MA (by Thesis)

On this page:

Entry requirements Written comment Thesis submission and length Thesis research and preparation Examination Further information

This post-graduate degree provides opportunities for the development of academic, research and writing skills in relation to questions, problems and topics in the broad field of Museum and Heritage studies and related subjects.

Entry Requirements

An approved Honours degree 

Or qualification through extensive practical, professional or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind;

And acceptance as a candidate for the degree.

Students admitted to the MA by thesis programme will normally have:

• an interest in art galleries, museums, cultural or natural heritage
• a strong research orientation
• an appropriate University qualification (usually in the humanities or the social sciences)
• relevant experience (for example the arts, museums, the heritage sector etc.).

Page Top

Written comment

Applicants are required to provide a written commentary (about 500 words) on the anticipated value to them of undertaking the MA degree course in Museum and Heritage Studies. Such comment should refer to a possible thesis topic and methodology. Candidates for the degree will be expected to choose a thesis topic that has theoretical and/or professional relevance to museum and heritage studies in such fields as:

Art and visual culture                             
Museum history and theory           
Culture and identity                                
Public history          
Cultural and natural heritage                 
Heritage conservation
Education and interpretation                  
Māori and Pacific heritage
Exhibitions and collections                    
Design and display
Audience and visitor research               
Historic places, sites and buildings
Management and marketing                 
Current museum practice

Page Top

Thesis submission and length

The thesis is presented for examination within 18 months of the candidate’s first full time enrolment or three years if the enrolment is part time.

The thesis should be 40,000 words, as a guide.

Thesis research and preparation

The research and writing of the thesis will be guided by a primary and secondary supervisor and possibly one or two advisors who are academic staff at Victoria University or another University and/or appropriately qualified professionals from the museum and heritage sector appointed by the Programme Director. These relationships are formalised in a written agreement which contains parameters, expectations, and ground rules for the process of supervision. Museum & Heritage Studies prides itself on a high completion rate which is the result of a closely managed process, realistic goals and a carefully planned schedule.

Page Top

Examination

When the thesis is completed, the thesis will be submitted to two examiners appointed by the Programme Director: an internal examiner who will normally be a Victoria University lecturer; and an external examiner who will be a person of standing in the field of study but not in the ordinary case on the VUW staff.

Page Top

Further information

Initial Discussion

Anyone intending to apply for admission is strongly advised to discuss the topic well in advance with the Programme Director and/or staff of Museum and Heritage Studies. It is expected that students will spend some time developing an initial proposal and that this proposal may be revised several times before being accepted prior to enrolling. See the Director for the proposal template, bibliography and other material. For international students, please consult Vic International:
www.victoria.ac.nz/international/

Further information is available online at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences website including the ‘Masters Guidelines’ document:
www.victoria.ac.nz/fhss/degrees/postgraduate.aspx/

Students enrolled for the MA by thesis will have access to the Museum and Heritage Studies staff and to other programme resources such as access to staff computers and other facilities in OK302. This includes a personal network H drive and staff email address if required. They will be encouraged to take part with other postgraduate students in appropriate gatherings and meetings – both academic and social. There is a strong postgraduate research culture in the programme with good links to staff and students at other universities and museums. The Graduate Research Group meets every month for workshops on related skills and topics such as writing, referencing, interviews etc. Students are expected to present their research at a combined seminar with Massey University every year.

Student with disabilities

The university has a policy of reasonable accommodation of the needs of students with disabilities in examinations and other assessment procedures. To make appropriate arrangements, contact the Programme Director or VUW's Disability Support Services, or contact Ava Gibson: Disability@vuw.ac.nz

Insurance

Students with concerns about insurance, especially relating to professional indemnity while in field work and practical placements, should seek advice from the Programme Director.

Further study

Successful completion of the MA (by thesis) Museum and Heritage Studies may provide a basis for subsequent study and research leading to the degree of PhD.

Page Top