Key facts
UNE unit code: HIST537
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Museums play a central role in collecting, conserving, interpreting and presenting our natural and cultural heritage, and in educating people from all walks of life. Their focus moves between the past, present and future.
This unit prepares you to take an active role in the curatorial practices involved in presenting history and heritage in museums. It requires you to become familiar with the history of museums, and with the processes involved in researching, collecting, documenting, conserving, interpreting and presenting material culture.
It also establishes your appreciation of the steps involved in evaluating and reviewing exhibitions about the past.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a mastery of the changing role of museums in collecting, conserving and presenting cultural heritage, and present a clear, coherent and independent exposition of knowledge and ideas;
- demonstrate an expert and integrated understanding of the historical cultural, ethical and social issues affecting the management and curatorship of museums, collections, and exhibitions;
- independently investigate and critically analyse the history and significance of specific items of material culture and specific aspects of the practice of history in museums; and
- demonstrate expert cognitive and communication skills, knowledge and judgement suitable for undertaking professional work as an historian (paid or voluntary) in a museum.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 - Assurance Task 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Object Analysis Students must obtain at least 50% in both Assurance Task 1 and 2 (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. No. Words: 1500 |
| Assessment 2 - Assurance Task 2 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Supervised Exam This online exam will be supervised via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must obtain at least 50% in both Assurance Task 1 and 2 (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. No. Words: 1000 (equivalent) |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Museum Project No. Words: 2500
|
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
