Bursaries

Diversify bursaries were originally made available to fund minority-ethnic students through a one-year postgraduate masters course in museum studies with a work-based placement over three to five months in a leading museum or gallery. 

There was also potential to take the bursary package over two years and study for the masters part-time or via distance learning, depending on the individual's own needs.


MLA was been the main funder of the Diversify bursary scheme but the MA also worked with partners, including MLA East Midlands, Reading Museums Service, University of East Anglia and University of Southampton, to offer additional bursaries.

Museums offering bursary students placements have included Beamish, The North of England Open Air Museum, the Horniman Museum and Gardens, the V&A, the National Gallery, the Galleries of Justice, Derby Museums and the Museum of London.


Although the MA no longer runs Diversify bursaries some museums do. These are often based on the model we developed for Diversify so the information below will provide you with a taste of what to expect.

What can bursary trainees expect?

As a bursary trainee, you may have your course fees paid and receive a contribution towards essential course expenses such as books and course-related travel. However, you would have to fund your own accommodation and day-to-day living expenses while on the course.


Museums Association Diversify bursaries have included:


  • payment of course fees for a one-year full-time postgraduate museum studies course 
  • 3-5 month placement at a leading regional museum or gallery in England with a training bursary
  • a contribution of up to £1,000 towards essential course expenses, such as books and course-related travel 
  • free MA membership, including conference attendance, publications and other benefits for the duration of the training, and for an additional two years 
  • opportunities for additional training, in discussion with the MA 
  • opportunities to meet and network with other Diversify participants

What can you expect to achieve?

Bursary students who successfully complete the scheme will:

  • hold a postgraduate qualification in museum studies
  • have practical experience (typically three to five months) from their placement in a regional museum or gallery in England
  • benefit from the networking and professional development opportunities