BP – Department of Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts

Bologna Process

نظام مسار بولونيا

Department of Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts

The Bachelor’s Program in Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts is a four-year academic program with a workload of 240 ECTS. It aims to prepare graduates equipped with knowledge and practical skills in the protection, rehabilitation, and maintenance of archaeological and heritage buildings, as well as the conservation of archaeological artifacts and historical written manuscripts. Furthermore, it focuses on documenting tangible and intangible cultural heritage using the latest scientific methods and digital technologies to preserve it and transfer knowledge to future generations.

The program relies on both theoretical and practical dimensions through lectures, field visits, laboratory work, simulations, and research projects. It integrates support for scientific research skills, modern technologies, and artificial intelligence in the conservation of antiquities and manuscripts, qualifying graduates for both the labor market and postgraduate studies.

Preparing graduates equipped with robust scientific knowledge in the field of conservation of antiquities and manuscripts by acquiring theoretical and practical expertise in:

1.    Conservation and Restoration:

Conserving and restoring antiquities and manuscripts using modern scientific techniques to ensure their protection from natural degradation factors and external risks.

2.    Safe Preservation and Storage:

Preserving archaeological artifacts, manuscripts, and inscriptions in suitable environments that ensure their durability and physical integrity.

3.    Digitization:

Documenting and archiving antiquities and manuscripts into digital formats to ensure their preservation and facilitate access for researchers and interested parties.

4.    Community Awareness:

Enhancing public awareness of the importance of heritage and antiquities in building national identity and safeguarding the collective memory of the nation.

5.    Legislation and Institutional Support:

Upon successful completion of the program requirements, the graduate is awarded a Bachelor’s degree in “Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts” in accordance with the approved regulations and instructions.

The program is classified under Level 6 of the Iraqi National Qualifications Framework (INQF), in compliance with the laws and regulations in force, while taking into account institutional and ministerial requirements upon final accreditation.

Admission is subject to the regulations and instructions of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the University, and the approved study track in the year of admission.

To obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts, students must successfully fulfill all graduation requirements, including:

  • Completing 240 ECTS / credit units according to the approved study plan.
  • Passing all mandatory and elective courses.
  • Achieving the minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) and graduation requirements.
  • Completing practical, field, and training requirements.
  • Completing and defending the graduation project in accordance with regulations.
  • Adhering to examination regulations, academic progression rules, and scientific integrity.

Course equivalency or recognition of prior learning is considered in cases of student transfer or course articulation in accordance with the regulations in force, based on a comparison of course content, learning outcomes, and academic workload (ECTS).

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor’s Program in Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts, graduates are expected to achieve the following Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):

Code Program Learning Outcome (PLO)
PLO1 Distinguish and classify the historical eras of Mesopotamia and the artistic schools of antiquities and manuscripts.
PLO2 Apply scientific methods and modern techniques to examine, analyze, and diagnose damage manifestations in organic and inorganic materials.
PLO3 Plan and execute conservation and restoration operations (preventive and curative) for antiquities and manuscripts in accordance with international standards.
PLO4 Utilize precise manual and technical skills in restoring and conserving archaeological artifacts and historical documents.
PLO5 Master the skills of reading, editing (critical collation), and scientifically documenting ancient manuscripts and historical Arabic scripts.
PLO6 Manage heritage museums and libraries while implementing display systems, safe storage, and optimal preservation environments.
PLO7 Comply with local (Iraqi) and international laws and legislation regarding the protection of antiquities and cultural heritage.
PLO8 Utilize information technology, digital archiving systems, scanning, and artificial intelligence techniques to build databases for manuscripts and archaeological sites.
PLO9 Work effectively within multidisciplinary teams (archaeologists, chemists, engineers) in excavation and conservation projects.
PLO10 Adhere to professional ethics and scientific integrity when dealing with human cultural heritage and safeguarding national identity.
PLO11 Prepare and clearly present specialized scientific reports and academic research in the field of restoration and conservation.
PLO12 Develop self-learning skills and continuous professional development to keep pace with global advancements in materials science and geophysical techniques applied to archaeology.

Descriptive Framework Matrix for the Bachelor’s Program in Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts

(Aligned with the Iraqi National Qualifications Framework – INQF Standards for Level 7 / Bachelor’s Degree)

A. Knowledge

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) Representative Course Examples
Interprets the historical and artistic characteristics of standing monuments and manuscripts across various civilizational eras, enabling the determination of the age of artifacts, heritage buildings, and monuments. • History of Mesopotamia

• Ancient Arts
Explains the chemical and physical nature of clay, metallic, and organic materials that constitute antiquities and manuscripts. • Introduction to Ancient Languages

• Manuscript Documentation
Explains the international restoration theories, philosophies, and charters adopted in cultural heritage conservation. • Iraqi Antiquities Laws and International Charters
Identifies the environmental, human, and biological factors causing the deterioration and decay of manuscripts and archaeological finds. • Conservation of Antiquities and Heritage

B. Skills

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) Representative Course Examples
Diagnoses chemically and biologically the manifestations of deterioration and degradation (such as mold, acidity, and oxidation) affecting manuscripts and archaeological finds. • Conservation and Restoration of Manuscripts

• Building Materials (Labs)
Applies safe laboratory methods in treating and cleaning cuneiform documents, parchment manuscripts, and archaeological textiles without compromising their authenticity. • Conservation and Restoration of Organic Antiquities (Labs)
Employs advanced digital documentation software and scanning technologies to construct digital archives and comprehensive databases for manuscripts and artifacts, utilizing artificial intelligence technologies within their domain of work. • Antiquities and Heritage Documentation
Executes preventive conservation procedures and environmental control (monitoring temperature, humidity, and lighting) within museums, storerooms, and display cases to protect heritage collections, while providing recommendations and guidelines for safeguarding standing monuments at archaeological sites, heritage buildings, and memorials. • Management of Archaeological and Heritage Sites

• Museum Management

 

 

 

 

 

 

C. Competencies (Competencies & Responsibility)

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) Representative Course Examples
Works efficiently in field and laboratory conservation and restoration projects, demonstrating full responsibility for the safety and integrity of artifacts and manuscripts. • Conservation and Restoration of Organic Antiquities (Labs)

• Conservation and Restoration of Inorganic Antiquities (Labs)
Makes sound, responsible restoration decisions based on precise risk assessments, in compliance with international charters and ethics for cultural heritage protection. • Strategies for Preserving Archaeological and Heritage Sites and Collections
Handles civilizational heritage with high awareness, national pride, and ethical responsibility, adhering to local laws and international legislation for antiquities conservation. • Management and Marketing of Archaeological and Heritage Sites
Manages emergencies, disasters, and crises (such as wars, fires, floods, or rapid environmental deterioration) to protect museum collections and manuscript repositories. • Strategies for Preserving Archaeological and Heritage Sites and Collections
Designs strategic plans for sustainable preventive conservation in specialized institutions (museums, libraries, ancient and heritage buildings) built on green education principles, utilizing eco-friendly materials and techniques to reduce the carbon footprint and ensure cultural legacy sustainability for future generations. • Management of Archaeological and Heritage Sites

Learning Outcome Code (PLO) Theoretical Knowledge Practical / Applied Knowledge Problem Solving
PLO1 ✓
PLO2 ✓
PLO3 ✓
PLO4 ✓
PLO5 ✓
PLO6 ✓
PLO7 ✓
PLO8 ✓
PLO9 ✓
PLO10 ✓
PLO11 ✓
PLO12 ✓

Graduates of the Department of Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts can work in:

  • State Boards / Public Authorities for Antiquities and Heritage (Institutions under the Ministry of Culture).
  • Museums: As museum curators or officers responsible for documenting, classifying, and conserving artifacts.
  • Archaeological Excavation Bodies.
  • Higher Education Institutions.
  • Ministry of Education Institutions: As teachers or instructors.
  • International and Regional Organizations and Associations dedicated to cultural heritage protection.
  • Maintenance, Restoration, and Reconstruction Projects for damaged sites (e.g., the Old City of Mosul restoration projects).
  • Archaeological Tourism Sector: As tour guides, heritage tourism researchers, or managers of archaeological sites open to visitors.
  • Libraries and Centers housing ancient manuscripts and historical archives.

Master of Science (M.Arts.) in Archaeology, specializing in Conservation of Antiquities and Manuscripts.

  1. Quizzes, assignments, and coursework.
  1. Midterm and final examinations.
  1. Reports, research papers, and studies.
  1. Scientific presentations and academic discussions.
  1. Practical and field assessments.
  1. Evaluation of practical training and projects.
  1. Assessment and defense of the graduation project.
  1. Adherence to academic integrity, preventing cheating and plagiarism.

The examination and grading regulations accredited by the Ministry and the University are applied, with diversified assessment tools aligned with the intended learning outcomes.

  1. Completion of 240 ECTS / credit units according to the approved plan.
  1. Passing all required courses.
  1. Achieving the required Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).
  1. Completion of practical and field requirements.
  1. Completion and defense of the graduation research project.
  1. Fulfillment of all academic and administrative requirements.

A four-year, full-time program spanning eight academic semesters. It adopts a student-centered learning approach, integrating theoretical knowledge, practical application, research, field training, and digital technologies in alignment with Bologna Process principles.

Organizational Note: The attached curriculum specifies a total of 30 units per semester. It must be formally clarified whether these units represent ECTS credits or be accompanied by the official conversion factor in the program specification document prior to official ECTS adoption.

The Program Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the study plan, coordinating among courses and faculty members, monitoring the achievement of learning outcomes, following up on training, research, and assessment, supporting quality assurance and continuous improvement procedures, and liaising with relevant academic and administrative entities.