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Study museums and heritage

This subject area brings together art history, history, classics and archaeology, in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that explore how the past, its culture and its objects are encountered today in museums, galleries, heritage organisations, the media and public policy.

When you study with us, you will explore museum cultures, curating, collections management and public histories, as well as developing key critical, theoretical and practical skills. An optional work placement module for MA students offers the opportunity for gaining valuable practical experience of working in the museums and heritage sector.

Come and meet us

If you're looking to start studying with us in October 2026, or are looking ahead to 2027, join us for our Postgraduate Open Evening on 18 March or Undergraduate Open Day on 13 June.

If you can't make these dates, come along to one of our campus tours.

'I was drawn to the Museum Cultures course because it applies thinking and theory to cultural institutions and museums.'

Listen to what it's like to study on the MA Museums Cultures programme at Birkbeck.

View our museums, heritage and curating courses

Museums and heritage at Birkbeck

Museums and Heritage Courses

If you're fascinated by museums and history and would like to combine this interest with your career aspirations, we offer dedicated courses in the subject. View our programmes.

Work placements

Some of our postgraduate courses offer work placements, so you can gain valuable practical experience of working in museums, galleries and archives.

Peltz Gallery

Our specially designed Peltz Gallery hosts guest-curated displays, small-scale performances, lectures and events.

Arts Week

Arts Week is an annual series of events showcasing the latest creativity and research from Birkbeck.

Meet our staff

"I organise work placements, and our partner institutions really value Birkbeck students because they are highly motivated and bring so much prior experience to the role." Professor Fiona Candlin

Find out more

Meet the team supporting you

Contact us

Contact us if you need specific course advice that's not available on our site or if you're a PhD student with research enquiries.

Staff list

Browse a list of the academic staff teaching you as well as the school staff who can provide help and guidance.

Open days

Come to Birkbeck and visit us in central London or watch an online campus tour.

More reasons to choose Birkbeck

Top reasons to choose Birkbeck

If you have the ability and drive to succeed, find out how Birkbeck’s study options and outstanding support can help you achieve the university education you want.

Student services

Birkbeck offers a range of services to current students, including disability support, financial support and academic support.

Student funding

Find out more about advice, support and funding opportunities for Birkbeck students at undergraduate, postgraduate and MPhil/PhD levels.

How to apply

Find out how to apply for any of our courses, including details about work experience, personal statements and supporting documents.

International students

If you're an international student wishing to study at Birkbeck, find out about our entry requirements, English language requirements and how to apply.