Master of Museum and Heritage Studies (Advanced)

The Master of Museum and Heritage Studies (Advanced) at Australian National University in Canberra is a specialised postgraduate degree designed for students aspiring to deepen their expertise in the fields of museums, heritage, and the material culture sector. The programme encompasses advanced study in contemporary museum and heritage theory and practice, conservation, collection management, interpretation, and cultural policy, with a particular emphasis on Australian contexts and the Asia-Pacific region.

Structured over 1.5 years of full-time study, students are required to complete a series of advanced units of study and accrue a specific number of credit points as per university requirements. An important feature of the 'Advanced' stream is the opportunity to undertake a substantial research thesis or capstone project alongside coursework. This component is ideal for those considering a progression to doctoral study or aiming to develop research skills that are valued in leadership roles within the sector.

The programme offers options for work-integrated learning, including possibilities for professional placement in Australia's vibrant museum, gallery, or heritage organisations. Situated in Canberra, home to major national cultural institutions, students benefit from strong industry links and proximity to policy-making agencies and collections of global significance. The course is suitable for graduates from diverse backgrounds, current museum or heritage professionals, and those seeking a career transition into these fields.

Upon graduation, students will have developed expertise in curatorship, collection management, heritage preservation and interpretation, and cultural leadership, equipping them with both theoretical and practical skills required by employers in Australia and internationally. Prospective students should verify specific course structure, unit requirements and English language equivalencies on the official university page.

• Museum curator or collections manager
• Heritage site manager or consultant
• Exhibition designer or interpretation officer
• Cultural policy adviser
• Public programs or education coordinator in museums or galleries
• Heritage research or cultural project officer
• Roles in government, NGOs, and heritage conservation agencies

Graduates are sought after in national and regional museums, galleries, government agencies, cultural policy bodies, heritage consultancies, and preservation organisations across Australia's extensive heritage and museum sector.