Tamrin Afroz

What motivated you to pursue this master's course in sustainable heritage management?

The decision to pursue a master's course in sustainable heritage management in the University of Liverpool has been motivated by a confluence of factors, shaped by my personal and academic background. My name is Tamrin Afroz, and I have completed my undergraduate studies in Architecture in Bangladesh. Throughout my architectural education, I developed a keen interest in the preservation and conservation of the historic built environment, which instilled in me a profound appreciation for the significance of heritage management.

The Master's in Sustainable Heritage Management at the University of Liverpool emerged as the ideal academic pathway for me, owing to its alignment with my prior educational pursuits. Situated within the esteemed School of Architecture, the course encompasses a diverse range of modules, surpassing the narrow confines of traditional conservation-focused programs. Notably, the curriculum extends its purview to encompass topics such as heritage policies & approaches, Islamic architecture, heritage documentation, and urban design, thereby broadening the scope of my knowledge and expertise in the field.

How would you describe your overall experience studying this master's course?

This program provided a remarkable platform for delving into my area of passion, namely the preservation and conservation of the historic built environment. Engaging in small walk and talk sessions at various historic sites, alongside the city of Liverpool itself, renowned for its historical significance and designation as a formal World Heritage Site, further augmented my experiential understanding of heritage management. The university campus, with its inclusion of listed buildings, created an immersive learning environment, where I could tangibly interact with and appreciate the significance of architectural heritage. I also had an opportunity to work for a student-led magazine for the School of architecture which helped to improve my previous knowledge. Guest lectures by industry experts, workshops, and field trips complemented the coursework, enabling a well-rounded understanding of the field. The university's strong ties with heritage organizations and professionals offered networking opportunities and insights into the practical aspects of sustainable heritage management.

How did the master's course in heritage management prepare you for future career prospects in the field?

The inclusion of a placement module within the course structure has been instrumental in solidifying my decision to choose the University of Liverpool. This unique opportunity to engage with the practical aspects of heritage management facilitates a meaningful connection with the professional realm, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the challenges and intricacies associated with heritage conservation in practice. After completing my placement, as I have been offered to continue with my placement organization I believe this will be a great learning experience which will prepare me for the future career prospect. 

Any advice for others interested in studying this master programme?

From an academic standpoint, the course was meticulously designed, blending theoretical concepts with practical applications to cultivate a comprehensive skill set in sustainable heritage management. The faculty members, distinguished in their respective fields, fostered an environment conducive to intellectual growth and critical inquiry. Collaborative discussions with fellow students, who shared a common enthusiasm for heritage, further enhanced the academic discourse and expanded my perspectives. I will always encourage others to pursue this master if they are interested in heritage management and my advice would be to think about the career path and choose optional modules according to that as they offer interdisciplinary modules from other departments as well and also to go for the placement as this will boost your confidence when you are applying for jobs. 

Post-this master programme? Any ideas of what you’d like to do next?

In general, my experience of studying sustainable heritage management at the University of Liverpool has been truly transformative. The program's interdisciplinary approach, combined with practical exposure and immersion in a historically rich environment, has deepened my appreciation for the importance of heritage preservation and equipped me with the skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in the field. I leave the program with a sense of purpose and a solid foundation to pursue a fulfilling career in sustainable heritage management, fueled by a continued commitment to the preservation and conservation of our cultural and architectural heritage in the relevant institutions.