Conservator

You can study a subject related to the type of conservation work you want to do.

Examples of conservation specialisms include:

• fine art
• architecture and heritage
• archaeology
• books and paper
• textiles
• human customs and cultures

You can also do postgraduate qualifications in conservation after completing a first degree.

The Institute of Conservation (ICON) has details of universities offering degree and postgraduate courses .

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship . These include:

• Collections Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Cultural Heritage Conservator Level 7 Apprenticeship, which is equivalent to a postgraduate degree

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

You may be able to move into certain types of conservation work if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, building conservation may be suitable if you're a qualified stonemason, plasterer or roofer.

You could also work as a collections technician in a museum or gallery, supporting conservation staff and curators. With further training, you could become a conservator.

You'll also have an advantage when looking for courses and jobs if you have work experience with a museum collection or at an historic site .

Career Tips

You could apply for The Institute of Conservation's internship programme . It can be a useful way to get practical experience after studying.

Further Information

You can find out more about careers in collections conservation from The Institute of Conservation.

You can also learn about artwork restoration through The British Association of Paintings Conservator-Restorers.

As a conservator, you could:

• assess the condition of items and plan conservation options
• keep written and digital records before, during and after work
• analyse items like paintings, using scans, x-rays and microscopic examinations
• use scalpels, cotton swabs and solvents to clean objects
• repair antique books and historical manuscripts
• restore items using traditional craft skills and materials
• manage display and storage conditions, like temperature and humidity
• give talks and presentations to visitor groups and professionals

You could work in a museum, in a workshop, in a laboratory, at a library or visit sites.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.