Archaeological Science Master of Philosophy - MPhil

The MPhil in Archaeological Science aims to introduce students to the main theories and research approaches in archaeological science, particularly within the fields of archaeological materials science, environmental archaeology and biomolecular archaeology. The course will:

provide a wide-ranging and challenging introduction to the theoretical issues involved in archaeological science;

offer an in-depth understanding of approaches to scientific analysis and interpretation in the context of archaeological research;

foster the ability to develop original research questions and to explore them effectively using scientific methods;

offer training relevant to a professional and/or research career in archaeological science.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this MPhil, students should have:

Gained a detailed understanding of current theoretical and practical perspectives in archaeological science.

Developed their critical faculties in a discussion, debate, and evaluation of alternative interpretations and perspectives on scientific data.

Developed transferable skills such as writing, presentation, data analysis and laboratory protocols

Carried out a substantial programme of independent research resulting in a dissertation on a topic that demonstrates theoretical understanding and practical competence in science-based archaeological analysis and interpretation.

Continuing
Students taking the MPhil in Archaeological Science 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 appropriate skills are in place prior to admittance to the PhD programme.