Archaeology

Course details Drawing on the wealth of expertise and experience within the department, the MA in Archaeology offers you the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to build a fascinating and challenging career in commercial archaeology, heritage management, research, or the wider employment market. You may be able to choose from around six diverse strands such as: Landscape Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, the Archaeology of Egypt, the Near East and Asia, the Archaeology and Heritage of East Asia, Classical and Roman Archaeology, and Medieval and Post Medieval Archaeology. During the course, you will also develop your abilities and experience in areas such as the collection, management and analysis of archaeological data and materials, current archaeological approaches, methods and practice and the presentation of archaeological research.

Why Durham University? The Department of Archaeology is home to one of the largest postgraduate communities in Europe who benefit from world class academic teaching and leading-edge facilities to be able to pursue their passion for studying the past, interpreting the present and understanding the future. The wide-ranging courses are research-led and delivered by staff who are recognised experts in specialisms that span world, European and British archaeology from the last ice age to the post-medieval period. Our taught courses provide the ideal grounding for further academic research at a higher level but also offer essential preparation for entering a professional career. With our expertise in a wide range of archaeological disciplines and significant research activity across the globe, our aim is to create a top-class learning environment that is vibrant and supportive and enables you to make a difference in your chosen field.

Facilities The Department of Archaeology has a reputation for excellence and connections across the world. We are home to state-of-the-art laboratories, specialist technology and some of the best library resources in the UK. Taught courses and researchers alike benefit from our status as co-owners of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the extensive range of library, museum and artefact collection resources on offer at Durham.

Careers Opportunities Our MA in Archaeology will undoubtedly equip you for a wide range of careers in archaeology, academia, cultural heritage management, research, and journalism, as well as many other careers that have a cultural, social, or heritage focus. We have developed the structure and contents of courses in such a way as to support your desire to pursue a PhD or undertake further academic work in whatever form. We offer courses that prepare you for a career in professional archaeology, or in the increasingly significant conservation, heritage, or museums sectors. You will also be well-placed for roles in tourism, environmental agencies as well as local and national government, teaching and law.