Master of Heritage Conservation

Program Overview

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The Master of Heritage Conservation program at the University of Auckland equips students with the theoretical and practical knowledge to excel in the heritage industry. Through a blended learning approach, students can specialize in either built heritage or museums and cultural heritage, gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork and project work. The program prepares graduates for leadership roles in heritage conservation, with potential career paths including conservation consultant, curator, and heritage adviser.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the theoretical and practical knowledge of heritage conservation.
• Prepare graduates for careers in the heritage industry.
• Upskill professionals working in the heritage industry with a formal qualification.

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Description:

This interdisciplinary program, offered by the University of Auckland, delves into the intricacies of heritage conservation. Students can choose to specialize in either built heritage or museums and cultural heritage, depending on their interests and career aspirations. The program offers a blended learning approach, allowing students to choose between online and in-person learning formats. This flexibility caters to students based in Auckland and beyond.

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Outline

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Program Structure:

• Available in both 120-point and 180-point options.
• Students can pursue the program full-time or part-time, depending on their individual needs.
• Both specializations follow a defined course structure, with core courses and electives.
• Students engage in research projects and complete either dissertations or thesis, depending on their chosen specialization.

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Built Heritage:

• Core courses focus on heritage processes, assessment, conservation planning, materials, diagnosis, and adaptation.
• Students can select elective courses from various disciplines, including architecture, anthropology, art history, sociology, and museums and cultural heritage.

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Museums and Cultural Heritage:

• Core courses explore exhibiting cultures and engage students in dissertation or thesis work, depending on the chosen program format.
• Elective courses expand knowledge in various areas such as anthropology, architecture, art history, English, history, Māori Studies, sociology, and museums and cultural heritage.

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Program Timelines:

• 120-point option can be completed full-time in two semesters or part-time in up to eight semesters.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

• The program utilizes various assessment methods, including:
• Assessments
• Exams
• Dissertation or thesis
• Portfolios
• Presentations

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are evaluated based on various criteria, including:
• Accuracy
• Critical thinking
• Research skills
• Communication skills
• Originality

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

• The program employs diverse teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Fieldwork
• Online learning

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced academics and industry professionals with expertise in heritage conservation.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a hands-on approach through field trips, practical exercises, and project work.
• Students gain real-world experience by working on heritage projects and engaging with the community.

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Careers

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Potential Career Paths:

• Building technologist
• Conservation consultant
• Curator
• Head of human history
• Heritage consultant
• Librarian or archivist
• Local authority heritage adviser
• Senior adviser with the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in various heritage-related fields.
• The program prepares students for leadership roles in the heritage industry.
• Alumni have transitioned into successful careers in government agencies, museums, conservation consultancies, and other heritage organizations.

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Other

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Program Highlights:

• Blends theoretical knowledge with practical application.
• Offers flexible learning options for students.
• Provides opportunities to specialize in built heritage or museums and cultural heritage.
• Emphasizes hands-on learning through fieldwork and project work.
• Equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the heritage industry.
• Offers career support and guidance to students.

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Further Study Options: