MSc in Archaeological Science

at University of Oxford

The MSc in Archaeological Science is designed to give a broad but detailed grounding in the theory as well as practical experience in the major applications of science in archaeology. It is intended for archaeologists or scientists who wish to go on to undertake research in archaeological science, or archaeologists who intend to pursue a career in the management of archaeological projects or become policy makers in this area and would like to have a sound understanding of the potential of science to elucidate archaeological problems. The MSc also acts as preliminary training for doctoral research.

The MSc in Archaeological Science is based on the research strengths of the Research Laboratory for Archaeology. The MSc consists of three elements taught over two nine-week terms, comprising materials analysis and the study of technological change, molecular bioarchaeology, and principles and practice of scientific dating, plus a five month research project chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The pre-set essay(s) and research project provide opportunity for specialisation within these areas.

Most students study all three archaeological science options, but it is possible to replace one of these with an option from the MSc in Archaeology or MSt in Classical Archaeology run by the school.

Each option has a co-ordinator who will be responsible for arranging your option teaching, while the course director has overall responsibility for your progress, and you will have a supervisor for your individual research project.

Teaching is through a combination of lectures, classes and laboratory sessions requiring regular written work, and is supplemented by a range of graduate seminars. The course benefits from the small size of the cohort (usually about eight), allowing many opportunities for student contribution. Class presentations are also required, providing valuable experience and the opportunity for feedback from your peers.

Proven and potential academic excellence

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:
 

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in archaeology or a science subject¹.

Under the UK system, applicants should have a minimum of 65% in their degree. However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree (> 70%) or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA in archaeology or a related subject, the minimum overall GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0. However, most successful applicants have an overall GPA of 3.7 or above.

Such as (but not limited to) Geology, Biology, Physics or Environmental Studies.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience
 

• Substantial professional experience may be taken into account.

• Applicants may have either a predominantly archaeological or science-based education, although it is advantageous to have some experience of both subjects.

• Relevant publications are not expected, but may add to the strength of an application.

English language proficiency

Minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level requirement

IELTS Academic 

7.5    

TOEFL iBT, including the 'Home Edition'

110

Home    
£17,250

Overseas    
£30,910

Graduate destinations

Many graduates from the MSc in Archaeological Science continue to further degree programmes in Archaeology, especially at Oxford, or to careers in archaeological project management or more generally in commercial archaeology, industry and heritage management.