A Master of Museum and Heritage Studies is a postgraduate coursework degree that trains students to understand, manage, and communicate the cultural and historical significance of objects, sites, and collections. The course examines how meaning is constructed in museums and at heritage sites through material objects, cultural practices, events, and performances — covering everything from collections management and curatorial practice to heritage conservation, digital engagement, and Indigenous cultural heritage. Students develop both theoretical foundations and practical expertise in the management and interpretation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, preparing them for leadership roles across the cultural sector.

The degree is designed for graduates from a wide range of humanities, social sciences, and creative arts backgrounds who want to build professional expertise in museum or heritage practice. It suits those passionate about how communities engage with their past, including through exhibitions, memorialisation, repatriation, community engagement, and policy development. Students typically specialise in either museum studies (curatorship, collections, visitor experience) or cultural and environmental heritage management (policy, conservation, site interpretation). Many programs are available full-time, part-time, or with online components, making them accessible to working professionals.

Employers of graduates include national, state, and local museums and galleries, heritage councils, Indigenous land councils, government heritage agencies, local councils, the National Archives of Australia, environmental management agencies, tourism operators, cultural policy organisations, universities, and private cultural heritage consultancies. The GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) sector in Australia is the primary employer, alongside heritage consultancies working on planning, development, and Indigenous heritage approvals.

Most Australian universities require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree with a credit average (typically 65% or above) in a cognate discipline. Recognised cognate fields include Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, Classics and Ancient History, Cultural Geography, Cultural Studies, Education, English, History, Indigenous Studies, Gender Studies, Museum Studies, Sociology, Environmental Studies, Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Design, Tourism Studies, and related social sciences and humanities. Some programs accept applicants from outside these disciplines who can demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge. Many programs also offer entry via a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in the same field, with upgrade pathways to the full Masters upon satisfactory completion. Relevant professional work experience in a museum, gallery, archive, library, heritage organisation, or related public service role may also be considered in lieu of or in addition to academic qualifications.

For international students, English language proficiency is required. Typical requirements include an IELTS overall score of at least 6.5–7.0, with no individual band below 6.0. TOEFL iBT scores of around 90–96 overall are also commonly accepted. Some programs also accept the Pearson Test of English (PTE) with a minimum score of around 64–68. Entry is competitive at most institutions, meaning meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Applicants should prepare a strong academic transcript and, where required, a statement of purpose or personal statement outlining their professional goals and relevant experience.