The MPhil in Archaeology allows students to gain a critical appreciation of archaeology, the human past, and its place in the modern world, as well as training in research and analytical skills and expertise in a chosen, specialist area. Through research-led teaching, staff and students interact in lectures, seminars, language classes and laboratory-based practicals with the aims of mastering the basics of theory and method. Students may also participate in ongoing research projects.
Students may choose to specialise in any of the following options, if available. Prospective applicants are advised to check with the Department before applying to find out which options are available for the forthcoming year:
Archaeology of the Americas
Egyptian Archaeology
European Prehistory
Archaeology of the Global Middle Ages
Mesopotamian Archaeology
Palaeolithic and Mesolithic Archaeology
South Asian Archaeology
African Archaeology
Learning outcomes
The overall aim of the MPhil in Archaeology is to provide Master’s-level education in archaeology at the highest standard. By the end of the programme, students will have:
attained a critical appreciation of archaeology, the human past, and its place in the modern world and an understanding of the broader context, archaeological theories and methods of archaeology. By the end of the course, students will have developed an awareness of the professional and academic frameworks that shape archaeological practice globally.
been trained in a particular subject of specialisation through a coherent programme of teaching focused upon a specific topic, area, or methodology, as defined in the objectives of the course. Through their own independent research, they will have gained a nuanced understanding of the nature of archaeological evidence, its interpretation, and its broader cultural, ethical, and historical contexts.
attained advanced research skills, including the ability to design and execute independent projects, critically evaluate sources and data, and construct coherent, evidence-based arguments. They will have gained proficiency in relevant analytical, quantitative, or digital methods, as appropriate to their chosen area of study. The programme also fosters high-level writing skills, the ability to express and present scholarly ideas and reasoning, and to be able to defend the ideas and reasoning in a range of contexts and to a range of audiences.
been equipped to engage with professional archaeological practice, academic research, or policy-related work with intellectual rigour and ethical awareness.
Continuing
Students taking the MPhil in Archaeology 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 for 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 on the PhD programme.
Open Days
The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options.
Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars
Practical, step-by-step information about preparing a strong application for postgraduate study. Find out more on the Discover Cambridge webpage.
Virtual Postgraduate Open Days
The November Open Days focus on subject and course information. Webinar recordings are available until May.
Events for international students
Join us for Q&A webinars, funding webinars or get in touch with our regional managers. Find out more about events for international students.
For more information about all upcoming events visit our events pages.