MSc in Experimental Archaeology & Material Culture

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative journey with the MSc in Experimental Archaeology & Material Culture at University College Dublin, a programme designed for those passionate about understanding the past through hands-on creation and analysis. This postgraduate degree delves into the core of how ancient peoples lived, worked, and interacted with their environment by focusing on experimental archaeology and material culture studies. You will explore how to replicate ancient technologies, reconstruct past lifeways, and interpret the tangible evidence left behind, gaining critical insights into human behaviour and societal development. This course is ideal if you seek to develop advanced research skills and contribute to the dynamic field of archaeological science.

This full-time, on-campus Masters programme is structured over one year, immersing you in a rich learning environment. You will engage with core modules such as Material Culture and Experimental Archaeology: Making, Understanding, Storytelling, alongside practical experimental archaeology sessions. The curriculum also offers a range of specialist options in areas like Heritage Management, GIS, and Human Osteoarchaeology, allowing you to tailor your studies. Your learning culminates in a substantial Masters Dissertation, where you will apply your acquired knowledge and research methodologies to an original project. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with advanced analytical and practical skills, prepared for careers in archaeological research, heritage management, museums, and related cultural sectors.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc program delves into the practical and theoretical aspects of experimental archaeology and material culture. Students will engage in hands-on experimentation, explore the creation and interpretation of material objects, and develop critical skills in understanding how artifacts inform our knowledge of past societies. The curriculum also offers a range of optional modules, allowing for specialization in areas such as heritage management, landscape archaeology, or ancient technologies, culminating in a substantial dissertation project.

1 Stage 1 Core Modules

Masters Dissertation
Material Culture
Experimental Archaeology: Making, Understanding, Storytelling
Practical Experimental Archaeology

2 Stage 1 Options - A) Min 2 of:

Heritage Management Challenges
Nature & Culture: A Bridge
Land / Landscape
Archaeological Field Methods
GIS, Cultural Heritage and Spatial Thinking
Presenting & Managing Heritage

3 Stage 1 Options - B) Min 0 Credits:

Experiment Archaeology & Ancient Technologies
Communicating Archaeology
Archaeology, People and Cultures in Extreme Environments
Archaeology of Communities

4 Stage 1 Options - C) 0 of:

Human Osteoarchaeology

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,585.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 26,585.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfield campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

99%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesMuseums & Cultural HeritageSpecial & Inclusive EducationTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

Dublin City University

Maynooth University

National Gallery of Ireland

Trinity College Dublin

University College Dublin

Why Study MSc in Experimental Archaeology & Material Culture at University College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University College Dublin in Ireland

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 in Experimental Archaeology & Material Culture at University College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required for eligible students.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency can be demonstrated through various tests. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 120 or an IELTS overall score of 7.0 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Archaeologist, Museum Curator, Heritage Manager, Research Analyst, or Cultural Resource Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This transformative MSc program focuses on experimental archaeology and material culture studies. Students will learn to replicate ancient technologies and reconstruct past lifeways while developing advanced research skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc in Experimental Archaeology & Material Culture program admits new students every September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place.
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