Postgraduate Museum Studies and Museology Courses at Arts University Plymouth

Museum studies and museology is a fascinating and culturally important field, which focuses on the curation, preservation and management of cultural heritage and the institutions which it is home to. The work of museology can apply to museums, art galleries, libraries and many types of public archives, and learning to manage and develop these collections is an ever-evolving profession.

Entry requirements typically include a relevant undergraduate degree in history, art history or museum studies. A postgraduate course can be anything from master’s level up to PhD or doctorate level and can range from one year to six years in duration depending on course specifics.

Graduates are prepared for roles as museum curators, conservators or educators, contributing to the preservation and presentation of cultural artefacts. While there may not be a specific UK accreditation body, the programme aligns with international museum standards, ensuring graduates meet professional museum practice criteria.

What to Expect

Museum studies and museology students explore museum ethics, collection management and exhibition design, and postgraduate degrees allow for an in-depth look at how to interpret and curate cultural heritage. Most masters courses include a long-form written dissertation, which allows students to immerse themselves in a particular area of interest, which may form the basis for a career specialism.

Assessment methods include coursework, research projects and practical placements and after graduation, you’ll be well-prepared for roles as museum curators, conservators or educators, contributing to the preservation and presentation of cultural artefacts and the realm of historical and cultural public knowledge.