Museum Studies MA / MSc, by distance learning – scholarships available

Museum Studies MA / MSc, by distance learning

Course description:

The MA or MSc in Museum Studies by distance learning offers the opportunity to earn a postgraduate degree in Museum Studies, preparing you for a career in museums and galleries, or for further academic research. The course emphasises practical museum experience and incorporates world-leading teaching and research.

This degree covers essential aspects of museum studies, including the definition and purpose of museums, the interpretation and preservation of objects, and effective communication with audiences. You will receive expert training in research and professional skills and can specialise in subjects like heritage, museum education, digital technologies, or museums and the natural environment. The course includes study visits, guest speakers from the field, and the chance to curate personal exhibitions.

You will also have the freedom to conduct your own research project, which can be presented as a dissertation, paper, critique or professional report. The course culminates in a practical module where you will work on a project at a museum, gallery or heritage site, gaining real-world experience and establishing valuable connections in the industry.

Course structure:

Core modules encompass topics such as the impact of change on museums, designing for creative engagement, care and curation of objects and collections, and audience engagement. Optional modules include lifelong learning, museums and the natural environment, heritage, digital technologies, contemporary issues, and practical experience. The teaching combines lectures, seminars, practical workshops, online tasks, and individual study, with frequent visits to museums across the country. You can take advantage of a network of 20 associate tutors who are all museum professionals working in the sector.

Teaching and learning:

Assessment methods are diverse, accommodating different learning needs, and include coursework such as written assignments, presentations, briefing papers and reports. A supervised research project culminates in an 8,000-word dissertation or an equivalent piece of work.

The course prides itself on innovative teaching techniques, providing ample contact time with the teaching team, and fostering connections with industry professionals.

Financial support

A postgraduate qualification by distance learning is a great investment in your future. At Leicester we offer a range of financial benefits to partially offset the cost of your degree, including a Merit Scholarship, an Alumni Scholarship and a Full Fee Instalment Incentive.