The Masters in Archaeological Studies provides a strong background in the methodological and theoretical approaches used in archaeology and the interplay between them.

Programme overview

• MLitt: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time
• PgDip 9 months full-time; 18 months part-time

The core courses provide a grounding in key archaeological principles that include

Practice: how we do archaeology, approaches to the discovery, excavation, recording and analysis of archaeological sites, and the organisation and structure of archaeology in the UK.

Theory: the development of archaeological thinking, theoretical and interpretive frameworks used by archaeologists, and the ethical responsibilities of archaeologists.

In undertaking this programme you will be encouraged to engage in practical activity, including fieldtrips in Scotland and beyond, and optional modules will allow further opportunities for site visits and lab work.

The optional courses offer specialist paths that allow you to explore particular areas of study in more detail. You can chose three optional modules from a list of relevant courses associated with other MLitt/PgDip degrees offered in Archaeology and more widely across the University. These courses draw upon the particular interests and expertise of the contributing staff and the options available may therefore vary slightly depending on staff availability.

You will produce a dissertation on a topic agreed between you and your convener. This research project is undertaken between May and September with the support of a member of staff who will act as supervisor.

Career prospects

The programme provides an excellent platform for you to move onto PhD studies and an academic career. In recent years many graduates have made careers in archaeology in the UK and USA.

Academic entry requirements

Entry requirements for postgraduate taught programmes are a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification (for example, GPA 3.0 or above) in a relevant subject unless otherwise specified.

In addition, you must have acquired some archaeological excavation experience prior to commencing the programme. If you do not have this experience we can offer the opportunity to participate on the departmental field school during the summer prior to entry.

International students with academic qualifications below those required should contact our partner institution, Glasgow International College, who offer a range of foundation courses.

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training):

• overall score 6.5
• no sub-test less than 6.5
• or equivalent scores in another recognised qualification (see below)
   

Common equivalent English language qualifications:

• ibTOEFL: 92; no sub-test less than 24
• CAE (Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English): B minimum
• CPE (Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English): C minimum
• PTE Academic (Person Test of English, Academic test): 68; minimum 60 in writing

Pre-sessional courses
The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the Language Centre Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• Language Centre, University of Glasgow
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses 

FAQs

Visa requirements and proof of English language level

It is a visa requirement to provide information on your level of English based on an internationally recognised and secure English language test. All test reports must be no more than 2 years old. A list of these can be found on the UK Border Agency website. If you have never taken one of these tests before, you can get an initial idea of your level by using the Common European Framework self-assessment grid which gives you a level for each skill (e.g. listening B1/writing B2 etc.) However, please note that this is not a secure English language test and it is not sufficient evidence of your level of English for visa requirements.

If you require a Tier 4 student visa, your qualification must be one of the secure English language tests accepted by UK Border Agency:

• UK Border Agency Tier 4 English Language requirements
• UKBA list of approved English language tests [pdf]

For further information about English language requirements, please contact the Recruitment and International Office: pgadmissions@glasgow.ac.uk

Apply now

For 2013-14

MLitt

PgDip