Program Overview

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Course Overview

The course ARK3003, Museums and Heritage Studies, provides insight into the research and management of cultural heritage, with a particular emphasis on the role of university museums.

Course Content

The course focuses on the role of cultural heritage in a world where ethnic, cultural, religious, and historical boundaries and identities are challenged at the intersection of local, regional, and global levels. It explores how university museums can position themselves in such a complex situation and increase the understanding of and for the cultural heritage as a resource of knowledge. The course covers topics such as:

• The philosophy of conservation
• The role of university museums as producers of knowledge
• Heritage and museums in conflict areas
• Heritage and history
• University museums' collection management

Learning Outcome

A candidate who has passed the course is expected to have the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

• A thorough knowledge of museums in society, the philosophy of conservation, and museological theory
• A thorough knowledge of the University Museum's role as producers of knowledge regarding heritage, conflict, and democracy

Skills

• The ability to use the knowledge to analyze aspects related to University museums' role in the field of heritage studies
• The ability to actively participate in the cooperation between the museum sector, administration, research institutions, and society in general
• The ability to analyze the complex interactions between production of knowledge, the museum as a caretaker and an institution of dissemination, and the society

Learning Methods and Activities

The course consists of lectures, seminars, and contact with the museum sector.

Required Previous Knowledge

A Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Cultural Heritage, or Art History is required.

Course Materials

Each semester, an updated syllabus is published, containing information about textbooks and aids.

Subject Areas

• Cultural Heritage Management
• Archaeology

Course Details

• Credits: 7.5
• Level: Second degree level
• Course start: Autumn 2025
• Duration: 1 semester
• Language of instruction: English
• Location: Trondheim
• Examination arrangement: Home examination

Examination

• Examination arrangement: Home examination
• Grade: Letter grades
• Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025:
  • Home examination
  • Weighting: 100/100
  • Date: Release 09:00, Submission 14:00
  • Duration: 1 week
  • Exam system: Inspera Assessment
• Re-sit examination - Spring 2026:
  • Home examination
  • Weighting: 100/100
  • Duration: 1 week
  • Exam system: Inspera Assessment