This MSc programme concentrates on science-based archaeology and is ideal for you if you want to become post-excavation or artefact specialists in the museum or commercial sectors.
Introduction
There are two pathways to choose from: Artefact, and Landscape and Environment. Both pathways are suitable if you are a graduate in archaeology or a science subject and want to start or further your career in these exciting fields.
The programme is also useful preparation for further academic research and the skills you’ll gain, such as problem-solving and team work, will be attractive to any employer.
Fieldwork is an important part of research in archaeology and we have projects based internationally, in Egypt, Greece, Bulgaria, Jordan, Turkey, Italy, Zambia, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa, as well as in the British Isles.
Who is this course for?
This MSc is perfect for graduates in Archaeology or related disciplines who want to become post-excavation or artefact specialists, or go onto further academic research in Archaeology.
What you'll learn
Knowledge and critical understanding of the development of past and contemporary cultures through the application of scientific techniques
High level skills of archaeological science through applied analysis and interpretation, from methodological aspects of instrumental analysis to the analysis of specific sites or artefacts
Broad comparative knowledge of the archaeology of selected geographical regions and chronological periods
To demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the principles and methods by which archaeological data are acquired and analysed
To evaluate the variety of approaches to the understanding, constructing and interpreting the past
To design, research and present a sustained piece of archaeological writing.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
You will follow one of two pathways: Artefacts StudiesorEnvironmental Archaeology.
Artefact Studies pathway:
You will take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in Semester one.
Required modules for Artefact Studies pathway Semester one:
Research skills for ACE (ALGY 601)
Pyrotechnology: theory, evidence and experiment (ALGY 740)
Environmental Science pathway:
You will take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in Semester one.
Required modules for Environmental Science pathway Semester one:
Research skills for ACE (ALGY 601)
Wood in Archaeology and Palaeoecology: wood and charcoal analysis (ALGY 668)
Optional Modules
The optional modules available differ slightly depending on the pathway chosen, for more information please contact the Programme contact.
Compulsory modules
RESEARCH SKILLS FOR ACE M-LEVEL STUDENTS (ALGY601)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will provide students with a set of skills that is necessary for the development, structuring and presentation of their dissertation topic (which can be later applied to PhD research) alongside transferable skills (clarity of written expression, critical faculty, advanced level ability to structure and present arguments in a range of media, and project management) applicable to academic and non-academic work environments; The module also aims to develop your abilities to engage with current historiographical and theoretical debates appropriate to MA level in an informed, analytical and critical manner.
EXPERIMENTAL ARCHAEOLOGY: MATERIALS, THEORIES AND PRACTICES (ALGY740)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This strongly practical module provides an introduction to field of experimental archaeology with a focus on ancient materials and technologies. From the first use of fire to the glass furnaces of Medieval Europe, we will consider how our understanding of cultural material is shaped and extended by practical experience of materials, skills and processes. We will examine the history, the potential, and the pitfalls of experimental studies in archaeology and learn to identify archaeological questions and to design and carry out practical experiments to address them in the laboratory and in the field. The module provides a baseline for students interested in ancient materials and artefacts, or their production and use.
These skills can further developed in ALGY737 and/or through focussed dissertation research. The module is a good complementary module for students interested in lithic technologies studying ALGY763.
WOOD IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND PALAEOECOLOGY: WOOD AND CHARCOAL ANALYSIS (ALGY668)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module provides students with a detailed overview of the theoretical principles and practical applications of archaeobotany and plant macrofossil analysis, focusing on the study of wood, seed and fruit plant remains retrieved from archaeological and palaeoecological sites. Students will have the opportunity to learn hands-on how plant remains are analysed (including botanical identification, recording and data analysis methods), what sort of information can be gained for reconstructing past economies, vegetation ecologies, landscapes and people-environment interactions, and how such analyses are integrated with archaeological and palaeoecological fieldwork projects, and other classes of archaeological and palaeoecological data. The module is delivered through a series of lectures, laboratory-based practical sessions, seminars and tutorials. Assessment is through one essay (students have a choice from a range of topics), one lab-based project report, and a portfolio of work undertaken during laboratory practical sessions.
Optional modules
WOOD IN ARCHAEOLOGY AND PALAEOECOLOGY: WOOD AND CHARCOAL ANALYSIS (ALGY668)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module provides students with a detailed overview of the theoretical principles and practical applications of archaeobotany and plant macrofossil analysis, focusing on the study of wood, seed and fruit plant remains retrieved from archaeological and palaeoecological sites. Students will have the opportunity to learn hands-on how plant remains are analysed (including botanical identification, recording and data analysis methods), what sort of information can be gained for reconstructing past economies, vegetation ecologies, landscapes and people-environment interactions, and how such analyses are integrated with archaeological and palaeoecological fieldwork projects, and other classes of archaeological and palaeoecological data. The module is delivered through a series of lectures, laboratory-based practical sessions, seminars and tutorials. Assessment is through one essay (students have a choice from a range of topics), one lab-based project report, and a portfolio of work undertaken during laboratory practical sessions.
ROMAN FRONTIER SYSTEMS: FROM THE LATE REPUBLIC TO THE END OF THE FOURTH CENTURY AD (ALGY698)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The study of the frontiers of the Roman empire represents one of the oldest branches of European archaeology. Their study has traditionally complimented explanations of Roman history and therefore the foreign policies of the various imperial dynasties. The discipline of Roman Frontiers Studies has, however, tended to be subservient to an interpretative framework initially derived from historical sources. Today the archaeology of the subject is now sufficiently self-confident to stand independent scrutiny. In turn more recent scholarship on the subject of the frontiers of the empire have focused on them as zones and regions rather than simply as linear barriers. This fresh outlook has, in turn, occasioned a greater awareness of the evidence of life, military and non-military, in frontier situations.
ISSUES IN EGYPTIAN SETTLEMENT ARCHAEOLOGY (ALGY676)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is designed to promote key skills in the collection, analysis and interpretation of primary material (archaeological and textual) relevant to a reconstruction of the nature and organisation of settlement in ancient Egypt;
It will use detailed case-studies to encourage students to develop their ability to formulate and present independent argument using this archaeological and textual material as data;
It will further encourage the presentation of such argument and analysis in a coherent format as might be appropriate for publication.
REGIONALISM IN ARCHAIC GREEK WORLD (ALGY689)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module examines the formative period in the development of the Greek world, marked by the rapid expansion of Greek culture and the emergence of distinct regional identities. Using small-group discussions, we will utilise diverse forms of archaeological evidence combined with early documentary and epigraphic sources (in translation) to examine this crucial proto-historical period, for which there exists a large and complex body of archaeological evidence at a time when Greek writing systems and historical traditions are in their nascence.
EARLY TECHNOLOGIES (ALGY763)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
We live in a time of unprecedented technological change. As a species we are reliant on technological solutions to many of the world’s problems, including those created by technology such as climate change. This module provides the deep time context for understanding how we came to be so dependent on the things we make. We will examine the archaeological evidence for early technologies based on stone, bone and wood. And we will consider the social processes in learning to be a toolmaker.
You will learn to make some simple stone tools and to analyse the tools in terms of the planning and knowledge of the materials involved. Basic descriptive statistics forms part of your practical skills learning. You will use these skills in the main assessment which is a written comparison of the tools you and your classmates have created. We conclude with a consideration of the broad sweep of general purpose technologies that are the foundations of our world.
EXPERIMENTAL ARCHAEOLOGY: MATERIALS, THEORIES AND PRACTICES (ALGY740)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This strongly practical module provides an introduction to field of experimental archaeology with a focus on ancient materials and technologies. From the first use of fire to the glass furnaces of Medieval Europe, we will consider how our understanding of cultural material is shaped and extended by practical experience of materials, skills and processes. We will examine the history, the potential, and the pitfalls of experimental studies in archaeology and learn to identify archaeological questions and to design and carry out practical experiments to address them in the laboratory and in the field. The module provides a baseline for students interested in ancient materials and artefacts, or their production and use.
These skills can further developed in ALGY737 and/or through focussed dissertation research. The module is a good complementary module for students interested in lithic technologies studying ALGY763.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
You will follow one of two pathways: Artefacts Studiesorthe Environmental Archaeology.
Artefact Studies pathway:
You will take 30 credits of required modules and 30 credits of optional modules in Semester two.
Required modules for Artefact Studies pathway Semester two:
Designing and Communicating Research (ALGY731)
Artefacts and analysis (ALGY 737)
Environmental Science pathway:
You will take 15 credits of required modules and 45 credits of optional modules in Semester two.
Required modules for Environmental Science pathway Semester two:
Designing and Communicating Research (ALGY 731)
Optional Modules
The optional modules available differ slightly depending on the pathway chosen, for more information please contact the Programme Lead.
Compulsory modules
DESIGNING AND COMMUNICATING RESEARCH (ALGY731)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
ALGY731 is a tutorial-based module that provides you with the opportunity to work with member of archaeology staff from the department examining key issues on a topic of personal interest. You will work with your chosen supervisor to identify a research topic, engage with and critically evaluate key literature and primary data, and evaluate the feasibility of potential dissertation topics. You will also have the opportunity to develop real public engagement activities on the basis of your research.
ARTEFACTS AND ANALYSIS (ALGY737)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
An introduction to the scientific examination of archaeological artefacts, this course provides students with a critical understanding of scientific research in the field of archaeological materials. It provides opportunities for the discussion of relevant theoretical and ethical issues in the study of artefacts and enables you to develop practical skill and experience in artefact analysis and reporting.
Optional modules
DECIPHERING SYMBOLS: APPROACHES TO AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE EARLIEST SYMBOLIC BEHAVIOUR (ALGY761)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
In the last 15 years, specialists have largely agreed that the defining characteristic of the behavioural abilities of modern humans is the ability to use symbolism defined as the use of one thing – such as a word, an object, a colour, or an image – to make reference to another. The recognition and identification of symbols and the interpretation of symbolic behaviour through the archaeological record, however, is considerably harder to prove than say, especially in the context of the first possible evidence.
There are significant problems in knowing what early symbols and symbolic behaviour might look like, the contexts in which it might operate and the advantages, if any, of its use as individuals living within cultures that are full of symbols and symbolic activity, and have been this way for tens of thousands of years. This module addresses three key aspects of symbolic activity in the context of human evolution. The first aspect relates to the identification of a symbolic and materially embodied behaviour as a distinctive and new element of anatomically modern humans and the inferred advantages that this capacity conveyed over hominins that did not possess it. The second looks at the evidence for the first material culture that is unambiguously identified as symbolic and the context of its interpretation. The third looks at evidence for more complex information recorded or presented symbolically, and the manner in which we can ‘read’ and unambiguously interpret these artefacts. As part of this process we shall also explore the various different ways in which symbolism, art, design, and communication have been given shape through academic language through the anthropological, art historical and psychological literature.
THEMES IN THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF ROMAN BRITAIN (ALGY634)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module explores a number of themes and issues which are central to the ongoing debate in the study of the history and archaeology of Roman Britain.
The study of Roman Britain was for many decades treated as an insular subject, where the part of archaeology was to supplement or ‘flesh-out’ the historical account of the island. In turn, many of the questions asked by Roman archaeologists of the island in that period arose from the framework created by the study of the historical/literary sources for the province, where their research was designed to illuminate particular events or circumstances revealed in the ancient written evidence. Since the 1960s, however, Romano-British archaeology has become more free-standing and its research directions have been influenced by theoretical developments in a range of disciplines including anthropology and sociology and especially prehistory. One of the consequences of these developments is that our comprehension of the so-called romanisation of Britain, a process which began in the C1st B.C., owes much to the work of specialists working in the Iron Age.
SOCIAL LIFE IN EGYPT (ALGY677)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module examines the socio-economic behaviour of the Egyptians, through the evidence of texts (literary and documentary) and the archaeological record (tombs, town sites, art and objects). Egyptian documents providing socioeconomic and legal data, and literary discussions of morality and of proper behaviour are compared to the
documentary and archaeological data relevant to a description of social life in Egypt. Social organisation is examined, at the personal family level and in the political context, and related to economic behaviour and economic organisation. The integration between social custom and law provides a focus for developing an independent appreciation of the social realities of an ancient society. Students are expected to use the acquired knowledge base, and theoretical frameworks for the study of ancient society, as a context for collection, processing and evaluation of specific primary data for research writing.
ECONOMIES AND EXCHANGE IN THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST (ALGY688)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces the students to key issues, methods and evidence essential to conducting archaeological and historical research on production and trade in the Ancient Near East, from the Fifth to the First Millennium BC, with a focus on the earliest history of Mesopotamia.
HUMAN OSTEOLOGY (ALGY762)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
In this module students are introduced, through practical classes, to the identification and study of human skeletal remains from archaeological / palaeontological contexts. The module covers the identification of adult and juvenile human bones, ageing and sexing, palaeopathological conditions and taphonomy. These aspects are taught through the assignment of one adult and one juvenile skeleton to each student, which they then study through the different classes. At the end of the module students provide a written report on their material. Students will also become familiar with how human / hominin remains have proven crucial to the understanding of one area of archaeology / palaeontology of their choice.
BRONZE AGE AND IRON AGE BRITAIN (ALGY786)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module covers the Bronze Age and Iron Age in Britain from 1600 BC until AD 43. We will focus on the development of later prehistoric studies in Britain, and the themes of settlement, traditions of artefact deposition, land use, burial traditions, and the understanding of later prehistoric social organisation. The aims of the module are to provide an advanced understanding of later prehistoric studies and an opportunity to practice critical method in approaching this material.
Introduction to Quaternary Micropalaeontology (ENVS542)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module intends to give a holistic insight of a number of marine and terrestrial microfossils that are conventionally used for reconstructing past environmental conditions for the Quaternary period, including recent past. Microfossils are biological indicators that can help to either qualitatively and/or quantitatively estimate environmental conditions such as atmospheric temperature and precipitation (pollen), sea-surface conditions (foraminifera, diatoms, radiolaria, dinoflagellate cysts), salinity (ostracods, diatom), pH (diatoms), sea-ice cover (diatoms, dinoflagellate cysts), etc. These conditions are of paramount importance for modelling past climate conditions and the data derived from microfossil assemblages enable to better calibrate models, which in turn, are essential to forecast future climate. In addition, microfossil assemblages help to understand the natural evolution of our environment as well as measuring the amplitude of human activities over time.
ARTEFACTS AND ANALYSIS (ALGY737)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
An introduction to the scientific examination of archaeological artefacts, this course provides students with a critical understanding of scientific research in the field of archaeological materials. It provides opportunities for the discussion of relevant theoretical and ethical issues in the study of artefacts and enables you to develop practical skill and experience in artefact analysis and reporting.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
The Dissertation (ALGY600) is taken over the summer vacation period for both pathways.
Compulsory modules
ACE MA AND MSC DISSERTATION (ALGY600)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
ALGY600 provides the framework for MA students, in the Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology, to undertake independent guided research on a scholarly topic of relevance in the discipline of their choice. This substantial piece of work is developed and written up over the course of the M-level study in conjunction with the ‘taught’ component of the programme.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
Most modules are delivered on campus in small group seminars and occasionally via lectures. Certain modules include practical work. Independent study is fostered by essay-work and set preparation for seminars that grows progressively demanding as your knowledge increases over the course. A range of bibliography is set to assist with independent study also. Feedback is given on all submitted work to help your reflective engagement and progress in future exercises and assessment activities.
The compulsory research skills module, ALGY 601 is delivered via a number of teaching sessions on subjects such as library and scholarly research and careers talks by members of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology.
Preparation for the MSc dissertation is undertaken over the length of the programme and completed in the summer period. You will receive one-to-one supervision sessions with a research-active member of staff who will oversee your research on your approved dissertation topic. As part of your dissertation work you may choose to: design experiments, carry out analyses of a body of data or perform GIS studies.
How you're assessed
Assessment is normally by essay and a portfolio of practical work but examinations are included in some modules.
Within the research skills module, ALGY 601, you will develop research skills through the production of work that is assessed and which includes a presentation of your dissertation research topic to a staff and student audience.
You will prepare for the MSc dissertation over the length of the programme, however delivery and completion will be in the final four months of the course. The dissertation counts for 60 credits (one third) of your masters. Your finished dissertation is assessed on the quality of your research, your handling of the scholarship, engagement with an issue, organisation and effective presentation.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Your experience
The Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology is part of the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures. Teaching takes place across campus, including in specialist facilities in the Central Teaching Hub and Garstang Museum of Archaeology.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
Why Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology at University of Liverpool?
Fantastic on-campus facilities such as the Garstang Museum with its outstanding archaeological collections and GIS suite for archaeological drawing
Our extensive laboratories used for conservation, lithics, geomagnetism, stable isotope, trace elements, finds processing and sample preparation
An enviable library which has been built up since the Ancient World and Archaeology has been studied at Liverpool since the 1880s
Opportunities to learn ancient languages such as Greek, Latin, Akkadian, Sumerian, Egyptian and Coptic
Archaeological projects based internationally, in Egypt, Greece, Bulgaria, Jordan, Turkey, Italy, Zambia, Kenya, Ethiopia and South Africa, as well as in the British Isles
The Archaeology MSc delivers career opportunities for further study and employment within the field of Archaeology. As a graduate of the MSc, you are also well equipped for a wide variety of jobs in private or public sector employment.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
The Archaeology MSc provides a strong platform from which to progress to further research at PhD level either within the University of Liverpool or at other Universities.
Career opportunities within Archaeology exist in sectors including:
University
Museums
Local government (posts in planning and archaeology)
Private professional archaeological companies.
With the Archaeology MSc you are also well equipped for a wide variety of jobs in sectors such as:
Finance
Journalism
Law
The police
Civil Service
Retail management
Environmental consultancy
Teaching
Tourism and heritage management (where high-level knowledge of archaeology and cultural heritage is a specific advantage).
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£11,700
Part-time place, per year
£5,850
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£24,100
Part-time place, per year
£12,050
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
A 2:1 or equivalent undergraduate degree in Archaeology or related field such as: Anthropology, some science subjects (Biological, Physics, Geology, Geophysical), History and Geography.
We are able to offer a level of flexibility for applicants. Those with a 2:2 honours degree will be considered on an individual basis.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
