Course structure and content
The MA Conservation combines advanced practical conservation with scientific investigation, independent research, critical reflection and professional development.
Teaching includes specialist demonstrations, supervised practical work, individual tutorials, seminars, research activities, presentations and independent study.
The course is organised into three 60-credit units, supporting your progression from methodological investigation through advanced conservation practice to critical evaluation and professional development.
Unit 1: Methods
Research, investigation and conservation methodologies
You’ll investigate the materials, condition and historical contexts of cultural objects, exploring the scientific, technical and research methods that inform conservation practice.
Through material investigation, analytical research and methodological testing, you’ll evaluate different approaches to conservation and develop a critical understanding of the evidence underpinning treatment decisions.
You’ll also examine the ethical and professional frameworks that inform conservation practice, establishing rigorous approaches to documentation, research and reflection.
The emphasis is on enquiry, investigation and informed decision-making, providing a foundation for the advanced conservation work undertaken in the following unit.
Unit 2: Practices
Advanced conservation practice and treatment
Building on your research and investigation, you’ll undertake sustained practical conservation work, applying appropriate technical methods and professional judgement to complex conservation challenges.
You’ll develop and refine treatment strategies through scientific analysis, contextual research, specialist supervision and critical evaluation, considering the material, historical and ethical implications of your decisions.
The unit supports the development of a substantial body of conservation work, accompanied by professional documentation and evidence of your research and decision-making.
You’ll also present your work in the MA Show, communicating the development and outcomes of your conservation project through the display of conserved objects and supporting research or treatment documentation, as appropriate.
Unit 3: Professions
Critical reflection and professional development
You’ll critically evaluate your conservation work and research, considering your decisions and methodologies in relation to wider professional, ethical and cultural contexts.
Through advanced research, writing and professional development activities, you’ll investigate contemporary conservation debates and consider how your practice might contribute to the future of the discipline.
You’ll develop your ability to communicate complex technical and ethical decisions clearly, reflecting on the relationship between scientific evidence, practical intervention and professional responsibility.
The unit culminates in a Critical Practice Event, where you’ll present your research, critically reflect on your development and articulate future directions for your professional practice.
Practice Web Archive
Throughout the MA, you’ll develop a Practice Web Archive: a digital record of your conservation work, research and critical reflection.
You’ll use the archive to document condition assessments, technical investigations, treatment proposals, practical outcomes and research findings, alongside reflection on your methods and decisions.
The archive forms an important part of your learning and assessment, demonstrating how your understanding, technical expertise and professional judgement develop across the three units.
Full-time and part-time study
You can study MA Conservation full-time over one year or part-time over two years. Both routes combine scheduled teaching and specialist supervision with independent practical work and research.
Full-time study
You’ll be expected to commit five days a week to your MA, combining conservation practice, research and independent study with scheduled teaching and supervision.
Part-time study
You’ll be expected to commit three days a week to your MA, combining scheduled teaching and specialist supervision with independent practical work and research
Teaching arrangements
Graduate School teaching is generally scheduled between Monday and Wednesday, including shared postgraduate seminars and cross-course activities.
Specialist conservation teaching, practical supervision and project-based sessions may also be arranged at other times, depending on the requirements of your work and the availability of specialist tutors.
Your individual timetable and access arrangements will be confirmed by the course team.
Attendance and engagement
Scheduled teaching and supervision vary according to the stage of the course and the requirements of your conservation work. Attendance at all scheduled sessions is expected, alongside sustained independent research and practical engagement throughout your study week.
Assessment and feedback
Assessment combines practical conservation outcomes, technical documentation, research, critical reflection, written submissions and presentations, according to the requirements of each unit.
You’ll receive feedback through specialist supervision, individual tutorials, group discussions and progress reviews, supporting the development of your technical expertise, research skills and professional judgement.
Your Practice Web Archive supports assessment by documenting your investigation, treatment decisions, practical work and critical evaluation throughout the course.