Museum Studies in University College Cork, Ireland

Museum Studies in University College Cork

A one-year taught masters degree (NFQ level 9), offered on a full-time basis through the Department of Archaeology and the Department of Management and Marketing in University College Cork. The aim is to provide a broad academic and professional training in all aspects of museum design, management and education, whilst encouraging students to reflect critically on the relevance of these institutions in the contemporary world. This MA is designed for those who wish to enter the museum or heritage centre profession In Ireland or abroad, or who wish to pursue PhD research in museology and related fields. The course provides a balance of theory and practice for students from a range of academic backgrounds, with emphasis on graduates of archaeology and history, and other closely cognate humanities and social science disciplines. The MA programme is made up of taught courses, supervised work placements in museums, the production of a temporary museum exhibition and a research dissertation. 

A 90-credit programme made up of taught modules (25 credits), two work placements (20 credits), museum exhibition (10 credits) and a research dissertation (35 credits)

Why Choose This Course

This degree represents the first museum training course offered by any third-level institution in the Republic of Ireland. There is considerable activity in the sector, with some 460 museums and heritage centres registered by the Irish Museums Associations. The diversity of museums at a national, regional/county and local level creates a demand for training and viable employment prospects. This MA course will enable students to develop their knowledge and understanding of the history, theory and practice of museums, and will prepare them for future employment in this sector. It will also support the museum profession through entry-level training and continuing professional development of existing staff.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

Students will undertake two museum placements (10 credits each) 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.

• AR6026 Museum Placement 1 (regional museum)
• AR6029 Museum Placement 2 (thematic and local museums)

The Department of Archaeology will arrange all work placements for students. Placements are unpaid and the costs of participation in terms of travel and accommodation expenses are borne by the student, and will vary depending on the location of the museum concerned.

Skills and Careers Information

This proposal supports a recognised profession within and outside of Ireland, one that has a strategic role in State policy on cultural heritage and tourism. Graduates will acquire a systematic and critical understanding of museum practice and theory. They will have acquired direct experience of practices, procedures and policies in the contemporary museum, and apply a critical awareness of current issues in the field (including professional ethics) to best professional practice. At an applied level the student will acquire an awareness of all that is involved in the design and management of modern museums.