Master of Philosophy specialising in Conservation of the Built Environment

This exciting inter-disciplinary programme aims to equip graduates with a strong intellectual foundation in the field of built environment conservation, and the necessary professional skills to engage in heritage practice and heritage resource management.

The course is situated in a contemporary South African and global context in which heritage and conservation practices intersect powerfully with the politics of spatial transformation, urban change, social justice and development. Within this context, built environment professionals and managers are often required to work with or to take account of heritage and heritage resources. To do so productively requires a thorough technical and legal understanding of heritage resource management; but beyond this, the ability to grapple critically with the relationships between conservation, heritage, transformation and sustainable futures. We operate from the position that the built environment can only be understood as part of a network of social, political, commemorative, spatial, economic and other meanings. The course aims to enable graduates to practice effectively in the field, supported by a thorough understanding of contemporary debates and issues in heritage and conservation.

Course Structure

The MPhil is offered part-time over two years, including six taught modules and a research report. Teaching takes place in one-week full-time blocks, designed to accommodate working professionals as well as students who are not permanently based in Cape Town. The course provides input from and opportunities to connect with established heritage professionals, researchers, academics and built environment practitioners. It includes field trips, site visits and hands-on experience to provide a well-rounded foundation in conservation practice and theory.

Potential Students

We welcome applications from students with diverse disciplinary and professional backgrounds, including those already working in built environment practice as well as those who wish to develop their skills and qualifications in the field. Past students have included people with qualifications and/or experience in:

• Architecture
• Planning
• Urban design
• Heritage
• Archaeology
• History
• Visual and performing arts
• Education
• The humanities Admission to the degree requires a four-year degree or equivalent, and we will consider students with a three-year degree or equivalent plus relevant experience.

Course Content

• Year 1:
  • Introduction to Conservation
  • Conservation in Transformative Contexts
  • Critical Issues in Heritage Studies
  • Working With Heritage Resources
• Year 2:
  • Research Methodologies
  • Conservation & Development in Practice
  • Research Project (60 credit mini-dissertation)

University of Cape Town: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is a globally recognized university located in South Africa. It is committed to unleashing human potential to create a fair and just society, with a focus on transformation, sustainability, and excellence. UCT is known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and commitment to social responsibility.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The provided context does not offer specific details about student life and campus experiences at UCT. However, it highlights the university's commitment to creating a supportive environment for students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

International Recognition:

UCT graduates hold qualifications that are recognized globally.

Social Justice Focus:

The university emphasizes values of engaged citizenship and social justice.

Research Excellence:

UCT is a leading research institution in Africa, contributing to new knowledge and addressing global challenges.

Sustainable Development Goals:

UCT is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and plays a critical role in addressing global challenges through research.

Transformative Initiatives:

UCT is actively involved in initiatives like the African Paediatric Fellowship Programme and the 100UP programme, which aim to address critical issues in healthcare and education access.

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Academic Programs:

The context mentions the university's commitment to generating new knowledge in, for, and from Africa. It also highlights specific research achievements, such as identifying a new heart-attack gene and a landmark restitution of human remains. However, it does not provide a detailed list of academic programs offered at UCT.

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Other:

UCT is ranked among the top 1.3% of universities worldwide by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR). The university is actively involved in various initiatives to address global challenges, including climate change and healthcare access.