Find out more about studying Archaeology MA by Research at Durham University? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
MA - Master of Arts
Main Campus
Full Time
Jan 2026
1 Year
We have a very wide range of research specialisms, encompassing archaeologies of Britain and Europe, West Asia, Egypt and North Africa, South Asia and East Asia, the Palaeolithic to the 21st century, studying materials from human remains to iconography, and honing cutting-edge scientific methods to theoretical frameworks. Synergies in this pool of research activity are fostered in vibrant, cross-disciplinary Research and Impact Groups.We can offer you expert research supervision leading to MA and MSc by Research (aka MRes), MPhil, and PhD qualifications through full- or part-time study. Durham’s library holdings are excellent and our post-graduate researchers can take advantage of regular researcher meetings in department and through Durham’s many interdisciplinary research centres. Our PhDs have the option of a traditional dissertation of 100,000 words (maximum) or a portfolio of publications.MA or MSc by Research: one year of full-time or two years of part-time research and writing, plus up to six months of continuation writing up time, producing a dissertation of up to 50,000 words. The research topic for this qualification is usually based on a specific object, site, or phenomenon. If your topic is suitable and you demonstrate an aptitude for research, the MA or MSc by Research can lead to postgraduate research at a higher level (MPhil. or PhD). You will normally have a qualification in a related area, evidence of sound research training, and a good project proposal developed with a supervisor in department prior to application.