This bridging course is recommended for students who lack a background in chemistry or who wish to revise its basic concepts and practice. The course has been specifically developed to teach the fundamentals of chemistry to those entering the Master of Arts in Cultural Material Conservation.
A level of competence in chemistry is essential to the professional practice of material conservation. An understanding of scientific concepts and a basic scientific vocabulary enables the conservator to understand conservation problems, treatments, material, and techniques in a systematic and quantifiable way, which can be communicated not only to colleagues in the profession but also those from other disciplines whom the conservator is likely to encounter, chemists, botanists, geologists, and engineers. The course includes an intensive program of lectures, tutorials, and practical classes.
The intensive format of this course, whilst demanding, helps students to remain focused and creates an immersion in chemistry theory and practice, which is very beneficial to someone about to commence the Master of Arts in Cultural Materials Conservation. Being part of a cohesive group of students with a shared goal provides the opportunity to form study groups and friendships prior to starting the master’s course.
Download further information and course outline
Anyone interested in taking the Chemistry Bridging course should contact Dr Petronella Nel:
Dr Petronella Nel
Email: pnel@unimelb.edu.au
Phone: +61 3 8344 6049
Enrol now
To ensure your place in the course, it is in your interest to complete the 2-step enrolment process as early as possible.
Step 1 – Submit an ‘enrolment application’ form to Dr Petronella Nel (due 26 January 2026).
Download enrolment application form
Step 2 – You will be contacted at a later date regarding how to make an e-cart payment (due 30 January 2026).
The next 1-week intensive Chemistry Bridging course will run in February 2027.