Program Overview

Introduction to the MA Museum Studies Program

The MA Museum Studies program is a one-year taught master's degree offered by the Department of Archaeology at University College Cork. This program aims to provide broad academic and professional training in all aspects of museum design, management, and education, while encouraging students to reflect critically on the relevance of these institutions in the contemporary world.

Course Outline

The 90-credit program comprises taught modules, supervised work placements in museums, the production of a temporary museum exhibition, and a research dissertation. The taught modules are examined through continuous assessment, using a combination of class tests, presentations, essays, and projects.

Part A

• Semester I:
  • AR6022 The Museum in the 21st century (5 Credits)
  • AR6028 Museum Curation (5 Credits)
  • AR6025 Museums and the Public (5 Credits)
• Semester II:
  • AR6023 The Museum Environment (5 Credits)
  • AR6032 Museum Administration (5 Credits)
  • AR6026 Work Placement 1 (10 credits)

Part B

• AR6029 Work Placement 2 (10 credits)
• AR6030 The Exhibition Experience (10 credits)
• AR6027 Dissertation in Museum Studies (35 credits)

Course Practicalities

Lectures take place on Mondays and Tuesdays over six months from October to March, with an average of six lecture hours each teaching week. Students will attend additional research training, workshops, and a number of one-day excursions organized on different dates.

Why Choose This Course

This degree represents the only museum training course offered by any third-level institution in the Republic of Ireland. There is considerable activity in the sector, with over 40,000 members from 141 countries joined the International Council of Museums. The diversity of museums at an international, national, regional/county, and local level creates a demand for training and viable employment prospects.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

Students will undertake two museum placements where they will learn aspects of museum management, design, and practice, as well as the opportunity to work on a particular project such as an exhibition.

Skills and Careers Information

This program supports a recognized profession internationally, one that has a strategic role in state policy on cultural heritage and tourism. Our graduates acquire a systematic and critical understanding of museum practice and theory.

Requirements

Second Class Honours Grade II in a primary honors degree from a recognized third-level institution, in one of the following disciplines: Archaeology, Anthropology, Folklore, History, History of Art, Heritage Studies, or Local Studies.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is 9,200. The Non-EU fee for this course is 19,900.

How to Apply

1. Check dates: Check the opening and closing dates for the application process.
2. Gather documents: Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the application portal.
3. Apply online: Apply online through the university's application portal.

Additional Requirements

• You may enter the details of professional or voluntary positions held.
• Please describe your motivation and readiness for this program.
• What is your current occupation/specialty?
• Please enter the names and email addresses of two referees.

Deposits