Museum Studies, MLitt

Program Overview

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The Museum Studies MLitt program at the University of Aberdeen immerses students in museum theory and practice through hands-on engagement with the University's extensive museum collections. The program equips students with foundational curatorial skills, cultivates an appreciation for contemporary museum issues, and prepares them for successful careers in the heritage sector.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Museum Studies, MLitt

This one-year postgraduate program delves into museum theory and practice through engagement with the University’s extensive museum collections. The program boasts a comprehensive curriculum that covers historical and contemporary roles of museums in society, public engagement with research, and practical museum work experience.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with foundational curatorial skills.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in the heritage sector.

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Description:

The program utilizes the University’s rich museum collections to provide students with firsthand experience in museum research, curation, and management. Through engaging courses like “Researching Museum Collections,” “Museum Professional Practice,” “The Museum Idea,” and “Navigating the Museum Workplace,” students acquire a comprehensive understanding of museums and their significance in society. Further, they can tailor their learning through electives in areas like “Museums and the Digital World” and “Decolonising Museums,” tackling the most pressing issues within the field. The program culminates in a choice of three options:

• Curating an Exhibition: Students collaborate with museum staff to design and curate an online exhibition using the University’s collections.
• Museum Studies Dissertation: Students conduct in-depth research on a chosen topic and write a dissertation, a path recommended for those aiming for further academic pursuits.
• Museum Studies Placement: Students gain practical experience by undertaking a 20-day placement within a partnered museum, putting their skills to use in a real-world setting.

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Assessment:

The program employs diverse assessment methods to mirror the skills required in the heritage sector. These include:

• Drafting mock grant applications.
• Creating a career portfolio.
• Honing research and academic writing skills.
These assessments equip students with the tools and knowledge for success in various heritage-related careers.

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Outline:

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Stage 1:

• Researching Museum Collections (AT5043): Focuses on researching and interpreting museum artifacts, preparing students for in-depth study and analysis.
• Optional Courses:
• Museums and the Digital World (AT5050):
Examines the impact of digital technologies on museums and their audiences.
• Decolonising Museums (AT5053): Addresses the complexities of decolonization within the museum context.

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Stage 2:

• Compulsory Courses:
• AT5555 Navigating the Museum Workplace: Career Portfolio Project (30 credit points):
Helps students build a professional portfolio, simulating the demands of the museum work environment.
• The Museum Idea (AT5526): Explores the history and philosophy of museums, connecting them to contemporary practices.

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Stage 3:

• Compulsory Courses:
• AT5044 Museum Practice (15 credit points):
Further develops skills in researching and interpreting museum artifacts.
• Researching Museum Collections (AT5043): Provides an opportunity to conduct an in-depth study of a chosen artifact.
• Optional Courses:
• Museums and the Digital World (AT5050):
Continues exploration of the relationship between museums and digital technologies.
• Decolonising Museums (AT5053): Offers a deeper understanding of decolonization strategies within museums.

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Teaching:

The program combines various teaching methods to deliver a dynamic learning experience:

• Field Trips: Hands-on experience in museum settings.
• Lectures: Expert-led sessions covering key museum-related topics.
• Research: Engaging in independent research projects.
• Workshops: Practical skill development sessions.

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Faculty:

The program features a dedicated team of museum professionals and academic specialists from various disciplines, including anthropology, archaeology, and education. Guest lectures by experts from diverse backgrounds further enrich the learning experience.

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Unique Approach:

The program's emphasis on utilizing the University’s extensive museum collections sets it apart, providing students with unparalleled access to real-world artifacts and research opportunities. Additionally, the program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their learning through a variety of optional courses and project choices, catering to individual interests and career aspirations.

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Careers:

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Suitable for:

• Those aiming for careers in museums, galleries, and heritage institutions.
• Individuals interested in further research in Museum Studies or an academic career in related fields.
• Professionals seeking to develop skills in communicating academic work to the public.

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Potential Career Paths:

• Collections Management
• Curatorship
• Exhibition Development
• Program Management
• Museum Research

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Outcomes:

• Graduates have secured positions at institutions like the British Museum, Royal Collection Trust, National Trust, Juneau Douglas City Museum, and Gordon Highlanders Museum.
• The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the museum sector, offering a solid foundation for successful careers.

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Other:

• The program values public engagement and aims to instill these values in its graduates.
• The program is suitable for both those seeking a vocational education and those pursuing an academic career.
• The program offers numerous opportunities to develop transferable skills like project management, teamwork, and research, applicable to various roles and sectors.

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EU / International students: £23,800 UK: £11,100