Conservators intervene on the material significance of works and objects of high cultural heritage value in order to pass them on to future generations. They take action once this material is at risk and when age, accident or harmful handling have weakened the artifacts, altered or concealed their image.

Admitted on a competitive basis, student conservators within the Inp follow a 5-year training programme to acquire the theoretical, scientific and practical basis necessary in the restoration of cultural artifacts and objects. This training leads to a Master’s degree in conservation-restoration.

The department also welcomes international students within the framework of exchange programmes with foreign institutions. 

The department of conservators is located in the former Matchstick factory in Aubervilliers, an industrial site dating from the 19th century and totally renovated for the purposes of the initial and continuing training programmes of conservators-restorers, students and professionals.