MA Archaeology

The MA Archaeology is a flexible degree that prepares you for a career in research, the commercial sector or heritage management.

Join a world-leading Department of Archaeology with an international reputation for excellence in teaching and research as you take thematic and skills-based options that integrate social and scientific techniques for a deeper understanding of the past.

This course allows you to discover archaeology for the first time, or deepen your existing knowledge. You will gain an effective grounding in archaeological practice and research, with the opportunity to study a suite of modules from prehistory to the medieval period. Alternatively you can opt to follow a focused pathway in Medieval Europe, enabling you to concentrate your studies on our specialised research areas through your dissertation, and core period modules.

You will also have access to advanced facilities including fully-equipped and dedicated laboratories for human skeletal remains and animal bone analysis, stable isotope analysis, microscopic suite (CAF) and an MA study room. Our analytical suite is extensive, allowing students to access a range of techniques for their research projects.

Our assessments are varied, providing a mix of vocational and research opportunities, including:

• food diaries
• poster and conference presentations
• article critiques
• essays
• seminar presentations
• skeletal and lab-based reports
• in-class practical assessments

Class sizes are kept to a minimum but vary depending on the modules selected.

You may also have the opportunity to participate in staff research excavations in Europe (Crusades project), the Isle of Islay, or more locally at the famous Silchester Roman town excavation.

WHAT CAREER CAN YOU HAVE?

Our recent graduates have gone on to further study through funded PhD projects, as well as finding employment in professional archaeology, museums, publishing, journalism, radio and television, the heritage and leisure industries, the fields of conservation including the natural and built environment, government office, and teaching.

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (2:1 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK. Your degree should be in archaeology, history, environmental studies or any related field.