Heritage, Identity and Place

Program Overview

Heritage, Identity and Place

Overview

This module explores the complex relationships between heritage, identity, memory, and place. It examines how heritage informs our sense of self and our relationships to cultural and natural environments. The module delves into the construction of identities and sense of place, considering the role of heritage conservation, management, and interpretation in mediating these processes.

Key Facts

• Module code: HERPP04
• Start date: 22 Sep 2025
• Application deadline: 8 Sep 2025
• Duration: 11 weeks
• Time commitment: 200 hours
• Credit value SCQF: 20 credits
• SCQF level: Level 11
• Fees: Home: £1,056; International: £2,289
• Mode of study: part time
• Delivery: on campus

Entrance Requirements

The degree programme is open to applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds. Your Honours degree or equivalent should be in a relevant subject. Ideally, students should have a 2:1 or above in their first degree. We will consider students with a 2:2, but the programme is not recommended for those with a low or borderline 2:2 (or equivalent) in their first degree.

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language, you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

• IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
• IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking, and 17 in writing.

Objectives

On successful completion of the module, you should be able to:

1. Show a critical understanding of key concepts and theories of heritage, identity, and place.
2. Analyse the processes involved in the production of memory, identity, and place, and their role in shaping our relationship to cultural and natural environments.
3. Demonstrate detailed knowledge of a range of case studies and the diverse perspectives associated with them.
4. Show an understanding of how policies and practices of conservation, management, and representation mediate these processes.
5. Develop incisive and creative responses to problems, issues, and debates.

Structure and Content

Each week, you will participate in a thematic seminar that will require reading, preparation, and viewing of recorded content in advance. The seminars will focus on key concepts and theories of heritage, identity, and place, and will consider the role of heritage in the making of national, regional, and local identities.

Delivery and Assessment

The module is delivered through a blend of learning content accessed through the University Portal with in-person seminars on campus. You will be asked to do set reading and a range of stimulating exercises and activities in advance of class. Seminars will involve small-group discussions and guest speakers. A day-long field trip is a highlight of the module, facilitating direct engagement with particular heritage places associated with both official and marginalised heritage values.

There will be two assessments:

• The first is an essay on a topic relevant to the module of your choosing developed in consultation with the module coordinator (3,000 words, 60%).
• The second is a heritage interpretation project (40%) based on one of the field trip sites.

Module Coordinator

Professor Siân Jones

Employability

The module is designed to promote a critical understanding of the relationships between heritage, identity, memory, and place. It will enhance your knowledge and skills for employability in heritage and museum sectors by equipping you with independent critical and reflective skills. On successful completion, you should be able to identify opportunities to improve what you do and take action when faced with complex, real-world issues, involving diverse perspectives, traditions, and beliefs.