MPhil in Archaeological Research

Often a stepping stone toward PhD studies, this course allows students considerable freedom in designing an independent course of study under the direction of a supervisor. Applicants will normally have already assembled an appropriate data set and questions for their dissertation at the time of application. The MPhil provides training in archaeological research methods and associated transferable skills, and the opportunity to complete a research thesis under academic guidance. This thesis and its topic are normally considered as a vehicle for working out detailed plans for pursuing a PhD, but may also be taken as a standalone one-year MPhil degree.

The MPhil in Archaeological Research consists of three components, structured around independent study:

1. A research paper (6,000 words)
2. A research skills module
3. The dissertation (25,000 words).

This course is for students who have a substantial and appropriate background in archaeology (at the first degree level and in fieldwork) accompanied by considerable maturity in the development of their research topic. Training in specific research skills (archaeological computing, quantitative methods, GIS and/or laboratory-based techniques) are arranged as appropriate to the student's needs.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of general archaeology method and theory and of a specific field within archaeology.

Ability to participate in academic discussion at a postgraduate level.

Continuing

Students taking the MPhil in Archaeological Research 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 that appropriate skills, such as language competence, are in place prior to admittance on the PhD programme.