University of Exeter

Program Information

Degree Offered

Masters by Research Archaeology

Format: Campus, Online

Program Description:

The Master by Research in Archaeology offers the opportunity to pursue a research project without entering into the commitment of an MPhil or PhD. The degree is ideal if you are employed, but would like the opportunity to pursue a specific shorter-term research project, resulting in a formal qualification. The distance learning option enables students to study from anywhere in the world.

The research culture in the Archaeology department at Exeter is characterised by internationally-recognised research projects and publication in a wide range of sub-disciplinary fields, including, wetland archaeology, environmental archaeology and biological anthropology, experimental archaeology, landscape archaeology, and material culture studies. It encompasses period interests from earliest prehistory through to the post-medieval period and includes geographic specialisations that stretch from the Americas (especially North and South America), the British Isles, Northern, Western, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Eurasia steppes.

To support your research, we offer are an established series of modules/courses in generic research skills and the University's Effective Researcher Development Programme, and the Department provides a weekly research seminar series in term time that includes presentations by research students, staff and visiting researchers. Staff are actively involved in societies such as the European Association of Archaeologists (EAA), the Society for American Archaeology (SAA), the Society for Medieval Archaeology, Society for Landscape Studies, the Society of Antiquaries, the American Association of Biological Anthropologists (AAPA), Association for Environmental Archaeology (AEA), and the British Association of Biological Anthropology and Osteoarchaeology (BABAO).

A MA by Research degree is assessed by a written dissertation of up 40,000 words. Unlike a taught Master’s degree, there is no taught element, so dedication, enthusiasm for the subject, and an ability to work independently are essential. The successful completion of the Master’s degree by research could lead to further Doctoral research.

The MA by Research in Archaeology gives you the flexibility to shape your own research in an area of particular interest to you. Our academic staff have a wide range of research interests across Archaeology and are able to supervise research in many areas of the discipline. For the latest information, please see our website. Our research web pages provide details of our research themes and projects. You can also view individual staff profiles for more details of the research interests of members of academic staff.

Accreditation:

University of Exeter

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: Yes