Established in 1999, this full-time on-campus Master’s programme in Cottbus was the first graduate degree worldwide built explicitly around the UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Taught in English, it brings together international students, academics, and heritage professionals in a multicultural learning environment focused on preparing graduates for practical heritage work.
The programme emphasises cross-sectoral knowledge and managerial skills required for the identification, protection, management, and presentation of cultural and natural heritage sites. It teaches the practical, legal, and stakeholder frameworks that shape heritage practice and encourages critical reflection on their possibilities and limits. Coursework blends theory and practice across fields such as architecture, conservation, humanities, ecology, management, tourism, marketing and public relations, stressing connections between culture and nature, tangible and intangible values, and conservation and sustainable development.
WHS On-Campus integrates four interdisciplinary study areas and combines taught modules with applied projects and a research thesis. The programme is characterised by cultural, academic and professional diversity and by close links to heritage practice. Since 2014 the programme has an excellence partnership with Deakin University (Melbourne), offering a double degree option: the top five admitted students can spend one semester in Melbourne fully funded by the DAAD and, on successful completion, receive two degrees.
Program components & key points
Program structure and learning approach
This full‑time, modular Master’s programme runs over a recommended four semesters and combines lectures, seminars, workshops, excursions, supervised study projects and a research-based Master’s thesis. The entire course consists of 120 ECTS, designed to provide a balance of theoretical foundations and applied practice in world heritage issues. Complementary courses may be available each semester to broaden skills, and the curriculum is adjusted slightly for students enrolled in the double‑degree track with Deakin University.
Key modules and thematic areas
Two mandatory modules (12 ECTS) give students the foundational body of knowledge in World Heritage Studies and introductory coaching. The curriculum then lets students choose nine compulsory‑elective modules (54 ECTS) drawn from four interdisciplinary study areas: Humanities & Social Sciences (e.g., Discourse on Culture and Heritage; Intercultural Competence; Legal Aspects of Heritage), Art, Architecture & Conservation (e.g., Conservation/Building in Existing Fabric; Archaeology; Urban Planning), Natural Heritage & Cultural Landscapes (e.g., Ecology; Cultural Landscapes), and Management (e.g., Heritage Management and Management Plans; Fundraising and Finance for Heritage; Heritage Impact Assessment). Two practice‑oriented study projects (24 ECTS) and a 30‑ECTS Master’s thesis complete the programme, enabling concentrated research and real‑world application.
Intended learning outcomes
Graduates will acquire interdisciplinary knowledge of cultural and natural heritage theory, legal and ethical frameworks, and conservation practice; develop practical skills in planning, management, impact assessment, fundraising, marketing and interpretation; and gain research competence through project work and the Master’s thesis. Fieldwork, workshops and study projects foster applied problem‑solving, intercultural communication and the ability to work across heritage, architecture, planning and environmental disciplines.
Program requirements (concise)
Duration and mode
Core and elective structure
Practical and research components
Other notes
This master's programme seeks applicants who have completed a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or an equivalent undergraduate degree in cultural sciences or in a discipline that directly relates to the World Heritage Studies curriculum. Relevant academic backgrounds include humanities and social sciences as well as more practice-oriented fields; degrees from other countries that are comparable to a BA are accepted as equivalents.
Applicants who bring practical, professional experience connected to world heritage—such as work in conservation, site management, cultural policy, or community engagement—are explicitly encouraged to apply. Candidates from adjacent academic backgrounds who can demonstrate relevant coursework, research, or professional activities that match the programme’s focus may also be considered.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for managerial and specialist roles in heritage identification, preservation, presentation and sustainable site management. Typical career paths include positions at UNESCO, national and local heritage authorities, museums, conservation agencies, cultural and natural site management bodies, NGO and consultancy roles related to heritage policy and impact assessment, and cultural tourism management.
The programme's interdisciplinary training, applied projects, international partnerships and internship opportunities also provide a solid foundation for careers in research and academia or for pursuing further doctoral studies in heritage-related fields. The double-degree option and international network enhance employability in global heritage organisations and transnational projects.
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