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MSc - Master of Science
University of Oxford
Part Time
OCT-25
2 years
Select a course option
MSc - Master of Science
University of Oxford
Part Time
OCT-25
2 years
Select a an exam type
About the course
This two year part-time Master of Science (MSc) course is concerned with the theories and methods of landscape archaeology. The course is intended for those with a degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) or an advanced diploma in archaeology or a related subject.
This MSc is a part-time modular course over two years, leading to a University of Oxford graduate degree in archaeology. The course is designed for the needs of students who wish to study part-time, and this includes those who are in full-time employment. Those with a personal or professional interest in landscape archaeology are welcome to apply.
Landscape archaeology is an increasingly popular and widely understood concept. Using a multi-period approach, it is concerned with understanding past human impacts on the resources, topography and environment of the whole landscape, from uplands to coasts, and from farmed landscapes to urban/industrial areas.
Many newer methods of research are being developed in landscape archaeology, including digital mapping and geophysics. These are taking their place alongside field-walking, historic landscape analysis, aerial photography and selective excavation to provide a flexible and effective armoury of techniques for the researcher. Skills such as survey and characterisation are becoming essential for anyone involved in the management of the historic environment. Effective communication of the value and potential of the historic landscape is vital in the world of planning, tourism, outreach and education.
Assessment
The course is assessed through a series of written assignments and a practical log-book. Two Core Papers (taught in Term 1 in each year) have two 2,500-word written assignments, and four advanced papers (taught in Terms 2 and 3 in each year) have one 5,000-word written assignment each. (Where an optional flexi-placement is taken, this results in a 5,000 word assignment which replaces one of the advanced papers). The landscape survey training week has a 2500-word practical log book, and there is a 15,000-word dissertation. All students are required to attend an oral examination (viva voce) at the end, in order to pass the course.
Graduate destinations
A number of students have gone on to DPhil/PhD programmes at Oxford and elsewhere, several of which have been funded. Others have developed their careers in UK and European heritage professions, including working for organisations such as Historic England, The National Trust for Scotland, Oxford Archaeology, National Museums Liverpool, Ministry of Defence, National Maritime Museum, McDonald Institute (University of Cambridge) county and regional heritage, HERs and curatorial advisory services, Portable Antiquities Scheme, and in commercial consultancy and field practice. Others have used the knowledge and learning experience gained on the course in their existing roles, such as in teaching, policy, or landscape management.
As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the equivalent of the following UK qualifications or their equivalent: a first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in archaeology or a related subject (typically history, historic environment, geography, environmental science, but for specific/personal advice on related subjects, please contact the course administrator); or a FHEQ Level 6 Advanced Diploma in archaeology or a related subject with the equivalent of an upper second-class or above; or a postgraduate qualification normally to the level of distinction in archaeology or a related subject. A BA/BSc degree (in combined honours) or a PGCert in a relevant subject may also be acceptable. For applicants with a degree from the USA or Canada, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.
Students living in
Domestic
£5,460 per year
Students from Domestic
This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
£14,330 per year
Students from EU
The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.
£14,330 per year
Students from International
The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.