Human Evolution MSc

University of Liverpool

It has taken 7 million years of struggle to make us ‘human.’ How did we get here and why? In our Human Evolution MSc you'll investigate the biological and behavioural changes that made us the species we call 'Homo sapiens'.IntroductionOur MSc offers the unique opportunity to benefit from two institutions specialisms’ as your programme will be delivered by University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University in collaboration.Liverpool John Moores University will help you gain expertise in the human fossil record, ancient DNA / proteomics and Neanderthal archaeology / spatial analysis. You will benefit from dedicated laboratory facilities for osteological analyses and practical field training in the excavation and recording of human skeletal remains. Liverpool John Moores University’s collaboration with The Poulton Trust will provide you with access to archaeological sites with burials and large skeletal collections for practical training.University of Liverpool will provide you with expertise in the early archaeological records of Africa and Eurasia, archaeological and evolutionary theory, as well as ecological, environmental, and climate change modelling. We have dedicated facilities and support staff for undertaking materials analysis linked to experimental archaeology and 3D modelling. The Professor Elizabeth Slater Laboratories for Archaeological Science provide analytical tools including scanning electron microscopy [SEM-EDX], a visualisation suite for 3D modelling of artefacts, and microscopes for use-wear analysis of stone tools.Through the research-led teaching on our MSc you will be fully involved in the human evolution research community, and will learn about the latest theoretical orientations, methods, and discoveries.Please note this programme is subject to final approval.What you'll learnAdvanced practical and theoretical experience in the methods and practice of human evolution researchHands-on training in archaeological fieldwork, including excavation of human remainsKnowledge of the human fossil record, ancient DNA, proteomics, Neanderthal archaeology and spatial analysisInsight into the early archaeological records of Africa and Eurasia, archaeological and evolutionary theory, as well as ecological, environmental, and climate change modelling