MA in Cultural Heritage Studies, University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham - Alabama, Alabama

24 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The Master of Arts degree in Cultural Heritage Studies is a unique postgraduate program focused on equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in cultural heritage practice, policy, and management. It is interdisciplinary, including courses in art history, anthropology, and public administration. Students can work closely with faculty through seminars and research projects, benefiting from a small class size that fosters personalized mentorship. The degree emphasizes understanding global cultural heritage issues, preservation practices, and the management of cultural and public arts institutions. Students also undertake a final research project to demonstrate their mastery of the discipline.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for students interested in making a meaningful impact in the field of cultural heritage. Its interdisciplinary approach offers a broad foundation suitable for various careers, from arts management to international diplomacy. The small class environment allows personalized mentorship and direct engagement with faculty, which enhances learning and research opportunities. Graduates will be well-prepared for roles in museums, arts advocacy, policy development, and international heritage work.

Specialisation

Students can choose between two study tracks: the Cultural Heritage track and the Cultural Heritage Administration track. The Cultural Heritage track delves into international cultural heritage issues, protection, geopolitics, and responses to threats like looting and destruction. The Cultural Heritage Administration track focuses on public policy, museum management, nonprofit arts administration, and organizational structures relevant to cultural administration.

Course fees

Application fees

0.00L

1st year tuition fees

Living cost

Degree requirements

The degree requires completing 30 credit hours, with 27 hours of coursework including core classes like 'Issues in Global Cultural Heritage' and a practicum or internship. Students must also complete a final professional research project to demonstrate proficiency in their chosen field of specialization.

English language test

DUOLINGO

120

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

Career prospects

Graduates have a wide range of opportunities including careers in historic preservation, museum studies, arts management, arts policy, law, international relations, diplomacy, government agencies, cultural advocacy organizations, arts councils, community arts programs, and the foreign service. The program prepares students for roles that require expertise in cultural policy, advocacy, and management at local, national, and international levels.

FAQs

What are the admission requirements?

Applicants need a minimum GPA of 3.0 and should have completed 18 semester hours in related fields such as art history, anthropology, history, political science, or museum studies. A personal interview, which can be conducted over Skype, is part of the selection process.

Can I choose between study tracks?

Yes, students can select either the Cultural Heritage track or the Cultural Heritage Administration track based on their interests and career goals.