Palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic Archaeology MSc

UCL (University College London)

Unearth the archaeological and biological aspects of human evolution on this one-year MSc, delivered by UCL’s Institute of Archaeology. Giving you integrated training in both fields, the entire scope of approaches to the study of human evolution is covered. There’s a wide range of optional modules to choose from – for a solid scientific grounding in the principles, content and practice of the areas that interest you most. It’s an ideal foundation for a PhD or roles in cultural resource management, museums, science media and education related areas. The MSc Palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic Archaeology programme was developed, from the ground up, to provide students with the opportunity to develop a sophisticated, multi-disciplinary understanding of the deep human past. Whether students considered themselves as primarily palaeolithic archaeologists, paleoanthropologists or other scientific specialists, this course is designed to take them to the next level in their understanding, while also broadening their familiarity with wider, related disciplines. In terms of scope, it covers subjects including primate evolution, the archaeological and anatomical records of early hominins through to those of later hominin populations, the dispersal of Homo sapiens across the globe and the apparent extinction of Homo neanderthalensis and other populations. In short, the totality of Pleistocene culture, technology, biology and palaeoenvironment is covered, from the molecular to the geological scale. The programme starts from the principle that Palaeolithic archaeology and Palaeoanthropology are both part of a huge, exciting interdisciplinary endeavour and aims to develop postgrads ready to embrace that world with both broad understanding and deeper expertise. Consequently, students will develop an understanding in areas including: a broad range of research methods including statistical analyses. principles and practice of Palaeolithic archaeology and Palaeoanthropology. fluency with the fossil and archaeological evidence of human evolution. processes of evolutionary adaptation and environmental change. processes and record of past climates and environments. The programme provides an excellent foundation for graduate study in the fields of palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic archaeology, and is therefore suitable for students wishing to undertake doctoral research in these fields. It will also appeal to graduates with strong interests in the origins and emergence of human societies.