KU LEUVEN · BELGIUM
Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 45+ years of experienceEstablished Centre
- Access to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in LeuvenUnique Location
- International and interdisciplinary approachLearning Environment
- Strong ties with UNESCO and ICOMOSGlobal Connections
- 90 ECTS credit programProgram Scope
- Fully taught in EnglishLanguage
This advanced Master's program, offered by the Raymond Lemaire International Centre for Conservation (RLICC), provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the field of heritage conservation. For over 45 years, RLICC has been a leader in training professionals to value and manage cultural heritage. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, small group study, and direct engagement with renowned experts and guest lecturers. Students will gain practical experience through lectures, site visits, and project work, fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Studying in Leuven, a city with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offers a unique learning environment. The program also leverages strong international connections with organizations like UNESCO and ICOMOS, as well as an extensive alumni network, preparing graduates for global careers.
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the field of built cultural heritage. Alumni have found success as independent professionals in preservation, restoration, and management. Many also assume leadership and policymaking positions within prominent conservation institutions such as UNESCO, ICOMOS, and the Council of Europe. The program also serves as a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue an academic career through doctoral studies (PhD).
- Preservation specialist
- Restoration expert
- Cultural heritage manager
- Policy advisor in conservation institutions
- Academic researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites?
- You need a relevant Master's degree or a five-year professional Bachelor's degree. Applicants whose previous diploma was obtained in an English-taught program in certain English-speaking countries may be exempt from English proficiency tests.
- How can I prove my English language proficiency?
- You can submit scores from IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 overall) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 79 overall). Test results must be available for online verification, and specific tests like MyBest™ scores are not accepted.
- What is the tuition fee for this program?
- KU Leuven's tuition fees are generally affordable due to government financing. Specific costs depend on your program and nationality; please use the university's tuition fee calculator for accurate information.
- How long does the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites program take to complete?
- This is a research-based Master's program that spans three semesters, equivalent to 90 ECTS credits.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites?
- The application period opens on October 16, 2025, for the 2026-2027 academic year. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens residing in Belgium, it's June 1, 2026.
- What career opportunities are available after completing this program?
- Graduates can pursue roles as preservation specialists, restoration experts, cultural heritage managers, policy advisors in conservation institutions, or become academic researchers. The program also prepares students for doctoral studies.
Entry requirements
Master's degree or five-year professional Bachelor's degreeA relevant Master's degree or a five-year professional Bachelor's degree is required. Other academic backgrounds may be considered upon direct contact with the program office.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall
TOEFL iBT79 overall
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) (C1)Not specified
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) (C2)Not specified
ITACE C1 or C2Not specified (only available in Belgium)
Applicants who have obtained their previous diploma in a program taught in English in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States are exempt from submitting an English proficiency test. MyBest™ scores for TOEFL and IELTS One Skill Retake™ scores are not accepted. Test results must be available for online verification.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are dependent on academic program and nationality. Please use the tuition fee calculator for the most accurate and official information.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are dependent on academic program and nationality. Please use the tuition fee calculator for the most accurate and official information.
LivingEstimated living and transportation expenses should be considered alongside tuition fees. Specific costs for this degree and general cost of living information are available.
KU Leuven's tuition fees are generally more affordable due to government financing in Belgium. Specific study costs for this degree and cost of living information are available on the university website. Payment is typically due two weeks after receiving the invoice; cash or credit card payments are not accepted.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsVerify the official and current admission requirements for the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites. This ensures your previous academic qualifications meet the program's criteria.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, diplomas, proof of English proficiency, and potentially a motivation letter or CV. Specific requirements can be found on the admissions website.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the KU Leuven online application portal. Pay close attention to the application deadlines.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe university will review your application. You will be notified of the admission decision.
5. Register and Pay FeesUpon admission, you will proceed with registration. An invoice for tuition fees will be issued, typically with a two-week payment deadline. Payment is not possible via cash or credit card.
Scholarships
KU Leuven ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
Not specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites?
+
You need a relevant Master's degree or a five-year professional Bachelor's degree. Applicants whose previous diploma was obtained in an English-taught program in certain English-speaking countries may be exempt from English proficiency tests.
How can I prove my English language proficiency?
+
You can submit scores from IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5 overall) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 79 overall). Test results must be available for online verification, and specific tests like MyBest™ scores are not accepted.
What is the tuition fee for this program?
+
KU Leuven's tuition fees are generally affordable due to government financing. Specific costs depend on your program and nationality; please use the university's tuition fee calculator for accurate information.
How long does the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites program take to complete?
+
This is a research-based Master's program that spans three semesters, equivalent to 90 ECTS credits.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of Conservation of Monuments and Sites?
+
The application period opens on October 16, 2025, for the 2026-2027 academic year. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens residing in Belgium, it's June 1, 2026.
What career opportunities are available after completing this program?
+
Graduates can pursue roles as preservation specialists, restoration experts, cultural heritage managers, policy advisors in conservation institutions, or become academic researchers. The program also prepares students for doctoral studies.