MA International Cultural Heritage Management

at Durham University

Course modules

Debating Heritage and Museums
This joint module is taken by students on the MA programmes in International Cultural Heritage Management and in Museum and Artefact Studies. The emphasis is on student-led debates exploring key issues affecting heritage and museums globally. Topics addressed include defining ‘heritage’ and ‘museums’; contested histories; social, economic and cultural contexts; public engagement; ethical dilemmas; digital heritage. Students are able to develop and challenge shared conceptual frameworks using case-studies from around the world, gain relevant methodological skills to gather, analyse and critically evaluate data and concepts used in the discourse of cultural heritage and develop study and research skills appropriate to heritage studies, including working as reflective practitioners.

Managing Cultural Heritage in Context (double unit running through two terms):
This module will draw on case studies and seminars from international heritage organisations including World Heritage Sites. You will participate in student-led seminars in which each student will develop a case study including consideration of education and outreach in cultural heritage. It includes management of cultural heritage including strategic planning, financial management and people, collection and site management.

A project-based placement (or equivalent) provides a professional practice element.

Dissertation or Analytical Case Study Report:
The MA concludes with a choice of modules. Students wanting to work in the profession may choose to prepare detailed analytical case study report focusing on a site or heritage organisation of their choice. Students wishing to continue to explore theoretical issues in this complex subject or plan to pursue a career in other contexts, including taking a higher level degree, may choose the Dissertation module.

Graduates from the degree have gone on to work in posts in heritage sites and related organisations ranging from management to funding raising and heritage education to outreach as well as developing careers in allied sectors or going on to PhD studies.

We normally require an Honours Degree, usually at the 2:1 level or higher or an international equivalent, such as a GPA of 3.3 or above. The course is taught assuming no prior knowledge, but an ability to demonstrate previous interest or experience of cultural heritage would be an advantage. Students should be willing to prepare a cultural heritage case study to bring with them.

Reference Requirements
One satisfactory reference is required.

Full Time Fees
 

• Home students    £10,800 per year
• EU students    £22,100 per year
• Island students    £10,800 per year
• International students    £22,100 per year

The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).

Many of our postgraduates move into an academic career, either teaching or by taking up post-doctoral research positions in universities. Others join museums or national and regional heritage organisations. Some work in professional archaeology, in national or local planning departments, while others elect to use their analytical and presentation skills to gain positions in industry, commerce and government.