About Archaeological Sciences Msc in University of Bradford

Overview

This MSc or Postgraduate Diploma in Archaeological Sciences gives graduates in Archaeology and related subjects a systematic training in the application of modern scientific methods.

It gives you the practical, analytical and interpretative skills you need to apply a wide range of specialist approaches, preparing you not only for research in archaeological science but also to pursue career opportunities in all areas of mainstream archaeology.

You will join a group of postgraduate students from across the world and have the opportunity to use a wide range of specialist facilities and collections, whilst being taught by internationally recognised, research-active academic staff.

You can use the course to obtain broad expertise in the field, or to specialise in areas such as:

• Environmental Archaeology, covering environmental change, subsistence and health through studies of animal bones, plant remains and biomarkers in human and non-human hard tissue.
• Landscape Archaeology, focusing on understanding and interpreting landscapes in the past using prospection methods, visualisation and GIS.
• Chronology and Biomolecules, specialising in the use of physical, chemical and biomolecular methods to study and date both human remains and artefacts.

Learning and assessment

The teaching and learning strategy takes into consideration the learning outcomes, the nature of the subject, and the need for you to take responsibility for your own learning as part of this advanced taught programme.

The thematic modules are delivered in a combination of formal lectures, student-led intensive seminars/tutorials and extensive practical instruction. Coursework (laboratory and field reports, worksheets, essays) is geared towards demonstrating relevant knowledge, understanding and professional skills in principal approaches to the application and use of scientific methods in archaeology. Elements of group work are part of core specialist modules; communication skills are tested in both written and oral form in several modules.

The degree progresses through a spiral curriculum, with each teaching / assessment block developing and building on prior learning. The underlying knowledge and understanding is then drawn upon in the Dissertation (c.15000 words) which encompasses a substantial piece of original research, ultimately assessed for its publishable merit.

The assessment strategy is designed to support the learning outcomes of each specific module. It uses a wide range of assessment methods, including coursework (worksheets, critiques, laboratory reports, research design, essays), exams (practical tests), and oral presentations. Assessment elements are regularly structured in a way that allows you to benefit from formative learning towards summative assessment.

Career prospects

The course prepares students not only for research in archaeological science, but also furthers career prospects in mainstream archaeology or scientific analysis. The course is well-suited both to students who wish to use it as a foundation from which to commence research or as vocational training to enhance employment prospects in archaeology.

Career destinations have included PhDs at Universities of York, Bradford, Oxford, Texas A&M, Catamarca; UNESCO research; archaeological project managers; conservation science and teaching.

Academic qualification equivalents

• Bachelors degree with an overall mark of at least 70-60% depending on your university. 

English language requirements (one of the below):

• IELTS          :      6.0 with no sub-test less than 5.0 (or equivalent)
• TOEFL        :      overall 80, and sub-tests not less than 18 in Reading,17 in Writing,17 in Listening and 20 in Speaking.             
• PTE             :      overall score of at least 55, with at least 46 in each of the four sub-tests 

University of Bradford Highlights

University of Bradford Average Tuition Fees And Other Expenses

The table below mentions the cost of attendance for 42 to 51 weeks. The cost may vary according to the needs of individuals.

University of Bradford Application Process

Application fee: 20-25 GBP

Supporting documents:

• Official transcripts of high school or college.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Scores of Standardized exams to study in the UK. (GRE/GMAT)
• CV or resume.
• Letters of reference (2)
• Work experience (graduates only)

English Proficiency Test Scores

Requirements vary per program but below are the general requirements

Note: Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the university temporarily accepts TOEFL at Home test, LanguageCert exam, and Linguaskill English test.