology of Colonialism
- Digital Creativity
- Presenting Historic Houses
- Sustainability Definitions & Assessment Methods
- Understanding Sustainability as Historical Change Students can also choose from additional 45 modules offered within the Department of Archaeology, expanding their understanding of diverse aspects related to cultural heritage.
Dissertations (Examples):
- Design and reconstruction for historic buildings from an architect's perspective
- Authenticity and integrity considerations for natural disaster reconstruction using traditional materials
- Community engagement in heritage preservation through a Bhutan case study
- Exploring sustainable conservation methods in Chaco Culture National Park
- Investigating bungalow architecture in Bangalore's British cantonment
- Examining sustainability and long-term heritage outcomes through building materials
Assessment
The assessment methods include:
- Essays
- Reports
- Project Proposals
- Dissertations Specific assessment criteria and expectations will vary depending on the individual modules. However, the overall focus is to demonstrate comprehensive understanding, critical analysis, effective communication and application of knowledge.
Teaching
Teaching methods:
- Lectures by leading experts provide theoretical foundations.
- Seminars facilitate discussions and critical analysis.
- Workshops and field trips provide hands-on learning experiences and practical skills development.
- Site visits offer direct exposure to heritage sites and ongoing projects.
- Supervision and guidance: Individual support is available throughout the research and dissertation phases from faculty and external specialists.
- Guest lecturers: Share contemporary perspectives and expertise within the conservation and heritage sector.
Careers
Graduates of the MA International Conservation Studies program are prepared for diverse career opportunities, such as:
Public Sector:
- Heritage Consultant
- Conservation Officer
- Planning Officer
- Local Government Roles
Academic Sector
- Higher education researchers
- Lecturers
Private sector:
- Building Surveyor
Additional transferrable skills developed throughout the program:
- High-level written & oral communication
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork & project management
- Time management
Other
Additional points:
- Students have access to the department library, online resources and databases for research and study.
- Field trip fees are covered by the department.
- Optional placements allow for practical experience and network development.
- 10% Masters fee discount for York undergraduate graduates.
Student Testimonials (extracts):
- Program is enjoyable and fulfilling due to the supportive community.
- Content blends practical and theoretical aspects of conservation, enhancing its relevance to working environments.
- Opportunities to study abroad exist through partnerships with external institutions.
Overall:
This program provides a comprehensive and rigorous understanding of contemporary issues and practices within the international conservation field, preparing graduates to pursue diverse career opportunities and contribute meaningfully to heritage preservation efforts worldwide.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
Annual tuition fees for 2024/25 Study modeUK (home)International and EU Full-time (1 year) £10,590£23,900 Part-time (2 years)This is the year 1 fee. Fees for future years are subject to confirmation. £5,295£11,950 Part-time (3 years)This is the year 1 fee. Fees for future years are subject to confirmation. £3,530£7,967 Students on a Student Visa are not currently permitted to study part-time at York. For courses which are longer than one year, the tuition fees quoted are for the first year of study. UK (home) fees may increase in subsequent years (up to a maximum of 2%). International fees may increase in subsequent years in line with the prevailing Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate (up to a maximum of 10%).
