Art Conservation Degrees

A career in art conservation occupies the middle ground between artist and scientist. It deals with fine art, including paintings, textiles, architecture and sculptures, by addressing the materials that these works are made of and how best to protect them from degradation. Chemistry knowledge is useful, and such classes are a prerequisite for some programs, such as the master of arts at Queen's University. Art knowledge and a sensitivity to aesthetic value are advantages to a conservationist, but even more important is knowing how materials interact, age and decay. This knowledge allows conservationists to counteract the decline of paint, metal, fabric and wood and to help artworks survive longer.
  1. Queen's University

    • The art conservation program at Queen's University is the only graduate-level program in Canada, offering a master's in art conservation. Although previous experience in conservation is not required, most students accepted to the program do have experience, and a portfolio is expected as part of the application process.

      Classes include conservation principles; properties of materials; photographic technology in conservation; instrumental methods of analysis; and history, technology and conservation of artifacts, paintings, contemporary art, and paper objects. Internships are also offered.

      Department of Art, Ontario Hall
      67 University Ave.
      Kingston, ON
      CANADA K7L 3N6
      613-533-6166
      queensu.ca

    University of Pennsylvania

    • The program at the University of Pennsylvania offers a master of science in historic preservation, focused on the study and preservation of buildings and landscapes of historical significance. Students study issues such as condition diagnosis, site analysis, design and landscape preservation. Career opportunities following this program range from university positions to careers in government, archaeology and architecture, or as independent design and preservation consultants.

      The curriculum includes classes in the fields of preservation planning, landscape preservation and preservation design. A student internship in the summer between the two years of study is a requirement of the program.

      University of Pennsylvania
      3451 Walnut St.
      Philadelphia, PA 19104-6243
      215-898-5000
      upenn.edu

    Buffalo State University

    • Buffalo State University offers a three-year program in art conservation, of which the first two years are on-campus and the third is an internship at a museum, institution or private practice. The curriculum includes the study of documentation, examination and conservation science. It focuses on paper, paintings and objects. Following their third-year internship, students return to the campus for a presentation on their work and research.

      Classes include conservation science; techniques of examination and documentation; and technology and conservation of paintings, paper and objects.

      Buffalo State University
      1300 Elmwood Ave.
      Buffalo, NY 14222
      716-878-4329
      buffalostate.edu

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