Science courses

About Archaeology (msci) in University of Southampton

Discover how human civilisations evolved, and why people and societies have changed over time on MSci Archaeology. Through the latest techniques and technologies, you'll investigate how our ancestors lived, from the earliest human origins, to Neolithic Britain, and Ancient Egypt. With fieldwork and scientific analysis opportunities across the world, this course also represents a great opportunity to choose your own study path.

Archaeology is the study of the human past through its material remains, such as its buildings, monuments, artefacts, biological remains, written sources and landscape.

On this archaeology MSci course, you'll focus on scientific methods and techniques with options including:

• studying human and animal bones

• scientific diving

• physics and chemistry of archaeological material

• laboratory techniques for dating

• maritime archaeology

The undergraduate grounding (following the framework of the BSc in Archaeology) will give you a foundation in scientific analyses in archaeology and anthropology.

The final year enables you to develop your own interests in specialist fields so that you can target the career path you want to follow, for example:

• forensic or bioarchaeological studies

• zooarchaeology

• geophysical survey

• underwater archaeology

We have a purpose-built archaeology building, equipped with the latest science-based laboratories. Here, you'll gain hands-on experience with archaeological artefacts and materials, and receive the practical training needed for a career in archaeology.

You'll do at least 3 weeks' fieldwork as part of an active research project. This could include excavating archaeological sites, recording a standing building, geophysical surveys or collecting archaeological material from ploughed fields.

There are opportunities for further fieldwork and placements in the UK and abroad. Read more on our partner institutions page.

We’re also offering up to 10 bursaries of £1000 each to incoming students (subject to criteria). These are from the Terry Mason Bursary and the University of Southampton Archaeology Bursary Fund.

Entry requirements

Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level

English language requirements

The University of Southampton accepts the following UKVI secure English Language Tests:

• IELTS (Academic) (International English Language Testing System)
• PTE Academic UKVI
• LanguageCert International ESOL SELT
• PSI Services (UK) Ltd; Skills for English UKVI (4 component)
• Trinity College London ISE (Integrated Skills in English)

Indian Standard XII in English Language (CBSE and ISC Boards)

Grade: 70% or above

IELTS score requirements:  overall score 6.5

University of Southampton Highlights

University of Southampton Cost of Attendance

For international candidates aspiring to study in the UK, it is mandatory to have an estimate of the cost of living at the university on-campus/ off-campus. The list of basic expenses to be considered for applying for admission at the institute is as detailed below.

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