MA Heritage and Museum Studies

Heritage is the physical and intangible cultural materials we choose to preserve and value. But heritage is also a matter of heated debate. How do we manage, preserve, and communicate our heritage today? In what ways is the past remembered or forgotten, exploited and renegotiated in the present? What are the differences between tangible and intangible, cultural and natural, physical and digital heritage?

Our interdisciplinary MA Heritage and Museum Studies offers specialist, practically-grounded and academic training exploring these questions and more. Our intensive degree emphasises the real-world relevance of debates surrounding cultural patrimony, and the ways in which it is presented and consumed.

The MA is made up of core and optional modules, where you will develop knowledge of the field and practical skills, all while pursing your own specialist interests in the field of heritage.

You will study topics including:

• Heritage and human rights
• Digital heritage and advanced digital literacy skills
• Sustainability and ecological heritage
• Curatorial practice and practical curatorial skills
• Hands-on heritage skills and experience
• Public engagement
• Museum experience

One of the major reasons for choosing Essex is the quality of the education you will receive. We're 3rd in the UK for research outputs in art history (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021) and our School of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies boasts a wide range of innovative undergraduate and postgraduate courses grounded in an interdisciplinary ethos that fosters new ways of thinking and learning.