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Postgraduate Study

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 dissertation under academic guidance. This dissertation 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 are in place prior to admittance to the PhD programme.


Open Days

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the beginning of November. 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.

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Key Information


10 months full-time

Master of Philosophy

Department of Archaeology

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2023

Applications open
Sept. 15, 2022
Application deadline
April 26, 2023
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2023

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Jan. 5, 2023
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 12, 2022

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2023, Lent 2024 and Easter 2024.


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