MSc Heritage

University of Stirling

Overview

Heritage is a global phenomenon with diverse economic, social, and political roles. It encompasses the surviving tangible and intangible traces of the past, but also the processes and practices that frame heritage in the present and produce particular kinds of futures.

The aim of this degree programme is to provide a critically informed interdisciplinary education in heritage, with three pathways. You may choose to specialise in one of these pathways or opt to take the broad programme without specialisation:

• Cultural Heritage Studies
• Heritage and Environment
• Digital Heritage

Shared core modules provide a foundation in current conceptual and theoretical debates about the nature of heritage and its importance in society, as well as practical issues relating to its conservation and management. Case studies, fieldtrips and input from heritage professionals introduce students to specific kinds of heritage and ‘real-world’ challenges, demands and opportunities.

Cutting-edge research training provides students with an excellent foundation for conducting independent research in the Dissertation, whilst vocational skills are embedded throughout the programme to produce competitive, work-ready graduates.

It provides successful students with excellent training for a career in the heritage sector, supported by critical-thinking, in-depth knowledge and wide-ranging skills. It also provides a strong foundation for doctoral research for those students contemplating a PhD in Heritage or a related area.

Course objectives

On successful completion of this programme, you should be able to:

• Show critical understanding of the theories, concepts and principles used in heritage studies and heritage practice, as well as apply them to complex interdisciplinary problems and evidence
• Demonstrate an intensive, detailed and critical knowledge of heritage, with the option to specialise in a pathway
• Understand and deploy conservation policy and national/international heritage legislation to various ‘real-world’ scenarios