Course content
We welcome students on this course for both full-time and part-time study.
For those wishing to complete the course on a part-time basis, the course is studied over two years. Students will be expected to study a minimum of three units per year, plus their dissertation (usually towards the end of their second year). The timetable of when the units take place vary each year, however, the units are timetabled during daytime hours, and will be studied with fellow full-time students.
Year 1 - Level M
Maritime Archaeology
Designed to provide you with a solid basis in the history and principles of maritime archaeology, you will learn through structured lectures, with field visits, in which you will further your familiarity with maritime archaeology through cases studies. You will be provided with the knowledge of basic material and site types present in the maritime archaeological record and the principles and scope of maritime studies, and an appreciation of how maritime archaeology is integrated, with other aspects of archaeology.
Underwater Cultural Heritage in situ - Degradation and Preservation
Understand the principles behind degradation and preservation of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH). You will learn through introductory lectures on the basic principles of both in situ degradation and preservation of the UCH, where basic theories are critically analysed and investigated in their rate of success or limits. This phase is then linked to lab analysis of the scientific factors affecting the degradation or preservation of the artefacts/samples.
Geographical Information Systems
Develop advanced skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geo-spatial analysis for environmental professionals. You will cover the principles of GIS and undertake practical training in GIS operation, potentially using both commercial and open source software packages. You will develop the ability to manipulate and interrogate spatial data of various kinds, whilst developing expertise in GIS and modelling.
Archaeological Field Investigation
You will have the opportunity to plan, monitor, record and report on an element of an archaeological field project, in which you have taken a responsible role using the methods, practices and skills typically used within professional archaeological projects and research. Prior to undertaking the fieldwork, you will gain an understanding of how to plan field projects and produce an appropriate project design, including health and safety and budgeting aspects. Having completed a supervisory field project, you will produce a report to industry standards. A minimum of four weeks experience of working on an archaeological field project would normally be expected to undertake this unit.
Research Skills
This unit introduces you to a range of academic research methodologies and the research environment. It provides an opportunity to gain experience in using generic research tools, as well as subject specific analytical tools and practical techniques relevant to your specialist subject area. It will combine a variety of learning and teaching methods including lectures, workshops, computer based learning, practical activities and small group work.
Research Project
Develop your expertise in research methods, data collection, analysis, interpretation and synthesis and explore in detail core aspects of your subject area, with a view to generating new practical or theoretical insights. You will develop methodological, research, presentation skills and advanced communication skills by producing an extensive dissertation or report on your research.
Optional units: choose 1 of the following:
Principles and Methods in Zooarchaeology
This unit will provide you with a solid basis in the principles of identification of mammals, birds and fish and the recording and analytical methods currently employed in the study of animal bones from archaeological sites. It will also provide you with an appreciation of how animal bone studies are integrated with other aspects of archaeology. You will learn mainly through practical workshops, in which you will further your familiarity with zooarchaeological assemblages and techniques, through the handling of material and by practical exercises based on that material. Case studies will explore how investigations of faunal remains can be integrated within the wider discipline of archaeology.
Professional Practice in Post –Excavation
Plan and undertake the post-excavation and specialist analysis of a relevant body of archaeological data and archive material using the methods, practices and project management skills commonly employed in the archaeological profession and in archaeological research studies. Prior to undertaking recording and analysis of a specialist material or data archive, you will gain an understanding of how to evaluate the potential of archaeological data and how to plan an appropriate programme of post-excavation analysis and design a suitable recording scheme for a selected body of material.
Humans, Animals and Diet
Gain a detailed understanding of the history of animal exploitation for food and the inter-relationships between humans and animals in different periods and regions. This unit aims to provide you with knowledge of the major developments in animal exploitation in Britain. A number of central themes in zooarchaeological studies will be explored that can be applied to the study of human diets in European, Asian and New World contexts. You will also be developing critical awareness of the range of cultural attitudes towards animals, in different human societies.
