MPhil Book & Paper Conservation at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

A two-year Masters combining skills training, research, professional practice and applied science, with specialisms in Book and Archival Materials Conservation or Paper Conservation. Students work with the University's collections in the Kelvin Centre for Conservation and Cultural Heritage Research.

Department: Kelvin Centre for Conservation and Cultural Heritage Research | Duration: 24 months full-time | Intake: September | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 core courses include Principles and Practice in book and paper conservation, Understanding Book and Paper, Testimonies on Practice, Preventive Conservation and Art in the Making, with a summer placement. Year 2 covers advanced practice, Deconstructing the Artefact, Research Management and a dissertation.

Career pathways

Practising specialist conservator and/or cultural heritage researcher; roles in collections management, archives and arts administration.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2.1 Honours degree (or non-UK equivalent) in any subject; a 2.2 may be considered in a related subject or with other relevant experience. GCSE/Higher/international equivalent Chemistry (or Chemistry for Conservators, or a college/university chemistry course) is required. A short personal statement indicating the chosen specialism is required; applicants are interviewed and submit a portfolio of examples showing attention to detail and quality of finish (PDF, 3 days before interview), including a book- or paper-related example according to specialism. Prior conservation experience is not essential. Substantial relevant experience may replace formal qualifications. First interviews are held in early February 2027. International applicants from non-majority English-speaking countries: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0 (or equivalent: TOEFL iBT 92 overall for tests from 21 January 2026, PTE Academic test-centre 65 overall with no component below 60 except Speaking 65). Tests must be within 2 years 5 months of programme start.

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,500 a year (2027-28). Home & RUK full-time tuition fee Source

International applicants: GBP 30,390 a year (2027-28). International & EU full-time tuition fee Source

Intake: September

Duration: 24 months full-time

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