Archaeology: MA Heritage and Museum Studies

Introduction

Today, in many parts of the world, archaeologists are encountering diverse forms of cultural and environmental continuity. This living heritage of ours offers valuable opportunities for innovative research that may throw light on the meaning and function of archaeological artefacts and historic monuments, as well as landscapes with deep histories.

The MA Heritage and Museum Studies consists of 2 focus areas (also see the tabs above):

• Heritage Management in a World Context

• Heritage and Museum Studies

Heritage Management in a World Context

Heritage Management in a World Context

In this focus area you will trace the roots and developments of archaeological heritage management, on land and under water.
You will learn about current approaches and ethical issues and you will experience some of these in daily practice. Attention will be paid to international treaties and organisations and issues such as ownership, values, stakeholders, repatriation, looting, and commercial archaeology.

Contemporary dilemmas of archaeological heritage management will also be addressed in depth. They relate to subjects such as public archaeology, site management, and heritage protection in conflict zones. You will meet challenging guest lecturers, with whom you can discuss the issues and dilemmas that heritage managers face. Working with professional heritage managers will give you the ideal opportunity to enhance your network.

Staff
Dr. M.H. (Monique) van den Dries Dr. M.R. (Martijn) Manders

Heritage and Museum Studies

Heritage and Museum Studies

This focus area offers you the opportunity to explore a range of different approaches and issues in cultural politics and cultural theory as relevant to modern museum practices from an archaeological perspective.

Heritage and Museum Studies in Leiden is especially attractive because of the long-standing traditions in academic and museum work. Three large national museums (the National Museum of Antiquities, the Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Ethnology) were founded in Leiden at the beginning of the 19th century.

Museum practices and academic research have always been closely related. Many research programmes involve both researchers from the university as well as researchers from the Leiden museums. In addition, these museums have been more and more involved in ethical issues concerning ownership and mobility of collections and politics of museums and collecting.
The unique combination of practical experience and high-quality academic research offers you a dynamic, contemporary environment in a 200-year tradition.

Staff
Dr. M. (Mariana) de Campos Françozo
Dr. G.D.J. (Genner) Llanes Ortiz Dr. I.R. (Ian) Simpson