INTRODUCTION

WORLD HERITAGE STUDIES is an innovative study programme that combines a wide range of academic disciplines and aims to train future professionals in the field of cultural and natural heritage.

The safeguarding and development of natural and cultural assets, as well as their presentation and dissemination to the public are important tasks for present and future generations. Since the  Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage was adopted by UNESCO’s General Conference in 1972, more than 900 cultural and natural properties all over the world have been nominated as World Heritage sites. One of the most important issues in this context is the increasing demand for trained experts who could ensure that these sites of outstanding universal value are protected and sustainably managed.

The international Master’s programme World Heritage Studies was conceived to meet this demand. Its interdisciplinary curriculum combines studies on culture and nature, tangible and intangible heritage, conservation and development, cultural discourse and site management. Via the UNESCO Chair in Heritage Studies, it is embedded in the worldwide network of UNESCO Chairs. The programme receives support from UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre in Paris and the German Commission for UNESCO and cooperates with many other heritage organisations all over the world.

The four-semester study programme consists of courses offered in four module areas, two study projects and the Master's thesis.

Module Areas

1. Humanities and Social Sciences
2. Arts, Architecture and Conservation
3. Natural Heritage and Cultural Landscapes
4. Management

Career Opportunities

The programme aims to provide students with a varied set of professional skills and at the same time allows them to specialise in a particular area of interest. Graduates will be qualified to work for international organisations, national authorities and private institutions where they will develop concepts and strategies for the conservation, rehabilitation and promotion of heritage sites.

As managers, they will be able to design and implement plans for the protection and development of heritage properties. They will create models for sustainable tourism around heritage sites and will contribute to a better understanding between visitors and local communities.

As consultants, they will work for museums and heritage sites, developing didactic concepts and presentation strategies for various target groups. They will act as ambassadors for a new understanding of World Heritage, aiming to broaden access to World Heritage for those who do not participate in or identify with traditional cultural activities.