Heritage manager : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, the following subjects may increase your chances:

• archaeology;
• history or history of art;
• heritage or museum studies;
• marketing or other business-related subjects, especially finance;
• countryside or estate management;
• geography;
• education - secondary or primary with a PGCE qualification;
• library and information services;
• administration.

Entry with an HND/foundation degree only is unlikely. While lower level jobs, such as seasonal posts or internships in visitor reception, interpretation or retail, do not require a degree, they are often sought by graduates as a direct entry post or by undergraduates and postgraduates as work placements or holiday jobs. A role such as a heritage officer/interpreter would provide good experience and help towards achieving a management role.

A museum work-based postgraduate qualification, such as the Associateship of the Museums Association (MA)  (AMA), is not always essential, although a pre-entry qualification in heritage/museum management provides evidence of commitment. Many postgraduate courses also include a work placement or work-based project. Qualifications in areas such as teaching, marketing, communication, digital and web-based technologies or finance are useful for specific roles in the sector.

Relevant experience is essential, even for entry-level posts, for which competition is fierce. Seasonal work as a tour guide, interpreter or visitor reception assistant, though often poorly paid, provides experience and can sometimes lead to permanent work.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• the ability to deal effectively with a wide range of people;
• excellent written communication skills;
• a genuine interest in and understanding of the heritage sector;
• negotiating and persuading skills;
• administrative and budgeting skills;
• digital media and web 2.0 skills;
• commercial awareness and customer service skills;
• awareness of current political agendas;
• an enthusiasm for learning;
• the ability to use your initiative and work well in a team;
• experience of partnership and collaborative working;
• flexibility;
• creativity;
• time management skills;
• project management;
• leadership qualities.

Voluntary experience can be gained at many heritage sites and some, such as the Wordsworth Trust , have structured programmes, for example voluntary internships. Speculative approaches should be carefully researched and targeted. Think about your skills and experience and which area interests you most. You are more likely to be successful if you can make a regular commitment.

The National Trust  and the National Trust for Scotland  recruit volunteers to work directly with the public and for practical conservation projects. Time spent as a volunteer is viewed favourably if you apply for paid employment with the National Trust, as it demonstrates commitment to its ethos.

English Heritage  has an education volunteering programme at seven of its sites to assist site educators with workshops, tours and other activities associated with learning and school visits. Comprehensive training is provided.

Your local heritage attractions may have volunteering opportunities, especially during the school holidays, which are traditionally the busiest times of year for the heritage sector. To find your nearest attractions contact your local tourist information office or check the websites of regional tourist boards.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.