Clarabellisima

Hi Kadin, I am currently working towards getting into an art conservation program myself. Going into conservation, like most programs, is a lot of work. There are four main programs in the US: The University of Delaware, NYU, SUNY Buffalo, and The UCLA Getty program in Archaeological and Ethnographic Conservation. All of there requirements are a little different but in general they are a mix of art history and studio classes plus general and organic chemistry. Most people take their undergrad plus an extra year to complete them (I did) and from my understanding they are not flexible about meeting these requirements. All programs will require a portfolio of art work and previous conservation work (the specifics for each school are listed in the admission requirements) either submitted with application or presented at the interview. Programs also require you to have worked a certain number of hours under the supervision of a conservator, usually a couple hundred. The required hours are a lot lower than most accepted applicants have actually completed, most applicants have worked in the field as interns, volunteers, or conservation technicians for at least two years. It usually takes a couple of application cycles to be accepted. International programs usually don't have the same type of prerequisites but I think you're less likely to get funding. I just finished my first application cycle, I was not accepted this year, but I think that is pretty normal. I would suggest looking up conservators in your area, both private practice and in museums, and asking them about their experiences and their work. It is also a great starting off point for asking about volunteer opportunities. Almost everyone will do at least one unpaid internship before being accepted to school. My understanding is that the intensive requirements are a way to limit the number of conservators entering the field each year so that the field doesn't become overcrowded. I know you don't want to go the undergraduate route but if you did Delaware is the only school in the US (I think) that offers an undergrad degree in art conservation and I think it is essentially a structured way to meet all of the pre-reqs for graduate school. I know my experience won't be exactly like anyone else's but if you want to ask more questions feel free.