Archaeology

MA by Research Archaeology

Location

Streatham Campus, Exeter

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 Department of Archaeology 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 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.