Conservation of Archaeological & Museum Objects (Diss),MSc

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.

Combining specialist conservation skills with teaching in analysis and research. This research focused MSc allows you to explore a conservation topic in depth.

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.

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. Details of the course are available here.)

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.

Reference requirements:

One satisfactory academic reference is required, however, an additional reference from someone familiar with any museum, archaeology, art or laboratory experience you may have is always welcome.

Application deadlines

As there are a finite number of places on this course and demand is quite high, we operate a staged admissions process with three rounds of application deadlines.

If you apply before the Application deadline for a particular stage, as shown below, you will normally receive a response on or before the Decision by date. In some instances, it may be necessary for us to roll your application forward to the next round.

• All deadlines are 23:59 UK time (GMT)
• Although we aim to give you a decision on your application by the listed date, due to the volume of applications this may not always be possible. Please note that we reserve the right to issue offers to exceptional candidates in advance of each deadline.

Applications received after the Round 1 deadline will be considered in Round 2. Applications received after the Round 2 deadline will be considered in Round 3. Applications received after the Round 3 deadline will be considered at our discretion only if places are still available on the course.

Applicants are strongly recommended to apply well in advance of the application deadline.

Round One:

Application by: Jan 6th 2025

Decision by: February 3rd 2025

Round Two:

Application by: March 3rd 2025

Decision by April 1st 2025

Round Three:

Application by: May 15th 2025

Decision by June 15th 2025

Tuition fee deposit

All self-financing overseas students are required to pay a £1000 tuition fee deposit if an offer from the Department of Archaeology is accepted. The tuition fee deposit is paid before the University issues a Confirmation of Acceptance to Study (CAS) number, which is required in order to apply for a visa. £500 deposit is also payable by UK applicants if an offer of a place from the Department of Archaeology is accepted.

English language requirements

In a Department that spans both research activity and practical archaeological skills, you are well-placed to continue your studies or fulfil your career aspirations in professional employment.

We have developed the structure and contents of courses in such a way as to support your desire to pursue a PhD or undertake further academic work in whatever form.

For a rewarding and stimulating professional career, our teaching strategy develops your skills in teamwork, practical and intellectual problem-solving and analysis of evidence, which are highly sought after by employers.

We offer courses that prepare you for a career in professional archaeology, or in the increasingly significant conservation, heritage, or museums sectors.

You will also be well-placed for roles in tourism, environmental agencies as well as local and national government, teaching and law.