Exploring the World of Cultural Heritage Conservator: A Guide to Pursuing a Level 7 Degree

Cultural heritage can be defined as the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a society that are inherited from past generations. The task of conserving cultural heritage is entrusted to professionals known as conservators. As the world becomes more conscious of the value of cultural heritage, there is a growing demand for professionals who have the expertise to preserve and conserve these precious artifacts. If you are passionate about history, art, and preservation, becoming a cultural heritage conservator could be the perfect career choice for you.

What is Cultural Heritage Conservation?

Cultural heritage conservation is the process of preserving and conserving objects, buildings, and other structures that have significant historical, cultural, or artistic importance. As a conservator, your role will be to protect and preserve these artifacts and ensure that they are passed on to future generations. This involves a wide range of tasks, including documentation, analysis, treatment, and preventive care.

Why Pursue a Level 7 Degree in Cultural Heritage Conservation?

A level 7 degree in cultural heritage conservation is an advanced qualification that provides students with specialized knowledge and skills in conservation practices. The degree program generally takes two years to complete and covers a wide range of topics, including materials science, documentation, ethics, and management. Pursuing a level 7 degree in cultural heritage conservation opens up a wealth of career opportunities, including positions in museums, galleries, historical societies, and government organizations.

Skills Required to Pursue a Level 7 Degree in Cultural Heritage Conservation

To excel in a level 7 degree in cultural heritage conservation, you will need a strong foundation in the following areas:

Art History and Theory

A deep understanding of art history and theory is essential for developing the expertise required to identify, analyze, and treat cultural heritage artifacts.

Materials Science

Conservators need a broad knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of materials to assess how they may degrade over time and devise treatment plans to prevent their deterioration.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

Accurate documentation and record-keeping are crucial for tracking the condition of cultural heritage artifacts over time and ensuring that they are preserved for future generations.

Research and Analysis

To make informed decisions about conservation treatment, conservators must have excellent research skills and the ability to analyze complex data.

Manual Dexterity

The practical aspects of conservation treatment require dexterity, patience, and meticulous attention to detail.

Career Opportunities for Cultural Heritage Conservators

A level 7 degree in cultural heritage conservation opens up a diverse range of career opportunities, including but not limited to:

Museum and Gallery Conservator

Conservators who work in museums and galleries are responsible for the care and preservation of the collections. This involves a range of tasks, including cleaning, documentation, and treatment.

Architectural Conservator

Architectural conservators focus on the preservation of buildings and other structures, ranging from historic homes to churches and civic buildings.

Heritage Site Manager

Heritage site managers are responsible for the care and management of historic sites, such as battlefields, archaeological sites, and heritage properties.

Conservator for Private Collections

Conservators who work with private collections may be employed by private collectors or auction houses to assess and treat artworks or other cultural heritage artifacts.

Conclusion

Becoming a cultural heritage conservator requires a passion for preserving cultural heritage and a commitment to excellence. Pursuing a level 7 degree in cultural heritage conservation is the first step towards building a career in this field. With a wide range of career opportunities available, cultural heritage conservation offers a fulfilling and rewarding career path for those with an interest in history, art, and preservation.