Three-year diploma program in Heritage Conservation

The 1st year curriculum focuses more on craft skills, such as plaster, stone carving, blacksmithing, and dry stone walling. In 2nd year, the balance shifts its focus towards theory, such as conservation management plans, cultural landscapes, and heritage planning, with hands-on courses sprinkled throughout.

Example course list for all three years available Here

The Willowbank campus is a living laboratory for its students, so whenever possible we our course projects are focused on-site. 3rd year is set up as a transition year, in which students ‘choose their own adventure’.

Students are on campus for three weeks in September before embarking on a placement, which can be an internship, apprenticeship, employment, or a personal restoration, construction or research project. They return to campus in March for three weeks before graduation.After completing the three-year program, students graduate with a Diploma in Heritage Conservation. 96% of our graduates are employed in the heritage field.

Requirements

The minimum requirement for the Diploma Program is a high school diploma or equivalent.

The majority of our applicants have previously completed a college or university program, or are refocusing their careers or re-training for a new career.

A demonstrated passion for heritage and a commitment to both hands-on and academic exploration of the conservation field is essential.

All applicants must submit the following…

Completed application form
Official high school transcripts or equivalency certificate
Official College and or University transcripts (if applicable)
Two letters of reference (either academic or professional)
Résumé (may include sample portfolio at student’s discretion)
A non-refundable application fee of $50 (CAD) for domestic applicants / $100 (CAD) for international applicants

International Students

Willowbank is pleased to welcome students from around the world, including the United States and abroad.

International students are encouraged to begin their application and visa application process as early as possible. Please note our courses are delivered in English, so a working knowledge of the language is required.

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy

The School of Restoration Arts at Willowbank admits students of any race, colour, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

It does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

See What Current and Past Students Are Saying About Willowbank…

“History, community, and architecture merge together at Willowbank. The school fosters passion, dedication, and a high attention to detail that will help you craft your future niche career in the conservation field.”

Garrett France-Wyllie, Class of 2019

Heritage Carpenter, Conservator & Owner of France-Wyllie Restorations

“Willowbank’s historic campus and the combination of theory and hands-on classes is unique.

The instructors were extremely passionate about what they do and my classmates were always incredibly supportive.

The three year program was truly inspiring and transformative and has prepared me in unpredictable ways for my career.”

Jasoda Silva, Class of 2019

Historic Preservation Project Assistant, Clinton Brown Architecture Co.