MA Archaeology

Compulsory modules

Theoretical Approaches and Contemporary Challenges in Archaeology

Explore the different approaches to archaeological theory as you compare their strengths, weaknesses and relevance. You’ll articulate complex arguments on approaches to subjects such as gender and identity, sustainability and global challenges, examining the inferences archaeologists make on human behaviour of the past and tackling how archaeology can help build a better future. 

Dissertation

Embark on an independent project that critically evaluates current problems at the forefront of archaeological method and theory. You’ll evaluate primary and published sources, analyse primary data, and potentially conduct original archaeological fieldwork.   

Optional modules

From Excavation to Publication: Professional Practice in Archaeology

Learn pre-excavation and post-excavation techniques as you follow an excavation project from start to finish. You’ll plan an excavation from inception to completion, creating a Post-Excavation Site Report using stratigraphic evidence and site data.  

Archaeological Graphics

Discover the role of graphic communication in archaeology and acquaint yourself with Adobe software. Gain insights into the technical aspects of creating various illustrations.

Research and Enterprise Placement

Apply your academic skills within a research placement and/or enterprise environment. You'll gain hands-on experience with grant applications and business proposals as you develop your own project.

Contemporary Issues and Debates in Heritage and Cultural Property

Learn about the concepts, institutions, politics, and legal claims of heritage and cultural property in the contemporary world. 

Food and Culture

Explore how the study of food practices contributes to broader archaeological and anthropological inquiries, enhancing our understanding of human populations across diverse cultural and chronological contexts.

Interpreting the Neolithic and Bronze Age of Britain

Develop your understanding of the archaeology of Neolithic and Bronze Age Britain. You’ll participate in a field trip to see some key Neolithic and Early Bronze Age sites first hand.

Themes and Approaches in the Study of Mesopotamia

Examine themes, issues and approaches in the archaeology of Iraq (Mesopotamia), with a focus on the early urban societies of the region, ca. 4000-1500BC. You’ll gain a systematic understanding and critical awareness of current knowledge and issues in studies of changes in Mesopotamian during this period.  

Material Culture and Identities in the Roman Empire

Explore provincial Roman material culture, with a focus on the difficulties of combining the practical and theoretical aspects of artefact analysis.

Becoming Urban in the Middle Ages

Discover the archaeological approaches used to understand the emergence and evolution of urbanism in the Middle Ages. You’ll explore a range of sources used by medieval archaeologists, such as features, artefacts, maps, written records, and environmental data.

These are the modules that we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.