Art Conservation Graduate Programs
Enrol in Art Conservation Graduate Programs
Those interested in art conservation graduate programs must realize that the work involves an equal mix of schooling and interning. Students in these programs attend school during the fall, winter, and spring semesters, and then spend summer months working in the field. This provides students with the best possible education and hands-on experience. Typical art conservation graduate programs require a full three years of study, but the work itself is highly rewarding. Art conservation ranges from restoring antique furniture to restoring paintings. The career is specialized and requires a steady hand and impeccable eye for detail.
Before you can even enroll in an art conservation graduate program, you must pass a GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and prove that you hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Typically, enrolling students must have received around 20 art history credits, 16 chemistry credits, and 9 art credits received in a studio setting. Those who meet these requirements then enter into the art conservation graduate programs and complete the requirements to receive their degree.
Most art conservation graduate programs require an additional 55 to 60 credits. Coursework is difficult and requires a strong interest in both art and science. Courses in art conservation graduate programs may seem tedious as many of these classes require the same principles; but they start with the basics and become very advanced. Most art conservation graduate programs start with learning how to examine antiques or paintings, documenting the process needed to make repairs, and then keeping records of the restoration work.
Students in this field also learn about the materials uses in restoration projects, how the chemicals react with one another, and how to prevent mishaps with the materials. Courses in art conservation graduate programs continue into working with drawings, sketches, oil paintings, acrylic paintings, watercolors, furnishings, ceramics, pottery, and knowing how to repair or restore each item in the correct manner. Finally, students will learn how to deal with the public in a professional, courteous manner and will work in an internship to put their classroom skills to the test.
