Art conservation is an exciting and challenging multidisciplinary field involving the examination, interpretation, analysis and conservation of cultural, historic and artistic objects. Queen’s University offers Canada’s only Master’s degree program in art conservation. This program provides the foundation necessary for professional conservation scientists and conservators who must rely on their knowledge of both the humanities and the sciences to understand the creation and production of material culture in past and present contexts and to ensure its preservation for the future. Research is individually designed to suit the background and interests of students and faculty. Topics may be in history of technology or other conservation related areas.
A two-year research program is offered to science and engineering graduates, leading to a career in conservation science. A one year mid-career research stream is also available to practising conservators with at least five years of experience.
Opportunities
Students in the research streams may have opportunities to work with humanities, science, and engineering departments at Queen’s and may undertake projects with museums, galleries, archives, the Canadian Conservation Institute, and industrial partners. Research students may undertake a 12-week summer research internship in Canada or abroad, depending upon the focus of their research.
Method of Completion
Research Streams (Pattern 1): Four advanced lecture courses, original research, a thesis, and a thesis examination, with no conservation treatment component. The thesis exam committee shall comprise at least the following members: Chair of Committee who is the Head of the Department (or Head’s Delegate possibly from outside Department); Supervisor(s); and at least one other faculty member, who may be from the department, external to the department or in exceptional circumstances, external to Queen’s.
Career paths - employment opportunities
M.A.C. research graduates work in conservation research facilities, art galleries, museums, archives, and related cultural institutions. Students can also pursue doctoral programs in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Expected September 2024
Faculty of Arts and Science
Dunning Hall - First Floor,
94 University Avenue,
KINGSTON,
Ontario (ON),
K7L 3N6, Canada
Academic Requirements
English language requirements
Applicants must have TOEFL Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT): The minimum overall score is 88, made up of the minimum scores in each component test as follows: Writing test: 24/30; Speaking test: 22/30; Reading test: 22/30; Listening test: 20/30; MELAB: 80 (minimum overall score); IELTS: 7 (minimum score, academic module); PTE Academic: 65 (minimum overall score).