Architectural Conservation, Master Programme, 120 scp

Description

Architectural heritage is of growing interest in Sweden. Building heritage and building environments are important resources in a sustainable society, for identity, learning and economy. The concept of what cultural heritage is and the identification and assessment of values in architectural heritage is currently deepened and evolving.

For example, deeper knowledge about traditional building crafts and how a building originally was raised puts new values in focus. At the same time the importance of a site is not only determined by culture historical values, “new” values are also brought fourth, such as social, environmental or economic values. Understanding and articulating all these values are of importance when priorities are made; what to conserve and how to conserve it, in order to both protect the heritage and make it relevant in society.

Professionals from different fields; conservation specialists, architects, engineers, building managers, craftsmen and contractors are in charge of different parts of the conservation process and they all need to cooperate in a conservation or restoration project.

The Master programme in Architectural Conservation is a co-operation between Chalmers and Gothenburg University, offered as a part of Master of Science in Conservation at Gothenburg University and as a part of Master Programme Design for sustainable development at Chalmers.

The programme contains the following taught units over four semesters: History and Theory; Survey and Assessment; Conservation process and Conservation project. The units are delivered as a combination of courses with lectures, seminars and study visits. Philosophy of Conservation and methods used in building conservation historically, in Sweden and internationally are discussed. The studies develop the ability to understand buildings, their structure and construction and to identify and assess the significance of buildings and built environment.

Theoretical courses include research methodology and the programme prepares for studies at a research level at the Department of Conservation. The courses are offered at the Department of conservation in or at Chalmers.

The courses are linked to case studies which combines academic study and practical application. The case studies develop necessary skills while recording, describing and analyzing buildings, building crafts and built environment. In the case studies you also meet and cooperate with different professionals who are engaged in the conservation and restoration process.
Assessment is made by coursework, essays, report writing, written examination and projects in the case studies.

Entrance requirements

A Bachelors degree in Conservation or suitably qualified candidates from other fields including architects, landscape architects, archaeologists, planners, geographers, engineers, and historians.
Mode of selection: HV
Start: HT08, Day 100%, City: GÖTEBORG and MARIESTAD.