Conservation of Material Culture University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Overview

The Conservation of Material Culture at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a premier doctoral programme designed for scholars dedicated to the preservation of global heritage. This interdisciplinary course of study bridges the gap between scientific analysis and the cultural contexts of material objects.

Students engaged in this Ph.D. track explore the complex relationship between the physical composition of artefacts and their historical significance. The curriculum is designed to foster high-level research skills, enabling graduates to contribute original findings to the field of conservation science and cultural heritage management.

The programme is hosted within a dedicated department that emphasises the technical and ethical challenges of maintaining material integrity over time.

Why Conservation of Material Culture at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)?

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers an unparalleled environment for heritage studies, situated within a world-class research institution. The programme is closely affiliated with the Fowler Museum, providing students with direct access to significant collections and professional expertise in a laboratory setting.

The faculty consists of leading experts in the conservation of cultural heritage, offering mentorship across diverse specialisations. This collaborative atmosphere ensures that doctoral candidates benefit from a wide range of perspectives, from archaeological science to the ethnographic study of material traditions.

Furthermore, the university provides extensive resources through its specialised research centres and the registrar’s comprehensive course offerings. These facilities support advanced investigations into the chemical and physical properties of materials, ensuring that research is conducted at the forefront of modern conservation technology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 36297 per year
• National fee: USD 36297 per year
• Local fee: USD 21115 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Conservation of Cultural Heritage
• Cultural Materials Science: Analytical Imaging and Documentation in the Conservation of Materials
• Science of Conservation Materials and Methods
• Principles, Practice and Ethics in the Conservation of Cultural Heritage Materials
• Environmental Protection for Museums, Libraries, and Archives

Careers with Conservation of Material Culture

Graduates of this programme are prepared for distinguished careers as conservation scientists, heritage consultants, and academic researchers. The deep expertise gained at the university allows alumni to influence policy and practice within major cultural institutions and global preservation agencies.

Many doctoral recipients find opportunities in senior curatorial roles or as lead conservators in national museums and private galleries. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree also opens pathways into materials science research and the management of international archaeological sites and monuments.