Victoria University's Museum and Heritage Studies Programme produces graduates with the knowledge, skills and critical and creative thinking which are demanded in today's cultural sector. The Programme offers a range of flexible qualifications and courses which balance taught classes and work experience, academic research and professional skills. Students will acquire a broad grasp of this interdisciplinary field which combines history, theory and practice with opportunities for independent research and workplace projects.
The Programme offers three specialist qualifications as well as an MA by thesis and PhD by thesis. The Graduate Certificate in Museum and Heritage Studies consists of two core courses, and it is the ideal introduction to the Museum and Heritage sector and a platform for further study. The Graduate Diploma in Museum and Heritage Studies is a four-course diploma, comprising an introductory course, practicum, elective and research essay or project, and it provides a flexible qualification for working professionals or graduate students seeking a career in the field.
The Master of Museum and Heritage Studies is a postgraduate degree which requires four taught courses, two practicums and a dissertation based on original research. The unique combination of theoretical and applied study at an advanced level prepares graduates for a career in museums, art galleries and a range of cultural and natural heritage organisations in New Zealand. Taking advantage of Wellington' rich cultural resources, classes incorporate numerous field trips and input from senior staff of local organisations.
Museums and Cultural Heritage is an interdisciplinary program. It draws on museums and heritage-related courses taught by the departments of Anthropology, Art History, History, Māori Studies and Sociology. Museums and Cultural Heritage is available for postgraduate study and is coordinated by the Department of Anthropology and the Department of Art History. Museums and Cultural Heritage will give you an excellent foundation for a career as a curator, education officer, art gallery registrar or manager, and for careers in museums and heritage institutions in the private and government sectors, and in tourism.
Both the Postgraduate Diploma in Museum Studies (PGDipMusStud) and the Master of Arts (MA) in Museum Studies are open to students who have a first degree (or equivalent knowledge and experience) and who intend to pursue a career in museums and other heritage institutions. The courses are available extramurally and delivered from the Palmerston North campus.
