NEW YORK UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
New York University's Institute of Fine Arts offers a unique dual degree program for students interested in the conservation of historic and artistic works, combined with a deep dive into the history of art and archaeology. This program prepares students for specialized roles in the preservation of cultural heritage. You'll gain expertise in material science, conservation techniques, and art historical analysis, with opportunities to focus on specific areas like paintings, objects, paper, photographs, or time-based media. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, culminating in a significant internship experience. This rigorous program requires a strong foundation in liberal arts, including undergraduate art history coursework. Students engage with leading conservators and scientists in the vibrant cultural landscape of New York City. Upon completion, graduates are equipped with advanced skills in conservation practice, ethical considerations, and the historical context of art and artifacts, making them well-prepared for careers in museums, archives, and conservation studios.
Curriculum
The program requires the completion of 73 credits, integrating conservation science, art history, and practical experience. Students specialize in a chosen area from their second year onwards. The curriculum includes core conservation courses, art history requirements, and extensive elective options. A significant component is a two-semester internship during the final year, designed to provide hands-on training in a conservation setting.
- Year 1
- Lecture: (Foundations I Requirement)FINH-GA 2046
- Material Science of Art & Archaeology IFINH-GA 2101
- Material Science of Art and Archaeology IIFINH-GA 2102
- Technology and Structure of Works of Art I: Organic MaterialsFINH-GA 2103
- Technology And Structure of Works of Arts II: Inorganic MaterialsFINH-GA 2104
- Art History Elective
- Year 2
- Instrumental Analysis IFINH-GA 2105
- Instrumental Analysis IIFINH-GA 2106
- Principles of ConservationFINH-GA 2107
- Preventive ConservationFINH-GA 2108
- Conservation Elective
- Art History Elective
- Year 3
- Directed Research towards the MA ThesisFINH-GA 3547
- Conservation Elective
- Art History Elective
Careers
Graduates of this program are prepared for a variety of roles in the field of art and artifact conservation, working to preserve cultural heritage for future generations.
- Art Conservator
- Archival Conservator
- Museum Conservator
- Conservation Scientist
- Art Historian
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology?
- Applicants normally need a liberal arts background, including at least four undergraduate art history courses. You must also meet the general requirements for the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS).
- How long does the Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology take to complete?
- The program requires the completion of 73 credits and is typically completed over three years, including a two-semester internship during the final year.
- What are the tuition fees for this program?
- Please refer to the GSAS Admissions website for current tuition rates, as tuition and fees are subject to change. The official NYU Bursar's Office should be consulted for the most up-to-date financial information.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Art Conservator, Archival Conservator, Museum Conservator, Conservation Scientist, and Art Historian, working to preserve cultural heritage.
- When is the application deadline for the Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is February 14.
Entry requirements
Liberal Arts BackgroundNormally including at least four courses of undergraduate art history.
Applicants must also meet the general requirements for the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS).
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the GSAS Admissions website for current tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the GSAS Admissions website for current tuition rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are available on the GSAS Admissions website.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Please consult the official NYU Bursar's Office for the most up-to-date financial information.
How to apply
1. Review General RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the general application requirements for the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS), which include academic transcripts, test scores (if required), applicant statements, resume/CV, letters of recommendation, and an application fee. Visit the GSAS Admissions website for detailed information.
2. Program-Specific RequirementsConsult the Fine Arts section on the GSAS Admissions website for admission requirements and instructions specific to this dual degree program.
3. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume or curriculum vitae, and at least three letters of recommendation. Ensure your undergraduate coursework includes the required art history background.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application through the GSAS Online Application Portal. Pay the non-refundable application fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology?
+
Applicants normally need a liberal arts background, including at least four undergraduate art history courses. You must also meet the general requirements for the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS).
How long does the Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology take to complete?
+
The program requires the completion of 73 credits and is typically completed over three years, including a two-semester internship during the final year.
What are the tuition fees for this program?
+
Please refer to the GSAS Admissions website for current tuition rates, as tuition and fees are subject to change. The official NYU Bursar's Office should be consulted for the most up-to-date financial information.
What are the career prospects after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Art Conservator, Archival Conservator, Museum Conservator, Conservation Scientist, and Art Historian, working to preserve cultural heritage.
When is the application deadline for the Master of Science/Master of Arts in Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works / History of Art and Archaeology?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is February 14.