Advance your conservation practice through specialist investigation, scientific analysis and critical enquiry.
The MA Conservation at City & Guilds of London Art School offers advanced postgraduate study for graduates in Conservation who wish to extend their technical expertise, develop independent research skills and deepen their understanding of conservation as a critical and ethical practice.
Building on the Art School’s longstanding expertise in conservation education, the course combines advanced practical work with scientific investigation, material research and critical reflection. You’ll be encouraged to question established approaches, evaluate complex conservation challenges and develop the independent judgement required for professional practice.
You’ll undertake object-led research and conservation work under specialist supervision, investigating materials, deterioration processes and treatment methodologies. Teaching and project supervision are supported by expertise in the conservation of three-dimensional objects, including wood, stone and related materials, and books and paper.
The course progresses through three units — Methods, Practices and Professions — taking you from research and methodological investigation through advanced conservation practice to critical evaluation and professional development.
You’ll present your conservation work in the Art School’s MA Show and communicate your research through a final Critical Practice Event.
As part of the Graduate School, you’ll also exchange ideas with postgraduate students across Fine Art, Carving and Conservation: Collection Care & Management, exploring different approaches to material knowledge, cultural heritage and professional responsibility.
Duration: One year full-time or two years part-time.
Award: Master of Arts (MA), validated by Arts University Bournemouth.
Considering postgraduate conservation study but don’t already hold a degree in Conservation? Our MA Conservation: Collection Care & Management offers a different route into postgraduate study, focusing on preventive conservation, collections care and professional practice within museums and heritage organisations.