University of Exeter United Kingdom

MSc Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the MSc Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology at the University of Exeter, a postgraduate degree designed for those fascinated by the intricate relationships between past societies and the animal world. This programme delves into the critical role of animal remains in understanding ancient economies, environments, and cultural practices. You will explore faunal evidence to gain insights into past human interactions with animals, developing the skills to interpret patterns of hunting, husbandry, and resource use within their broader social and ecological contexts. This is an ideal course for aspiring bioarchaeologists seeking to specialise in zooarchaeology.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is structured over one year, combining 120 credits of compulsory modules with 60 credits of optional choices. You will engage with core subjects like Skeletal Anatomy, Research Design in Archaeology, and The Archaeology of Humans and Other Animals, alongside specialised optional modules such as Advanced Zooarchaeology or Zooarchaeology, depending on your prior experience. Your learning culminates in a substantial Bioarchaeology Dissertation, allowing you to conduct in-depth research. You will graduate with advanced analytical skills, prepared for careers in archaeological research, heritage management, and related scientific fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc Bioarchaeology program focuses on zooarchaeology, exploring the relationship between humans and other animals through skeletal anatomy and archaeological research. Students will engage with topics such as the archaeology of humans and other animals, and have the opportunity to undertake a dissertation. The curriculum also offers a wide range of optional modules, including advanced human osteology, funerary osteoarchaeology, forensic anthropology, and specialized courses in zooarchaeology, allowing for tailored study in related bioarchaeological fields.

1 Compulsory modules

Skeletal Anatomy
Research Design in Archaeology
The Archaeology of Humans and Other Animals
Bioarchaeology Dissertation

2 Optional modules

Professional Skills in Archaeology
Advanced Project
Musculature Anatomy
Plants and Animals as Craft Resources
Digital Pasts
Experimental Archaeology: Research and Public Engagement
Practical Pasts
Approaches to Pottery: Archaeology, Archaeometry, and Experimental Archaeology
Themes in Archaeological Theory and Practice
Discovering the Past with Molecular Science
Field Study
Landscape Archaeology: Understanding the Historic Environment
Material Culture
Advanced Human Osteology
Funerary Osteoarchaeology
The Archaeology of Humans and Other Animals
Researching the Historic Environment Online
Forensic Anthropology: Principles and Practice
Pandemics and disease in the ancient Mediterranean
Advanced Zooarchaeology [see note a above]
Zooarchaeology [See note b above]
Food and Agriculture in Historical Perspective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

39% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Streatham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Research & DevelopmentBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesBorder Control & Immigration EnforcementClinical Trials & DevelopmentDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEnergy Equipment & ServicesForestry & LoggingHigher Education & UniversitiesSales & Medical AffairsSupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amgen

AstraZeneca

EXPOSE

Environment Agency

GSK

Thermo Fisher Scientific

University of Exeter

University of Oxford

Why Study MSc Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSc Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, accepted tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE with specific score requirements. Check each test's score guidelines to ensure you meet the standards for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as zooarchaeologists, archaeological consultants, museum curators, cultural resource managers, or academic researchers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Our course combines traditional archaeology with natural sciences, focusing on animal remains to understand economic and cultural issues. You will explore past human-animal interactions and learn to interpret hunting and husbandry patterns.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology course starts in September. Ensure you apply on time to secure your place.
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