Inspiring MSc courses

This month we spoke to Kevin Stubbs, MSc Senior Programme Leader, about the inspiring MSc courses we have here at the Museum.

“Learning is an important part of what the Weald & Downland Living Museum offers to help conserve historic trades and crafts. As well as school visits and short courses, and everything from blacksmithing and weaving to cider making and illustration. The Museum also runs two MSc courses in building conservation and timber building conservation.

The Masters programme was launched in 1992 and I’ve been involved since then. I am now the MSc Senior Programme Leader for the Museum but my experience in teaching and history goes much further back with a professional background in education, archaeology and building conservation.

Run on a modular basis over 2 years and validated by the University of York, the MSc courses have been designed to be flexible so they suit those who are in full time work. We have seen a broad range of people undertake the courses including professionals such as architects, surveyors, specialist builders, plasterers, craftspeople, and project managers. Or homeowners who have got involved in restoring their own homes and want to take this interest further. Students come from all over the UK and further afield such as Scotland, Ireland and America.

There are only half a dozen building conservation courses in the country but none of them offer the same unique and inspiring learning environment. The award-winning Museum is known for its designated collection of historic buildings, many of which are timber framed. So students are surrounded by what they are actually learning about. Lectures take place in the buildings on-site including the wonderful Downland Gridshell. We also get to see historic trades in action with demonstrations such as brick & lime work, thatching and leadwork, with opportunities for students to get hands-on experience.

We try to create an immersive and interactive learning experience with a number of specialist guest lecturers, case studies and field trips. With such a unique mix of students from different professions and walks of life. Networking is equally as important so we can learn from each other, so there are regular coffee breaks and trips to the pub.

For those wanting to learn more about historic building conservation, there is nowhere else in the country that compares with the opportunities available at the Weald & Downland Living Museum.”

The next MSc courses start in September 2023 with the closing date for applications on 1 March 2023.

To find out more click here.