MA in Archaeology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Durham University

Program Overview

Durham University’s MA in Archaeology is a one‑year, research-led master’s that deepens your understanding of ancient cultures, heritage, and archaeological methods. It’s perfect for students aiming for careers in heritage management, commercial archaeology, or academic research, offering the flexibility to explore topics that match your interests.

Curriculum Structure

You’ll start with core modules on research skills and practical archaeological techniques, including GIS, 3D modelling, and geophysics. In the next stage, you’ll choose specialist topics such as Landscape Archaeology, Classical Archaeology, or Medieval Archaeology, allowing you to focus on areas you are passionate about. The program concludes with an independent dissertation, giving you the chance to carry out original research under expert supervision.

Focus Areas

Landscape Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Classical & Roman Archaeology, Medieval & Post‑Medieval Archaeology, Egypt, Near East & South Asia, East Asia.

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced research and analytical skills, practical technical expertise, and the ability to conduct original, independent research. You’ll be prepared to contribute to academic, heritage, or commercial archaeology projects.

Professional Alignment

The program equips you with the practical and theoretical knowledge valued in professional archaeology, heritage management, and related sectors.

Reputation & Employability

Durham’s Archaeology department is internationally respected, consistently ranking among the top programs worldwide. Graduates move into careers such as heritage management, commercial archaeology, museum work, and academic research

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA Archaeology, you’ll gain hands-on experience with real-world archaeological methods, cutting-edge labs, and specialist digital tools. You’ll learn by doing — not just listening in lectures — and have opportunities to work on both practical projects and research under expert supervision.

Here’s how this looks in practice:

Use the Informatics Lab for landscape archaeology projects, working with GIS, spatial analysis, and remote sensing software.
Build 3D models of sites and artefacts in the Digital Visualisation Lab, helping you interpret findings through immersive digital reconstructions.
Conduct analyses in the Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Lab, ideal for bioarchaeology and environmental research.
Gain practical experience in the Conservation Lab, learning techniques like freeze-drying, X‑radiography, and artefact casting.
Participate in fieldwork through Durham Archaeological Services, including excavations at significant sites.
Explore experimental archaeology in the nearby Botanic Garden, practicing techniques like flint knapping, hearth building, or ancient crop planting.
Access research collections such as skeletal and zooarchaeological samples for both coursework and dissertation projects.

This combination of labs, fieldwork, and hands-on research ensures that you leave the program with both the technical expertise and practical experience valued by employers and research institutions.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA Archaeology at Durham leave equipped for careers in heritage, research, or commercial archaeology. Typical roles include heritage manager, commercial archaeologist, museum curator or education officer, and academic researcher or lecturer. Your studies combine practical skills, research expertise, and professional experience, giving you a strong foundation for the next step in your career:

Durham’s Careers & Enterprise Centre offers personalised guidance, employer workshops, and sector-specific events to help you plan and launch your career.
Recent graduate outcomes show that a high percentage of Durham alumni are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months of graduation.
The department maintains strong connections with heritage organisations and commercial archaeology projects, giving students access to professional networks and applied experience.
Training in scientific methods such as isotope analysis, GIS, and remote sensing, alongside a dissertation project, enhances your long-term credibility across academia, conservation, and heritage sectors.
Alumni frequently go on to PhDs, join consultancies, or take up roles in heritage organisations, supported by Durham’s reputation and its active alumni network.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MA, you could pursue a PhD in Archaeology with specialisation in areas such as landscape archaeology, bioarchaeology, or digital archaeology. You might also explore postgraduate professional pathways in cultural heritage management, museum studies, or conservation, building on the research and practical skills gained during your master’s.