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MPhil in Archaeological Science

Different course options

Study mode

Full time

Duration

10 months

Start date

08-OCT-24

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MPhil - Master of Philosophy

Subject areas

Archaeological Sciences

Course type

Research

Course Summary

This MPhil aims to introduce students to the main theories and research approaches in archaeological science, particularly within the fields of archaeological materials science, geoarchaeology, zooarchaeology, archaeobotany, genetics and isotopic and biomolecular archaeology. The aims include:

  • To provide a wide-ranging and challenging introduction to the theoretical issues involved in archaeological science.
  • To provide an in-depth understanding of approaches to scientific analysis and interpretation in the context of archaeological research.
  • To foster the ability to develop original research questions and to explore them effectively using scientific methods.
  • To provide training relevant to a professional and/or research career in archaeological science.

Assessment

Thesis

The dissertation is an extended piece of independent, original research. Students work with their supervisor to
formulate a dissertation project, carry out research and write it up. The topic of the dissertation has to be approved by the Faculty Degree Committee. The dissertation is of maximum 15,000 words (exclusive of tables, figures, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices) and is due at the end of August; it counts for 50 per cent of the student’s final mark.

Essays

Assessment for the modules offered for the MPhil in Archaeological Science varies as appropriate to the aims of the modules, but can include assessed essays, laboratory reports, literature reviews and presentations. All work is double-marked and reviewed by the Department’s external examiner to ensure fairness and consistency.

Upon successful completion of this MPhil, students should have:

  • Gained a detailed understanding of current theoretical and practical perspectives in archaeological science.
  • Developed their critical faculties in a discussion, debate, and evaluation of alternative interpretations and perspectives on scientific data.
  • Developed transferable skills such as writing, presentation, data analysis and laboratory protocols
  • Carried through a substantial programme of independent research embodied in a dissertation on a topic that demonstrates theoretical understanding and practical competence in science-based archaeological analysis and interpretation.

Modules

The dissertation is an extended piece of independent, original research. Students work with their supervisor to formulate a dissertation project, carry out research and write it up. The topic of the dissertation has to be approved by the Faculty Degree Committee. The dissertation carries a maximum 15,000 word limit (exclusive of tables, figures, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices) and is submitted at the end of August; it counts for 50 per cent of the student's final mark.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£12,903

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£30,339

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK High II.i Honours Degree. Students are expected to enter the MPhil in Archaeological Science from a range of backgrounds, including: from undergraduate degrees in archaeology, history, social anthropology, classics and cognate disciplines, students seeking accessible training in the methods and principles involved in the scientific analysis of archaeological evidence; from undergraduate degrees in chemistry, biology, physics, geography, geology, materials science and other scientific disciplines, students seeking to apply their scientific background to archaeological research, while learning the broader context, archaeological frameworks and theories that shape this work; and students and professionals from conservation backgrounds who wish to learn the research skills and techniques required to understand the nature and contextualisation of the materials they conserve.