COURSE CURRICULUM

The Conservation graduate certificate program is structured across four consecutive semesters, combining in-person coursework with an intensive field placement. In Semester 1, students build foundational knowledge through courses such as Digital Applications for Conservation, History of Technology I, and introductory Lab Methods and Techniques, complemented by Preservation Science I and contextual studies that explore the role of preservation within cultural and historical frameworks. Semester 2 expands on this foundation with History of Technology II and courses focused on museum operations, including Introduction to Museum Exhibitions, Managing Collections, and Museum Management Practices, alongside advanced Lab Methods and Techniques and Preservation Science II, integrating practical skills with theoretical understanding. Semester 3 deepens students’ expertise with specialized subjects such as Care and Management of Specialized Collections, History of Technology III, and Preservation of Books, Photos, and Archival Material. This semester also includes Internship and Career Orientation to prepare students for professional work, with continued lab work and advanced preservation science studies. The final Semester 4 centers on a substantial 600-hour field placement, providing full-time, real-world experience that is crucial for applying skills learned in previous semesters in professional conservation environments. Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse range of materials and techniques, gaining hands-on experience in preventive conservation, treatment methods, and materials science. This blend of classroom learning, applied laboratory techniques, museum management, and immersive fieldwork equips graduates with the practical skills and ethical grounding necessary to preserve cultural heritage artifacts effectively for future generations.