Conservation with Specialisation in Conservation of Cultural Heritage Objects, Master's Program
Summary
The Master’s Program in Conservation of Cultural Heritage Objects provides an opportunity to specialise within the field of Conservation. In the academic year of 2026/2027, we offer mural paintings and stone as a specialisation. The program provides a deep level of knowledge and critical understanding, and specialised practical skills for conducting conservation treatments. Upon completing the program, you will be able to take and implement conservation decisions to the highest level, both from a practical and an ethical point of view.
About
Preserving works of art is necessary for the appreciation of our tangible heritage by future generations. Materials used to produce works of art are often intrinsically susceptible to chemical degradation; conservation aims to stabilise and understand how we can preserve cultural heritage and works of art. Working as a conservator, you contribute to the Global Goals by keeping the cultural heritage accessible and alive for future generations. By preserving objects, interiors, and building elements, you continuously work towards target 11.4, which is about strengthening efforts to protect and safeguard the world's cultural and natural heritage.
A unique opportunity to specialise
At the Master's Program in Conservation of Cultural Heritage Objects with specialisation in Mural Paintings and Stone you will develop methodological and technical skills while incorporating critical thinking in conservation. The program provides a deep level of knowledge and critical understanding, and specialised practical skills for conducting conservation treatments. At our 2-year multidisciplinary programme, you also learn how to effectively collaborate with different professionals in the framework of a multidisciplinary team, and how to address the challenges of climate change and the increased demand for access to works of art in exhibitions.
Our courses contain a balance of theoretical and practical subjects, with a strong emphasis on practical and site work. Upon completing the program, you will be able to take and implement conservation decisions to the highest level, both from a practical and an ethical point of view.
Advanced analytical methods
The program also offers practical, in-depth analytical, and documentation studies for diagnosis and characterisation of historical objects in:
- Documentation, photography, and video production;
- 3D modelling;
- Technical photography;
- Multi-Band Imaging (MBI)
- X-Ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF);
- Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR);
- Raman spectroscopy, and
- Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS).
European professional standards
The master’s program is given in accordance with the European professional standard for conservation developed by the European Confederation of Conservators-Restorers Organisations (E.C.C.O.) and the European Network for Conservation/Restoration Education (ENCoRE). This allows you to work both in Sweden and internationally.
A firm grounding in research and collaboration
The Department of Conservation has a strong historical position in Sweden and has been operating for over four decades. Internships and student research are based on a strong network of collaborations with national and international organisations including the Swedish National Heritage Board (RAA).
Programme structure and content
Throughout the program, you will participate in lectures, seminars, tutorials, and laboratory work. The first year is comprised of courses within the main field of study, and the second year is dedicated to an internship and a research-based thesis project. The program combines science, practical conservation, and research and is taught by experienced conservators, conservation scientists, and international guest lecturers.
Environmental work at the program
In the master’s program, you use different types of solvents, chemicals, and single-use items to preserve cultural heritage objects. The University has agreements with enterprises that recycle chemicals and waste, and we use green solvents or the most environmentally friendly option in our courses. We have a policy for dealing with single-use items and during your studies, you are introduced to sustainable practices within the field of conservation.
Who should apply?
Are you aiming towards an international career in conservation? Are you a working professional who wants to broaden your skillset to include cutting-edge methodologies in conservation?
The Master's Program in Conservation is of relevance to graduates in Conservation wishing to specialise in the conservation of mural paintings and stone, and looking to get a holistic understanding of practical conservation.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
A Bachelor's degree in Conservation. Students with equivalent education may, after examination, be admitted to the program. Applicants must prove their knowledge of English: English 6/English B from Swedish Upper Secondary School or the equivalent level of an internationally recognized test, for example TOEFL, IELTS.
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
After graduation
Graduates receive the degree Master of Science (120 credits) with a major in Conservation with Specialisation in Conservation of Cultural Heritage Objects and studies at the program make you eligible for future academic studies.
The master’s program is given in accordance with the European professional standard for conservation which opens up for work both in Sweden and internationally. Our former students work in museums, private conservation studios and libraries. Former students have also started their own businesses.
Facilities
Our teaching is held in the building Natrium in the centre of Gothenburg.
