MA Architectural History and Archaeology

4 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The MA Architectural History and Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh blends the study of historic buildings with archaeology, offering an interdisciplinary approach to understanding human history through spaces and material culture. It’s perfect for students who are curious about architecture, heritage, and how the past shapes the present.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll start with the essentials: foundational courses in archaeology and architectural history, learning how to interpret buildings and material remains, alongside hands-on fieldwork that gives real-world experience.

Year 2
The focus shifts to heritage, conservation, and urban history, combining theory with practical archaeological methods to understand how past societies lived and built their environments.

Year 3
You’ll explore architectural theories, specialised archaeological methods, and opportunities for work placements, preparing you for independent research and professional practice.

Year 4
The final year lets you dive deep into your chosen interests with specialist courses and a dissertation, developing original research skills and critical analysis.

Focus Areas

Architecture and material culture, heritage conservation, urban history, archaeological practice.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates can analyse architectural and archaeological sources, conduct independent research, and communicate insights effectively, with skills in heritage assessment and historical argumentation.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Strong links with heritage organisations like Historic Environment Scotland provide professional exposure, especially for careers in conservation, research, and heritage management.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

Edinburgh is highly ranked in Architecture and History of Art, Architecture & Design, with graduates well-positioned for careers in heritage, museums, and research

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in this programme gain hands-on experience from the very beginning, combining classroom learning with practical opportunities that bring architectural history and archaeology to life. Early fieldwork, typically a few weeks in Year 1, allows you to work directly on archaeological sites, understanding excavation and site analysis first-hand. Back on campus, you’ll use specialist laboratories and research facilities, exploring real artefacts and architectural materials while developing skills in digital modelling and conservation techniques.

Some of the experiential opportunities include:

Archaeology Labs: Access to teaching and research labs, including spaces for artefact processing, skeletal analysis, and material conservation.
Research Collections: Work with curated collections of global artefacts that support both learning and student-led research.
Digital Tools & Studios: Use 3D scanners and printers to model architectural forms and archaeological finds, enhancing practical skills with modern technology.
Library Resources: Dedicated libraries for art, architecture, and archaeology, plus special collections that support independent research.
Study Spaces & Research Rooms: Quiet, equipped areas for focused study, group work, and project preparation.
Fieldwork & Placements: Opportunities for site-based learning and professional placements with heritage organisations, building experience in real-world conservation and research projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of meaningful careers, including heritage manager, conservation officer, archaeologist, or museum curator. With strong research, analytical, and communication skills, you’ll be ready to interpret, preserve, and manage the built and material environment in public, private, or third-sector roles.

Here’s how the University of Edinburgh helps you turn your degree into a career:

Dedicated careers support through the School and the University’s Careers Service, available while you study and for up to two years after graduation.
Around 88% of graduates in History and Archaeology go on to work or continue their studies within 15 months of finishing the degree.
Typical starting salaries for graduates in related fields are in the region of £25,000.
Opportunities for assessed placements with heritage organisations, including Historic Environment Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland.
Long-term professional value: skills in architectural history and archaeology are directly relevant to heritage policy, conservation planning, land management, and research roles.
Alumni often take on positions as conservation officers, heritage consultants, teachers, or work in archaeological firms.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you could continue with postgraduate studies, such as a Master’s in architectural conservation or public archaeology, or a PhD in areas like heritage studies, architectural history, or archaeological theory, building on your research skills and subject expertise.