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Archaeological Sciences

MSc



2024 - 2025

Duration

Start date

Location

Suitable for applications.

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This course has encouraged me to work independently and expand my own ideas and data. I've really developed in all areas of mainstream archaeology and in my abilities as a researcher. Maedeh, MSc Archaeological Sciences

Entry requirements

We welcome applications from all potential students and most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of your potential to benefit from your studies and of your ability to succeed on this particular programme. Consideration of applications will be based on a combination of formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience.

The standard entry requirements for the programme are:

  • A first degree in Archaeology or another relevant discipline, normally with a second-class degree or higher or equivalent for UK students
  • Admission will be judged on an individual basis of overseas students, at an equivalent level to UK entry requirements
  • For North American students normally a GPA of at least 2.5 on a scale of 4.0 is required, or an equivalent

Admissions are made on the basis of demonstrated ability, qualifications, experience, references, and, occasionally, interviews. A completed application form, references, official transcripts, or a list of programmes/modules and grades/marks stamped by your undergraduate department or student registry are required of all applicants.

Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate and recognise this learning in order to provide applicants with exemptions from specified modules or parts of the programme.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have IELTS at 6.0 or the equivalent, with no less than 5.5 in each sub test.

If you do not meet the IELTS requirement, and you have a UKVI approved IELTS, you can take a University of Bradford pre-sessional English course. See the Language Centre for more details. For further information on English Language requirements please see the dedicated international entry requirements page.

Learning and assessment

The teaching and learning strategy takes into consideration the learning outcomes, the nature of the subject, and the need for you to take responsibility for your own learning as part of this advanced taught programme.

The thematic modules are delivered in a combination of formal lectures, student-led intensive seminars/tutorials and extensive practical instruction. Coursework (laboratory and field reports, worksheets, essays) is geared towards demonstrating relevant knowledge, understanding and professional skills in principal approaches to the application and use of scientific methods in archaeology. Elements of group work are part of core specialist modules; communication skills are tested in both written and oral form in several modules.

The degree progresses through a spiral curriculum, with each teaching / assessment block developing and building on prior learning. The underlying knowledge and understanding is then drawn upon in the Dissertation (c.15000 words) which encompasses a substantial piece of original research, ultimately assessed for its publishable merit.

The assessment strategy is designed to support the learning outcomes of each specific module. It uses a wide range of assessment methods, including coursework (worksheets, critiques, laboratory reports, research design, essays), exams (practical tests), and oral presentations. Assessment elements are regularly structured in a way that allows you to benefit from formative learning towards summative assessment.

University of Bradford honoured with Queen’s Anniversary Prize for outstanding archaeology

We have been awarded a 2021 Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for our world-leading work in developing archaeological technology and techniques and its influence on practice, policy and society.

The prestigious accolade, which honours world-class excellence and achievement, is the highest form of national recognition that UK higher education institutions can achieve. The University has been honoured for its leadership and innovation in pioneering the techniques, technology and practices of archaeology both in the UK and worldwide.

logo for the queens anniversary prize 2021

Study support

A comprehensive support network is here for you to ensure you reach your academic potential and go on to further success in the future.

You’ll benefit from a range of support services, including:

  • personal academic tutor
  • student support / administration team
  • Academic Skills Advice service
  • Career and Employability Services
  • award-winning Disability Service
  • well stocked libraries and excellent IT facilities

Research

Archaeology engages the entire human past in all its temporal and spatial dimensions. It is fundamental to our understanding of how we evolved and our communities developed, and how we study, preserve and interpret our past.

At Bradford, our distinctive approach emphasises the integration of the natural and physical sciences in this enquiry. In accordance with the University’s mission, making knowledge work, the School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences aims to provide excellence in a comprehensive range of archaeological topics, with emphasis on both teaching and research, believing the two activities to be mutually dependent.

This is the current course information. Modules and course details may change, subject to the University's programme approval, monitoring and review procedures. The University reserves the right to alter or withdraw courses, services and facilities as described on our website without notice and to amend Ordinances, Regulations, fees and charges at any time. Students should enquire as to the up-to-date position when applying for their course of study.