Heritage conservation has been a programme area of the MA in Canadian Studies for over thirty years. In 2023, the School launched the MA in Canadian Studies with Concentration in Heritage Planning and Studies.
The programme has a strong focus on local community heritage and engages regularly with government agencies, professionals in private practice, and advocacy groups, with guest speakers playing important roles in presenting students with the diversity of stakeholders and rightsholders involved. The annual heritage conservation symposium provides graduate students with opportunities to connect critical theories with community and practice perspectives.
Students interested in following the Major Research Essay or Thesis option should discuss their intentions with both the School’s Graduate Supervisor Jennifer Henderson and other faculty with related research interests. Additional information on graduate programme requirements. Some key resources on heritage conservation.
At a more practice-oriented level, many students in Heritage Planning and Studies select to do a combination of coursework and practicum placements – which are unpaid internships that count for academic credit. Partners for these placements in the last few years have included Bytowne Museum, Contentworks, City of Ottawa, Heritage Ottawa, Lowertown Community Association, National Capital Commission, and Parks Canada. Students may identify other partners or seek advice related to their interests. The internships take place during the term in lieu of a course, usually starting in the 2nd year.