Prepare for a career in heritage and conservation management on a programme fully recognised by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC). This is the UK's leading body for building conservation practitioners and historic environment experts.
This MA challenges you to think about the meanings of heritage. You’ll explore sustainable heritage management in a range of contexts; architectural, urban, social, political, scientific and economic.
We’ll introduce you to the key concepts, principles and practices of sustainable heritage management and examine their application to sustainability, conservation, tourism and regeneration.
You’ll work in partnership with regional, national and international heritage organisations on real-world projects. Gaining practical experience with heritage professionals, you’ll establish valuable industry contacts.
An optional work placement provides the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a library, museum, historic property, or other cultural setting. Our heritage partners include organisations such as National Museums Liverpool, Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, Slate Museum Wales, Victoria Gallery & Museum and Port Sunlight Village Trust.
Learning from leading heritage academics and practitioners, you can further enrich your studies by getting involved in the activities of relevant research groups. These include the Heritage Theme, the ArCHIAM Centre and the Architectural and Urban History Group.
This master’s is suitable for graduates from a range of Arts and Design disciplines, including Architecture, Archaeology, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Civil/Structural Engineering, Project Management, Quantity Surveying, and History, who have a passion for heritage and conservation management.
This course is fully recognised by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) – the UK’s leading body for building conservation practitioners and historic environment experts – and covers its areas of competence. The programme also follows the education guidelines of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), UNESCO and Council of Europe requirements.
As a graduate of a course fully recognised by the IHBC, you’ll be eligible to apply for full IHBC membership after two years of professional experience instead of the usual minimum of five.
The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) is the UK's leading body for building conservation practitioners and historic environment experts.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| HERITAGE PERSPECTIVES AND POLICIES (ARCH735) | 15 |
| HERITAGE MANAGEMENT: APPROACHES AND METHODS (ARCH736) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH METHODOLOGY (ARCH707) | 15 |
| HERITAGE MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (ARCH738) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
You must choose one of ARCH721 or ARCH722. You will only study one of these modules, not both.
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| THESIS: DISSERTATION (ARCH721) | 60 |
| THESIS: RESEARCH BY DESIGN (ARCH722) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The majority of the modules will be taught within the Liverpool School of Architecture (LSA), with four elective modules taught within the departments of History and Philosophy. The programme is designed to allow equal opportunities for students both with and without prior specialist architectural training, as it is open to students from different background with interest in heritage.
In addition to the mandatory modules, all students can select from a range of optional modules that provide deeper knowledge of a specific topic or area in heritage studies. The modules are taught in a variety of ways – traditional lectures centred on fundamental principles and heritage applications, group discussions in workshops, flipped classroom, guided independent study, tutorials, hands-on workshops, discussions with heritage specialists and practitioners, learning from case studies and field trips.
Additionally, the placement opportunities with different heritage institution will help the studnets to develop their work skills.
The assessment strategies for the modules incorporated in this MA programme reflect the variety of teaching approaches used, and include poster submissions, analytical reports, essays, sustainable heritage management plan, heritage design project, oral and practical presentations, and a research dissertation or a design project led by research.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
This course offers a placement opportunity so you can combine your studies with practical experience with industry professionals. It is a great way to develop key employability skills and get a head start in your career with key industry partners. View more information on the course page.
The Liverpool School of Architecture benefits from comfortable, well-lit studio, work and seminar/review spaces, including a ‘hi-tech’ design studio, to which you will have 24-hour access.
Our facilities include a Print Media Design Suite, computing labs, workshops, a laser suite, a CNC router room, 3D printers, computing labs and research labs. A team of dedicated technicians will help you to get the most of these facilities and to realise your ideas.
Programme leader Dr Ataa Alsalloum and Brett, a current student, introduce the MA Sustainable Heritage Management.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
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.
Upon the completion of this master’s programme, it has allowed me to gain a job back home in Gibraltar as an archaeologist for the local museum which would not have been possible if it had not been for this master’s course.
The course covered legal, technological, and societal challenges in heritage management giving a holistic approach to the topic. It encouraged students to explore your own case studies and areas of interest whilst providing and IHBC accredited course.
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Providing the students with a clear career path, this programme will offer multidisciplinary and inter-disciplinary research and practice options and open opportunities for placement at a variety of institutes and locations, nationally and internationally. This programme will provide graduates with a critical understanding of both the theoretical and operational aspects of heritage, and an informed use of lessons from the past to enhance the present. The interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary nature of sustainable heritage management studies leads to creativity and enterprise.
Graduates will have an acute awareness of the moral and ethical issues that are inherent in heritage, which contributes to skilful negotiation of contested matters. These abilities are valued by employers, both academics and heritage agencies. The breadth of this programme widens the spectrum of employment opportunities. This programme is designed to meet the training requirements to equip the students with the skills and knowledge for further study towards an MPhil/PhD. Additionally, the full recognition by the IHBC and placement opportunities enhance the student’s ability and their profile to work in a wide range of professional roles. Recent graduates of similar programmes have gone on to work in the heritage policy field and/or project related-areas for national and international organisations, such as IHBC, RICS, English Heritage, the National Trust, ICOMOS and UNESCO
Potential career pathways include, but are not limited to, the roles of:
You could apply to work for UK government agencies, such as English Heritage and Historic Scotland.
International opportunities also abound, working for heritage organisations in their respective countries, or international heritage charities such as:
The programme also equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to continue your studies and work towards an MPhil or PhD.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £12,500
Part-time place, per year - £6,250
Full-time place, per year - £30,000
Part-time place, per year - £15,000
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
If you’re a British Muslim, active within a Muslim community and dedicated to bringing positive change to society, you could apply to potentially have the full cost of your master’s tuition fees covered by an Aziz Foundation Scholarship.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in Architecture or a closely related subject (e.g. Archaeology, History, Arts, Politics, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Design, Project Management, Geography, Anthropology). A minimum of two years’ work experience is desirable but not necessary. Applicants with degrees of a lower classification but who have considerable senior-level professional experience may also be accepted. For those applicants without a first degree or full professional membership, but with relevant and substantial work experience in the field, a special qualifying examination/interview may be set. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
If you have any questions about the course content please get in touch with the programme director.
Last updated 20 March 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions