MPhil in Archaeological Science

The MPhil in Archaeological Science aims to introduce students to the main theories and research approaches in archaeological science, particularly within the fields of archaeological materials science, environmental archaeology 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.

Learning Outcomes

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.

Continuing

Students taking the MPhil in Archaeological Science who wish to continue to the PhD in Archaeology are required to
achieve a mark of at least 68 overall and no less than 68 in their dissertation. They must obtain the support of an
appropriate supervisor before making an application. In some circumstances, additional academic conditions
may be set to ensure appropriate skills are in place prior to admittance to the PhD programme.

Open Days

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.

See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK High II.i Honours Degree. If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country. Please be aware that this is the minimum criterion for academic results and that attaining this minimum does not guarantee admission to the programme. Admissions are fiercely competitive and applicants who simply meet the minimum academic standard are often not accepted onto the MPhil. Higher conditions may be set in some cases. Students are expected to enter the MPhil in Archaeological Science from a range of backgrounds, including:

Listening: 7.0, Writing: 7.0, Reading: 7.0, Speaking: 7.0, Total: 7.5, Listening: 25, Writing: 25, Reading: 25, Speaking: 25, Total: 110