Objectives
The course is designed to train researchers and experts in the field of Cultural Heritage Conservation Sciences, capable of analyzing conservation issues and identifying degradation processes based on knowledge of the physical, chemical, and structural properties of materials, as well as identifying possible remedies. These experts must be able to carry out interventions in accordance with the historical, artistic, and architectural context of the artifacts, thus contributing to their better enhancement and protection.
The educational objectives of the Master's Degree in Science and Technology for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage are consistent with those of Class LM-11 (Science for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage, Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage) according to Ministerial Decree 1649 of December 19, 2023.
The Master's Degree in Science and Technology for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage pursues the following specific educational objectives through its courses:
1. Knowledge:
-familiarity with scientific concepts relevant to the conservation of cultural heritage;
-good historical and artistic culture;
-mastery of scientific methods for data collection and computerization, investigation, and data analysis and interpretation techniques.
2. Comprehension skills:
-ability to understand and interpret data relating to the state of conservation of cultural heritage;
-understanding of the interactions between cultural heritage and the environment (biological, chemical-physical);
-understanding of the technologies used in the production of artifacts.
3. Application skills:
-carrying out conservation and restoration work in specific historical, artistic, and architectural contexts;
-applying diagnostic techniques and carrying out checks during the conservation process.
- knowing how to use scientific tools to diagnose material deterioration;
-being able to integrate the knowledge acquired in order to apply it in the more general context of conservation.
4. Analytical autonomy:
- be able to analyze the chemical and physical components of materials and understand how they react to external agents;
- be able to identify the causes and mechanisms of deterioration of cultural heritage;
- be able to break down a complex degradation problem into individual factors and evaluate different solutions.
5. Evaluation Skills:
-critically evaluate methods and techniques for the recovery and conservation of cultural heritage;
- evaluate the scientific results of investigations and restoration operations;
- be able to compare and choose between different techniques based on scientific and ethical criteria.
6. Creative Skills:
- collaborate in the design of information systems that integrate scientific and historical knowledge;
- be able to design innovative solutions that combine traditional and modern techniques.
This breakdown shows how the course aims to develop skills at various cognitive levels, with the goal of training professionals who are able to work independently in the field of conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage.
The multidisciplinary nature of activities in the cultural heritage sector requires a teaching program aimed at acquiring specific skills. The degree program includes courses that meet the scientific and professional needs of the field, as well as a core of courses that complete the humanities education and refine knowledge in general disciplines. Courses in the field of Conservation Science and Technology are aimed at training students in the field of materials, measurements, and techniques for the recovery, conservation, restoration, and enhancement of cultural heritage. Courses in Earth and Natural Sciences train students for positions of responsibility in scientific museums and in carrying out diagnostics before and during conservation work. Interdisciplinary subjects provide training in historical and artistic culture, particularly with regard to the technologies used to produce artifacts, while related or complementary activities provide in-depth analysis of specific issues of interest to cultural heritage. Most of the courses are concentrated in the first year of the program, while the second year is mainly devoted to work on the master's thesis.