BA (Hons) Conservation: Books & Paper

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Conservation: Books & Paper program provides comprehensive training in the conservation and restoration of paper artifacts, parchment, manuscripts, and books. Through project-based learning and collaboration with cultural institutions, students develop practical skills and knowledge in all phases of book and paper conservation practice, preparing them for careers in galleries, libraries, museums, and other institutions.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Focus: Conservation and restoration of paper artifacts, parchment, manuscripts, and books.
• Curriculum: Covers a wide range of artifacts, from printed paper to delicate watercolors, illuminated manuscripts, maps, and books of various materials and construction.
• Project-based Learning: Students complete complex live projects, working on cultural paper artifacts or books lent by leading public and private institutions as well as individual collectors.
• Comprehensive Approach: Teaches students to manage all phases of book and paper conservation practice, including examination, state-of-the-art analysis, proposal and documentation, treatment itself, and future care recommendations.
• Level: BA (Hons)

Outline:

• Duration: 3 years (full-time)
• Structure:
• Year 1: Introduction to paper and book conservation principles, history, and materials.
• Year 2: Advanced conservation techniques, scientific analysis, and treatment of specific artifact types.
• Year 3: Independent research project, professional practice, and ethical considerations in conservation.
• Modules:
• History and theory of book and paper conservation
• Conservation science
• Book and paper examination and documentation
• Book and paper conservation techniques
• Treatment of specific materials (e.g., parchment, watercolors)
• Conservation ethics and professional practice
• Research methods in book and paper conservation

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment: Throughout the program, students are assessed through coursework, practical projects, presentations, and written assignments.
• Final year project: Students undertake an independent research project on a chosen topic related to book and paper conservation.
• Assessment criteria: Evaluates students' knowledge, understanding, practical skills, critical thinking, research abilities, and communication skills.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods: Lectures, seminars, workshops, practical demonstrations, and individual supervision.
• Faculty: Experienced and qualified conservators with expertise in various aspects of book and paper conservation.
• Unique approaches:
• Strong emphasis on practical training and hands-on experience.
• Collaboration with leading cultural institutions and individual collectors.
• Access to state-of-the-art conservation facilities and equipment.

Careers:

• Potential career paths: Book and paper conservator, rare book librarian, archivist, museum curator, private conservator, researcher.
• Career opportunities: Galleries, libraries, archives, museums, auction houses, private collections, commercial conservation studios.
• Graduate outcomes: Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the field of book and paper conservation, with many securing employment in prestigious institutions.

Other:

• Diploma of Higher Education option: A two-year diploma program covering the same specialist syllabus as the first two years of the BA (Hons) program.
• Validation: Currently validated by Ravensbourne University London, but will be validated by Arts University Bournemouth from September 2024.
• Open Days: The school offers open days for prospective students to learn more about the program and facilities.
• Fees and Funding: Information about tuition fees and funding options can be found on the program webpage.

Additional Notes:

• The provided context mainly focuses on the overview and program details.
• Specific information about assessment criteria and individual module descriptions may require further research from official program documents or contacting the school directly.