Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Cultural Materials Conservation)
Course code: 095CM
INTRODUCTION
The Postgraduate Diploma allows students to undertake a research project in cultural material conservation. Students will gain considerable knowledge in an area of cultural material conservation and engage in critical assessment of the major theoretical or practical tenets. The course provides a pathway to higher degree research for students who have not completed a four year undergraduate degree with research component in cultural material conservation.
The program may be undertaken over 1 year full-time and up to 3 years part-time.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The prerequisite for entry into the program is an undergraduate degree in cultural material conservation with a grade average equivalent to H2B (70%) and at least two years documented professional experience working as a conservator. The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.
COURSE INFORMATION
Course co-ordinator: Marcelle Scott
Course objectives: Students who complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Cultural Material Conservation) will:
- develop an in-depth knowledge of theories and methodologies in cultural material conservation;
- gain an understanding of the role of cultural material in the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of individuals, communities and nations;
- be able to access, appreciate and contribute to national and international debates, protocols and conventions relevant to cultural material conservation;
- be able to act as informed advocates for cultural material conservation and play a leadership role within the sector, actively engaging in critical policy issues;
- develop an appreciation of cultural diversity, community sensitivities and a changing social context to the scientific and historical paradigms that exist within the cultural heritage and conservation sectors;
- be able to apply critical and analytical skills and methods, and a cross disciplinary understanding and approach, to the identification and resolution of conservation issues;
- be able to competently and independently develop, communicate and apply conservation methodologies that are scientifically and technically sound, ethical, and consistent with cultural contexts and community needs;
- develop a strong sense of professional and ethical responsibility for cultural heritage and an awareness of the moral and legal responsibilities of professional practice.
COURSE STRUCTURE
Duration: 1 year full time/up to 3 years part-time
Content: A thesis of 12,000 words and up to 5 elective subjects
Total 100 points - subjects are 12.5 points each unless indicated otherwise
Thesis subject: 108-543 Conservation Minor Thesis (37.5 points, 12,000 words) (year long)
OR
(for mid-year entry students) 108-544 Conservation Minor Thesis MYE (37.5 points, 12,000 words) (semester two and semester one)
Elective subjects:
108-446 Introduction to Materials and Techniques (semester one)
108-449 Conservation Materials Chemistry (semester one)
107-514 Conservation Research Essay (semester one - intensive mode)
107-471 Histories and Theories of Conservation (semester one)
131-464 Secret Life of Things (semester one)
107-512 The Virtual Print Room (semester one)
107-530 History and Philosophy of Museums (semester one)
108-445 Respect (semester two)
108-450 Analytical Chemistry in Conservation (semester two)
107-417 Australian Cultural Heritage Management (not offered)
107-402 Attribution, Expertise and Connoisseurship (semester two)
121-503 Research Methods and Design (intensive study - summer)
Note: Alternative elective subjects may be chosen depending on the students field of study and existing knowledge. Students must gain the approval of the course coordinator for their choice of electives.
Application forms for the Postgraduate Diploma are available through the Arts Faculty.