Course summary

About this course This is a specialised pathway within the MA Cultural Heritage Studies program with a particular focus on the role of museums in the modern world. The core module, 'Museums in the Modern World', explores how heritage is interpreted, presented, and protected within these institutions. You will gain a behind-the-scenes insight into how museums communicate the past, drawing on the University’s close links with various museum and heritage partners. While specialising in museums, you can still choose optional modules to explore themes in a wide variety of heritage contexts, including art, film, literature, the built environment, and archaeology. We're ranked 7th for archaeology and 3rd for research quality in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026). Your future career This pathway provides you with the expertise and knowledge for a successful career in the sector, particularly within museums and cultural institutions, or for pursuing further study at the PhD level. You will develop critical research skills and in-depth knowledge of heritage management and interpretation, which are essential for roles in this field. Key features of this course • Museum Specialism: Core focus on the interpretation, presentation, and protection of heritage specifically within a museum context. • Industry Exposure: Gain essential experience through field trips, meeting industry practitioners, and the opportunity to apply for a work placement with one of the University's heritage partners. • Flexible Final Project: You can choose to complete either a 20,000-word dissertation or a professional project (such as an exhibition, catalogue, professional report, or guidebook) with a shorter critical commentary (5,000 to 15,000 words). Further information This master's course is a full-time 12-month program. The taught modules are completed in the first nine months, followed by three months of independent work on your dissertation or professional project, with close supervision. Learning involves lectures, seminars, field trips, project work, and independent study. The overall Cultural Heritage programme is led by Professor Alistair Pike, a Professor of Archaeological Sciences.