MA Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management

Program Overview

The MA Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management at the University of York is a distinctive postgraduate program that offers students the opportunity to gain specialized skills in the conservation of stained glass while also providing the knowledge needed for effective heritage management. The program explores the history, significance, and techniques of stained glass, focusing on its conservation and restoration. Students are trained in the latest conservation practices, from cleaning and repairing stained glass to understanding the complex materials and techniques used in its creation. In addition to this practical expertise, students also develop management skills that are essential for overseeing heritage sites and collections, including knowledge of heritage laws, ethics, and sustainable practices. The program is designed to prepare students for a range of careers in the conservation and heritage sectors, equipping them with both the technical and managerial expertise to protect and preserve stained glass artworks for future generations.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management provides a balanced combination of theoretical and practical learning. Core modules cover a range of topics including the history of stained glass, materials and techniques used in its creation, and the scientific principles behind conservation practices. Students will also study the legal and ethical issues related to heritage conservation, focusing on topics such as conservation ethics, heritage laws, and the principles of sustainable management. Practical training includes workshops where students gain hands-on experience in the conservation of stained glass, using state-of-the-art conservation methods and materials. Elective modules allow students to explore specific areas of interest, such as the conservation of specific historical styles of stained glass or the management of cultural heritage sites. The program also includes a dissertation, where students have the opportunity to conduct original research on a topic of their choice within the field of stained glass conservation and heritage management.

Research Focus: The research focus of the MA Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management at the University of York is rooted in the university’s broader commitment to the conservation of cultural heritage. Faculty members are experts in the conservation of stained glass and the management of heritage sites, and they actively contribute to research in this field. The program encourages students to engage with ongoing research projects and explore key issues in conservation science, such as the development of new conservation techniques, the study of historical stained glass materials, and the role of stained glass in cultural heritage. Students are encouraged to develop their research skills, with opportunities to contribute to academic publications or engage in collaborative projects with heritage institutions. The research focus on stained glass conservation and heritage management ensures that students are equipped to tackle the most pressing challenges in the field and contribute to the ongoing development of conservation practices.

Industry Engagement: The University of York’s MA Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management offers students significant opportunities for industry engagement, providing them with access to a network of heritage institutions, museums, galleries, and conservation organizations. Students have the chance to work with experts in the field through internships, placements, and collaborative projects, gaining hands-on experience in conservation and heritage management. The program also hosts guest lectures and workshops led by professionals from the conservation and heritage sectors, providing students with valuable insights into the practical aspects of working in the field. These industry connections enhance students' professional development and provide them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the competitive field of heritage conservation.

Global Perspective: The MA Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management at the University of York adopts a global perspective, recognizing the international significance of stained glass and the need for conservation practices to be applied globally. Students will have the opportunity to study stained glass traditions from different cultural contexts, exploring how the art form has evolved across different regions and time periods. The program also emphasizes the global nature of heritage management, with students examining international standards, conventions, and practices related to the conservation of cultural heritage. The university’s international faculty and diverse student body create an enriching learning environment that fosters cross-cultural exchange and encourages students to consider the global challenges and opportunities in heritage conservation.