Archaeological Science (MSc)

at Cardiff University

MSc Archaeological Science commences with stage one, a seven month, taught component taken between September and May. You will complete taught modules totalling 120 credits, which can lead to the award of a Postgraduate Diploma in Archaeological Science.
 

On completing stage one, you apply and further develop advanced skills and expert knowledge by undertaking a four-month research project between May-September (stage two). You will choose your own MSc project and this will culminate in the submission of an MSc Dissertation.
 

Stage one will equip you with a range of methodological, discipline-specific and transferable skills, including communication and scientific data handling skills. You will progress from graduate standard at entry to a research base level by completion of this stage, and will be tasked with increasingly complex challenges with which to test your emerging skills. Stage one also provides you with discipline-specific knowledge in preparation for the research stage in Stage two.
 

Stage two comprises a 60 credit Archaeological Science Dissertation (16-20,000 words, topic or theme chosen in consultation with academic staff)
 

Topics can range from entirely theoretical evaluations of archaeological science values, through assessment of materials, to a case study based project related to an object, assemblage, collection or site. Hence, the differentiation from graduate-based learning develops systematically into research-based learning as the programme progresses.
 

The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2022/23 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2022.

The autumn semester offers you a choice of two 20 credit modules in archaeological science of which at least one must be selected (e.g. Human Osteoarchaeology and Zooarchaeology). At the same time a 20 credit compulsory core study skills module provides essential training in master’s level research, presentation and planning skills.
 

In the spring semester a further 20 credits archaeological science modules are available to make up the required minimum of 40 credits of taught science modules. You will also complete a 20 credit core module on archaeology and conservation specific training (covering quantification, communication, employment and independent research skills).
 

Depending on the number of archaeological science modules selected (40 credits is the minimum), you will supplement your  core skills and science training with a further 20 or 40 credits from a wide range of period (from prehistory to medieval), thematic (e.g. Death and Commemoration or Celts), skills (such as illustration, computing and GIS) and heritage science optional modules. These optional modules can be selected in either semester and some run across both semesters.
 

On successful completion of the taught stage of the programme, you will progress to your dissertation. The dissertation module focuses on the application of the knowledge of skills gained in stage one through research, culminating in the submission of a 16-20,000 word 60 credit dissertation. Your supervisor will guide, support and encourage you throughout this process.

The programme is suitable for Archaeology BSc, BA and other BSc graduates interested in acquiring multidisciplinary skills in this expanding area of archaeological science research.
 

• Applicants are required to have a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree in Archaeology, History, Ancient History, Conservation & Heritage, Geology, Geography, Chemistry, Biology, Zoology. Students with a high 2:2 (57+) will only be considered in exceptional circumstances when they have relevant experience (e.g. field/laboratory work, or excellent marks in relevant modules).
   

Typical offers for other qualifications: applicants without the usual formal qualifications but extensive relevant experience, for example, working in archaeological fieldwork or post- excavation may be considered for entry to the diploma scheme.
 

The Archaeology and Conservation section is already familiar with considering potential students from non-traditional backgrounds with a range of other experience rather than formal academic qualifications. Such potential students will normally make an enquiry prior to application; however, they can then apply in the normal way, but are required to submit evidence of their relevant work, and are interviewed in relation to this.
 

The principal concerns of the admissions panel will be that their experience is up-to-date and sufficiently substantial to support their admission to a master's scheme; the interview tests their personal understanding both subject area and the practical structure of this level of postgraduate work.
 

Typical IELTS offer: An overall IELTS score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each sub-score is required for non-native English speakers or those who have not had a substantial part of their education taught in the English language.
 

Admissions appeals can be made following established protocol, starting with informal feedback and if necessary progressing to a formal appeal.

Fees for home status

Tution Fees - £8450
Deposit - £

Fees for overseas status

Tution Fees - £19,450
Deposit-£1,000
 

Graduates of this and similar degree programmes have embarked on careers within the heritage sector and archaeology and in a range of professions.
 

Recent graduate destinations across the School include Cadw, Council for British Archaeology, Glamorgan Archives, Heritage Lottery Fund, National Trust, Tate Gallery, Welsh Assembly Government and a range of universities in the UK and overseas.
 

91% of postgraduates from the School of History, Archaeology and Religion were in employment or further study within six months of graduation (DLHE 2016/17).