PhD in Archaeology

The PhD in Archaeology is an opportunity for original research leading to a thesis within a structured research environment that encourages both independence and collaboration. The Department of Archaeology provides research training for PhD students through regular research skills seminars. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor and an advisor and may have additional co-supervisors and/or advisors who make up their ‘supervisory team’. Students will have frequent meetings with their supervisor and other team members, either together or individually. PhD students receive a progress review at the end of their second and fourth terms. The PhD is normally obtained after three years of study (five years part-time) on an approved subject within the field of Archaeology, and includes an oral examination on the thesis and the general field of knowledge in which it falls.

The thesis topic is normally proposed by the student and then decided between the student and the supervisor, and assistance is provided on elements of methodology and analysis, as well as with the written presentation. The thesis must satisfy the examiners that the candidate can design and carry out investigations, assess and interpret the results obtained, and place the work in the wider perspective of the subject. The PhD is assessed solely on the basis of the thesis examination.

A PhD thesis in Archaeology must represent a significant contribution to knowledge. with a word count of not more than 80,000 words, excluding appendices, footnotes and bibliography. Students may be required to complete courses in research design, statistical analysis, interpretation, communication and safety during their first Michaelmas term at Cambridge, and attend such lectures and courses as are considered appropriate by their supervisor.

Learning Outcomes

A PhD thesis in Archaeology is expected to be a lucid, scholarly and substantial research contribution to knowledge on its topic, and to demonstrate a good understanding of the wider context of the chosen topic.

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Masters (Merit). Applicants must have achieved a mark of at least 68 in a UK MA or MPhil or the equivalent from a non-UK institution, or possess relevant professional experience.