The first semester of the programme comprises two core courses:

• Heritage and Memory Theory
  This module offers an introduction to some core texts in heritage and memory studies, so that you will acquire knowledge of the key theoretical concepts. You will develop skills in discourse analysis, critical reading of texts and conceptualising heritage and memory issues and learn to apply these skills to actual cases.
• Who Owns the Past?
  In this course, you will explore current and past conflicts concerning heritage and memory. You will gain insight into the appropriation of culture and (identity) politics that is at play in such disputes, as well as how giving voice to multiple narratives can potentially promote reconciliation and inclusivity. A range of assignments will serve to further develop your research skills.

You can tailor your study programme to your own interests by choosing from a broad range of electives offered by the Faculty of Humanities. See the Course Catalogue for an overview of Heritage and Memories Studies electives.

The final semester of the programme includes an excursion abroad which builds on  what you have learned during the first year of study and stimulates cross-pollination between the various insights and skills gained during the individual work-experience period. You will examine the theoretical and practical implications of site interpretations and the cultural, ethical and moral dilemmas inherent to heritage politics. The destination for the excursion will be announced in June of the first year of study. Previous destinations were cities located in the borderlands between two countries or regions.

A central component of the programme, the Master’s thesis enables you to write an original work of research under the supervision of one of the staff members. The research topic will be determined in consultation with the thesis seminar lecturer and your thesis supervisor.

The Dual Master's programme Heritage and Memory Studies offers a unique combination of practical experience, specialist knowledge and theoretical reflection, all of which come together in the extensive work-experience period.

Scope of the internship

During your internship in a heritage organisation you contribute to the realisation of a heritage project, be it through research, conceptual design or practical execution. You could be investigating the experience of certain urban or rural landscapes, organising events to increase community engagement in heritage protection, assisting in shaping governmental or non-governmental (international) heritage policy, or researching the cultural-historic contexts of heritage objects or sites. Your tasks could include those of an editor, event organiser, product developer or policy adviser.

How it works

As a student, you yourself are responsible for finding an internship organisation that matches your specific interests. In doing so, you begin to explore the professional field in which you will later be working. The programme coordinator provides advice and contacts throughout this process.

Be aware that many internships in the Netherlands require basic proficiency in the Dutch language. As such, you may also seek an English-language internship abroad. Also bear in mind that some internships might not be (adequately) paid.

Internship allowance

Students taking a dual Master's programme may in some cases be eligible for a reimbursement.

The University of Amsterdam–University of Bologna programme is an international Erasmus+ exchange programme for postgraduate students and staff. Bologna students and staff join the UvA programme in the first semester (September—January), while UvA students who are enrolled in the Dual Master's in Heritage and Memory Studies can participate in the programme during the second semester (February—June).

UvA students will have the opportunity either to follow courses or combine coursework with an internship (minimum 18 EC) in Bologna. If you wish to follow this trajectory, you can submit a plan of activities and a motivation letter to:

• Dr Tamara van Kessel, Master's programme coordinator
• Dr Ihab Saloul, Erasmus programme coordinator