Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects (Diss)

Entry requirements

A good second class honours degree (typically 2:1 Honours) or international equivalent in any subject and a pass in Mathematics Grade 4 (or C) or above at GCSE level, or equivalent.

Applicants without a degree will be required to demonstrate sufficient academic capability to satisfactorily complete this degree. Chemistry requirements, one of the following: A grade of ‘B’ or higher in A level Chemistry or its equivalent,A degree that included a significant science component, e.g. Biology or Material Science, An A, B or C grade for Chemistry in a Scottish 'Higher' or similar high grade in the Irish 'Leaving Certificate' may also be acceptable, Completion of university level course units in Inorganic and Organic chemistry - this is particularly appropriate for students from North America, Completion of the 'Chemistry for Conservators' course (this is a correspondence course, which lasts approximately 6 months.)

All students need to be able to accurately distinguish between colours and safely handle objects, scalpels, and other conservation tools. Students may be required to undertake tests to ascertain the levels of some of these skills, if they are invited to visit. Evidence of engagement with and interest in archaeological and museum objects, while not formally required, is highly recommended. This may be in the form of employment, internship or volunteer work in a museum, historic house, or a collecting institute, such as an archaeological repository, or through archaeological site work.

Please note there are a limited number of places available on the course each year, due to the size of the teaching laboratory.

We will only consider applications from those where English is not their first language if they have taken a relevant English Language test which meets the minimum requirements.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Note: This course replaces the MA in Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects, which was previously offered.

The MSc in Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects (Dissertation) combines theoretical knowledge with specialist practical skills. It equips you with the investigative skills to answer some of the complex conservation and archaeological questions posed by ancient and historic artefacts and explores ways to safeguard valuable objects for future generations to enjoy.

This research-rich course, which is studied over two years full time or three years part time, is designed for those interested in a career in conservation research or preventive conservation. It will also suit those with conservation experience who are interested in exploring the field in greater depth. While we draw students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, they share a number of essential traits, those of manual dexterity, a knowledge of chemistry and the desire and commitment to work with museum objects.

Taught by qualified conservators, the course includes core modules in the theory and methods of conservation, conservation skills and practice, artefact studies and the care of collections. The final year of the course is dedicated to the dissertation which focuses on an aspect of object conservation.

The Department of Archaeology at Durham is one of the largest in the world and is considered a leader in archaeological research in the UK. We have a global reputation for our academic standards and the quality of teaching.

We offer state-of-the-art facilities including internationally renowned research laboratories in DNA, conservation, isotope analysis, environmental archaeology, luminescence dating, paleopathology and bone chemistry as well as unique collections of artefacts.

The Department also hosts Archaeological Services Durham University, a leading commercial archaeological fieldwork unit. This means we can provide expert training on the latest fieldwork practices from professional archaeologists.

We are also highly fortunate to be based in the city of Durham which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and located near some of the country’s renowned archaeological sites, such as Hadrian’s Wall and the Saxon monastery at Jarrow.

Core modules:

Conservation Theory and Method provides the knowledge to professionally plan the conservation of archaeological and museum objects. You will develop an understanding of the evolution of conservation, its organisation, present day aims and methods used. You will also consider how ethical factors influence the approach to work.

Conservation Skills is a practical module that gives you the opportunity to work on archaeological objects and carry out a range of laboratory, fieldwork, documentation, cleaning, adhesion and replication activities. You will learn to examine and successfully treat archaeological objects and to document the impacts of their interventions in preparation for later practical coursework.

Artefact Studies provides an understanding of the theory, practice and status of artefact studies, with a particular focus on museum collections and archives. You will learn about the physical properties and the traditional production and use of materials and products and also develop skills in handling, analysing, interpreting and recording objects by examining and comparing collections from different periods and cultures.

Care of Collections (Conservation) introduces the concept of preventative conservation and the issues involved with caring for collections. It provides a detailed understanding of the environmental factors that cause deterioration and presents ways they can be monitored and tackled.

And one optional module drawn from a list of potential modules that could support your research objectives. The decision about which module may be most advantageous is taken in concert with the course convener.

The Dissertation, undertaken in the second year of the course, sees you undertake a major piece of work in conservation or object analysis. You will engage in advanced level research; practising, developing and demonstrating your research skills in conservation or object analysis. The dissertation is an opportunity to explore published literature on a research topic, develop a research design, collect data or information, critically evaluate it and draw your own conclusions.

Information for international students

If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.

Fees and funding

For further information see the course listing.