OAFP 9535 - The Contemporary Issues in Cultural Heritage Management

This course examines contemporary debates and challenges in cultural heritage management within a global and urban context. Through international case studies, it explores how heritage policies intersect with urban development, identity, and memory politics. Students will critically analyse the impacts of globalisation, over-tourism, and uncontrolled urbanisation on heritage sites, as well as evolving approaches to heritage management, sustainable protection and participatory governance. The course combines theoretical frameworks with practical perspectives on managing heritage in dynamic environments.

This elective course is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the Cultural Policy and Management programme, as well as to any student interested in cultural heritage and critical heritage studies. No specific prerequisite is required.

The course combines lectures, individual and team work, and interactive discussions. A field trip to a heritage site (to be confirmed) will provide practical insight into cultural tourism, site conservation, and management challenges.

• Class participation and engagement 10%
• Individual essay (midterm, after Session 6) 40%
• Group project and presentation (final, Sessions 11–12) 50%

Students are expected to complete the assigned readings before each session and actively participate in discussions and group work. Additional time is required for preparing the midterm essay and the final group project.