The MPhil in Archaeology allows students to gain a critical appreciation of archaeology, the human past, and its place in the modern world, as well as training in research and analytical skills and expertise in a chosen, specialist area. Through research-led teaching, staff and students interact in lectures, seminars, language classes and laboratory-based practicals with the aims of mastering the basics of theory and method. Students may also participate in ongoing research projects.
Students may choose to specialise in any of the following options, if available. Prospective applicants are advised to check with the Department before applying to find out which options are available for the forthcoming year:
All MPhil students in the Department of Archaeology take a Research Skills module and write a dissertation. Students take mandatory modules in their chosen specialisation and may also choose from a list of optional modules offered within the Department of Archaeology. All module choices must have the approval of the module's instructor and the MPhil in Archaeology coordinator.
The University of Cambridge publishes an annual Code of Practice which sets out the University’s expectations regarding teaching and examination of MPhil degrees.
Students can expect to receive termly online progress reports. Supervisors or module coordinators may provide additional written or oral feedback on assessed work.
Students are invited to group meetings throughout the year to discuss progress and concerns in order to address issues as and when they arise.
The dissertation is an extended piece of independent, original research. Students work with their supervisor to formulate a dissertation project, carry out research and write it up. The maximum permitted length of the dissertation is 15,000 words.
Assessment will be through a range of formats which may include coursework, written and oral examinations, posters, presentations and projects.
Attendance at the relevant Research Skills training workshops is required of all MPhil students in the Department of Archaeology. Its mode of assessment will usually include a research proposal and an oral presentation (supported by visual aids) to teaching staff and peers.
Applicants for this course should have achieved a High II.i Honours Degree .
If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country.
Please be aware that this is the minimum criterion for academic results and that attaining the minimum does not guarantee admission to the programme. Higher conditions may be set in some cases.
Students are expected to enter the MPhil in Archaeology from a range of backgrounds:
If you have a non-traditional academic trajectory or your most recent degree is five or more years in the past , please contact the postgraduate admissions administrator before making an application so we can advise you appropriately.
University Minimum Academic Requirements
Score : Grade A & B (overall score of 193, with no element lower than 185 plus a Language Centre assessment)
Score : Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 with no element lower than 185).