Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media UCL

Overview

The Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media MSc at UCL is a two-year programme focused on the preservation and care of contemporary artworks and media, including sculpture, installation, digital, performance-based, and mixed-media works. The course combines practical studio and laboratory training with critical study, preparing students to address the challenges of conserving complex and technologically evolving artworks.

Why Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media at UCL?

UCL is renowned for its academic excellence and innovative approach to education, consistently ranking among the top universities globally. The university's unique partnerships with various cultural institutions and organisations enhance the learning experience, providing students with access to world-class facilities and resources. UCL East, with its state-of-the-art laboratories and media facilities, is specifically designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of contemporary art conservation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the MSc in Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media, the tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are as follows:

• National Students: £16,000 per year
• International Students: £33,000 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary art conservation, divided into core and optional modules across two years. The curriculum includes:

• Examining and Analysing Artworks
• Conserving Complexity
• Communicating Conservation
• Advanced Seminar in the Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media
• Science of Contemporary Materials
• Studio Practice: Conservation of Time-based Media
• Studio Practice: Conservation of Contemporary Materials
• Dissertation or Project Paper
• Work Placement

In the first year, students will engage in practical lab classes to understand the deterioration of materials, while the second year focuses on a work placement that provides real-world experience in conservation settings.

Industry Demand

The demand for skilled conservators in contemporary art and media is growing as institutions increasingly recognise the importance of preserving modern artistic expressions. Graduates of this programme will be equipped to tackle challenges in various sectors, including museums, cultural heritage organisations, and private conservation practices.

Guaranteed Work Experience

The programme includes a mandatory work placement during the second year, allowing students to gain invaluable hands-on experience in professional settings. This component is designed to enhance practical skills and facilitate networking opportunities within the industry.

Careers with Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media

Graduates of the MSc in Conservation of Contemporary Art and Media will find diverse career opportunities in fields such as:

• Museum and gallery management
• Cultural heritage institutions
• Arts non-profit organisations
• Private conservation practices
• Digital preservation and heritage management

This programme prepares students not only for immediate employment but also for potential doctoral research, equipping them with the skills necessary to contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary art conservation.