World Heritage Studies Online (WHS Online)

The international Master’s programme in World Heritage Studies (WHS) at BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg is the first programme in the world to design its curriculum around the "UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage". It provides the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to identify, protect, manage and present cultural and natural heritage sites. Students are encouraged to reflect upon how heritage is understood and how it functions in societies all around the world. The programme combines theory and practice in a cross-sectoral way, incorporating various academic disciplines such as the humanities, architecture, conservation, ecology, management, tourism, marketing and beyond. It thus emphasises the link between culture and nature, tangible and intangible heritage values, conservation and sustainable development. The programme furthermore recognises that heritage can and should be protected from a wide range of perspectives and in a contemporary context. To this end, the programme prioritises critical reflection on present-day issues such as changing demographics, environmental fragility, and economic inequalities. Students will develop the skills and knowledge needed to successfully work in professional heritage fields, furthermore working to define and recontextualise heritage for future generations. With the 2021 established study option of WHS Online, the prestigious WHS study programme opens its doors to applicants who, due to visa, money, work or family issues, may not be able or willing to come to Cottbus/Germany for full-time studies on campus. WHS Online is therefore designed for students who still seek a high quality education in heritage, but who have responsibilities in their jobs or private lives that prevent them from moving to Cottbus/Germany.