Cultural Heritage University of Aberdeen

Overview

Why Cultural Heritage at the University of Aberdeen?

The University of Aberdeen is a distinguished institution, ranked 3rd in the UK for Anthropology and Archaeology according to the Guardian University Guide 2025. It is also recognised in the Global Top 100 for Archaeology by QS World University Rankings 2024. The university's strategic location in Aberdeenshire provides access to numerous archaeologically significant sites, enhancing the learning experience for students. Furthermore, the university maintains strong partnerships with local, national, and international heritage organisations, facilitating valuable opportunities for students to engage in real-world projects and fieldwork.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

- UK Students: £10,000 per year - International Students: £22,000 per year - Alumni Discount: £7,000 for University of Aberdeen graduates Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The MSc in Cultural Heritage encompasses a comprehensive curriculum, with a blend of compulsory and optional courses, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. The programme includes:

• Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen
• Managing the Past: Heritage Politics and Practice
• Managing the Present: Heritage Communities and Representation
• Research Project in Cultural Heritage
• Optional courses such as Decolonising Museums, Northern Worlds, and Arts Management and Content Creation

Students may choose from three distinct pathways:

• Culture and Museums Pathway: Focuses on collections management, heritage tourism, and policy.
• Heritage Sector Pathway: Prepares students for roles in heritage agencies and archaeological sites.
• Archaeological Heritage Pathway: Concentrates on archaeological research and preservation techniques.

Careers with Cultural Heritage

Graduates of the MSc in Cultural Heritage are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for diverse roles within the heritage sector. Alumni have successfully secured positions as curators, field archaeologists, heritage managers, and museum officers. The programme also lays the groundwork for those interested in pursuing further studies at the PhD level. Students benefit from the university's extensive network, which includes collaborations with various cultural and conservation bodies, enhancing their employability in a competitive job market. Through this programme, graduates are well-prepared to tackle contemporary challenges in heritage management and community engagement.