University of East Anglia (UEA), MA, Museum Studies

Art History and World Art Studies runs one of the longest-established programmes in Museum Studies in the UK – and the only one based inside an art gallery, the Norman Foster-designed Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts (SCVA). The course combines the cutting-edge research and curatorial experience of our academic staff with the professional resources and experience of the SCVA. It also draws on resources in London and in the region, notably the Norfolk Museums Service, and incorporates a number of museum visits and expert speakers. Students undertake a year-long work placement in tandem with their degree.

A maximum intake of 12 students per year means that the course is student-centred and offers intensive preparation for either a career in the museum profession or a higher research degree in museum studies. Students gain an understanding of the history and theory behind museums plus hands-on training in all aspects of museum work – conservation and curation; education and outreach; exhibition design and visitor services; and governance, legal frameworks, marketing and development. Employability is central to the programme, with exposure to a wide range of career options and contact with professionals from across the sector.

The MA is available full-time. Throughout the degree, students spend one to two days a week on a tailored, individual placement with a local museum; up to four students receive Museum Studies Internships for placements in the SCVA. The taught components of the course bring together in-depth historical and theoretical approaches to museums with practice-based modules addressing the public role of the museum, collections management and interpretation, with an emphasis on topical issues and responsive engagement. 

Why Choose UEA?

UEA is a Top 20 UK university. Everything UEA does from investing in its campus, to undertaking ground-breaking research, is done with the intent of giving students everything they need to thrive. UEA leads the way in fields as diverse as climate change, social work, creative writing, international development, food science and much more. At UEA students are taught by world experts who are leading the way in their fields and who are dedicated to helping them achieve their potential.