UNDERGRADUATE PREREQUISITES FOR ADMISSION INTO A CONSERVATION TRAINING PROGRAM
Introduction
Conservators are highly trained professionals with specialized knowledge and skills in sciences, humanities, and studio art, which enables them to undertake the study and treatment of cultural property. Working in the interdisciplinary field of conservation involves a variety of activities, such as carrying out technical and scientific studies, restoring the structure and reintegrating the appearance of deteriorated cultural artifacts, and establishing the controlled environments necessary for preservation. Many conservators devote their careers to the conservation of paintings, art on paper, textiles, library materials, photographs, sculpture, or decorative arts, and some work with architectural, archaeological, natural science and ethnographic materials. Others will contribute to the field as chemists, entomologists, architects, or engineers. Achieving professional expertise requires specialized advanced education, such as that offered through graduate level conservation training programs.
Graduate Conservation Training Programs
North American graduate programs in the conservation of cultural property offer Master's degrees and certificates or diplomas in conservation or related disciplines. All programs require four to six semesters in residence (or the equivalent) and some also require summer work projects. Typically, the final year of study is a full-time internship outside the classroom, which allows students the opportunity of working in their chosen specialties under the guidance of experienced conservators.
Undergraduate prerequisites in science, the humanities, and the arts
Prerequisites for admission to graduate conservation programs include coursework in science, the humanities (art history, anthropology, and archaeology), and studio art. Some schools consider previous working experience and gained expertise in conservation practice. Specific admission requirements differ and potential candidates are encouraged to contact the programs directly for details on prerequisites, application procedures, and program curriculum. With careful planning, an undergraduate curriculum can be tailored to satisfy the academic requirements of these graduate programs.
Science
One full year each of general and organic chemistry with laboratory work is typically required. These courses should usually be freshman and sophomore level requirements for chemistry and biology majors. Supplemental studies recommended, but not always required, often include biology, biochemistry, geology, materials science, physics, and mathematics.
Humanities
Broadbased coursework in art history, anthropology, and archaeology must cover various cultural traditions and historical periods. At least four to six courses are typically required. Sample subjects include:
African art
American art
Ancient civilizations
Art and crafts of Native South Americans
Art in the East and the West
Baroque art
Early Renaissance art
Greek and Roman art
History of architecture
History of textile design
Indian art
Introduction to art history
Introduction to ethnic arts
Introduction to prehistoric archaeology
Medieval art
19th-century art
Oceanic art
Technology and culture
20th-Century Art
Studio Art
Formal course work in drawing, painting, photography, and three-dimensional design (including, but not limited to, ceramics, metalworking, sculpture, and textile art) may be required. Upon application to a graduate conservation program, candidates are expected to present a portfolio demonstrating manual dexterity, knowledge of techniques, and an understanding and affinity for art materials.
Languages
Reading proficiency in one or two foreign languages may be required.
Additional Coursework
Courses in museum studies, drafting, and library science may also be recommended.
Professional Experience
In addition to coursework, candidates to graduate programs are strongly encouraged to have had some conservation experience. Internships, volunteer, apprenticeship, or paid work in regional, institutional, or private conservation laboratories is appropriate. Involvement in supervised collection care projects such as collection assessments, rehousing, and exhibition design, as well as examination and treatment of individual artifacts is encouraged. Above all, applicants are expected to be thoroughly acquainted with conservation as a career option and to have a fundamental knowledge of conservation philosophy, ethics, and basic working procedures.
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