Museum Studies PGDip by distance learning

Course description

This degree will provide you with the practical and theoretical experience needed to become a creative and effective museum and gallery professional or to further advance your career in the sector.

You will be taught by experts in the field, who have been involved in expanding the academic discipline of museum studies over many years. The course will equip you with a thorough knowledge and critical understanding of current principles, practice, and contemporary debates in Museum Studies.

Over the course you will explore areas such as:

• The social role of museums and art galleries
• Activist practice in museums and galleries
• Collections care and management
• Exhibitions strategies
• Museum design
• Museum ethics and interpretation

To complete the Postgraduate Diploma, you will take four core modules, followed by four option modules, giving you the opportunity to delve into your particular interests and to develop your expertise in the field of your choice. The subjects include museum learning, heritage, digital in museums, museums and contemporary issues, and museums and the natural environment, as well as a practice option which is focused on a workplace-based project.

Careers and employability

Our graduates are employed in some of the largest and most prestigious museums and galleries worldwide, in addition to some smaller specialist and local institutions. They include:

• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
• British Natural History Museum
• Chatsworth House
• Christies
• Greek Ministry of Culture
• Greenwich Maritime Museum
• Imperial War Museum
• National Galleries of Scotland
• National Museum Ireland
• National Trust
• Rollo Contemporary Art Gallery
• Royal Armouries
• Science Museum.

Students need to have: Either a first class or second class degree, which can be in any subject area; Or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills and aptitudes through the possession of a professional or vocational qualification and/or the accrual of relevant work experiences. Relevant experience can come from a wide spectrum of work or voluntary environments but clear evidence of this experience must be provided. You should be able to demonstrate a commitment to, or strong interest in, museums, galleries, or other kinds of heritage or cultural organisation. If you do not have a degree, you will be asked complete an assessment, such as an essay, so as to demonstrate your readiness for postgraduate study. Clear guidance will be provided on assessment criteria. You may also be required to attend an interview.