This MA provides training in the documentation and interpretation of artefacts from archaeological sites and museum collections. Students benefit from a placement within a museum, an archaeological excavation or an archaeological unit where experience will be gained in the practice of finds analysis.

About this degree

Students are introduced to the skills of finds specialists. They develop the ability to identify, describe, document, catalogue and analyse artefacts and artefact assemblages. Subjects covered include the description of ceramic, lithic and metal objects. In practical sessions, we cover drawing, photography and work with databases. Many sessions make use of the institute's extensive collections. The programme will also raise awareness of different approaches to artefact analysis and introduce recent discussions on the subject.

Who this course is for

The programme is particularly suitable for graduates with a first degree in archaeology or a related degree who wish to develop their skills in the study and interpretation of artefacts from archaeological sites and museum collections, with a view to further research or a career in this field.

What this course will give you

Whether you plan a career as a finds assistant, museum curator or plan materials-based PhD, this programme provides you with the skills you need to successfully identify, describe and document artefacts and analyse assemblages. The emphasis is very much on practical application, so there will be numerous handling sessions and praxis-related tasks.

The large collections of the IoA cover most areas of the globe and offer a unique resource for honing your skills.

The UCL Institute of Archaeology is the largest and most diverse department of archaeology in the UK and provides a stimulating environment for postgraduate study. Its outstanding archaeological library is complemented by UCL's Main Library, University of London Senate House and other specialist libraries. UCL is located in central London, within walking distance of the British Museum and the British Library.

The foundation of your career

The degree is tailored to give graduates a solid grounding in systematically recording and documenting artefacts as well as analysing artefact assemblage. They will also have a basic understanding of creating graphs and diagrams, and analysing and assembling finds-catalogues. Without concentrating on any specific epoch, we give students the tools for understanding and systematically analysing any type of archaeological artefact assemblages.

Employability

Some recent graduates of the programme have gone on to artefact based PhD studies while others have pursued a very wide range of professional careers both within and beyond archaeology. The main career paths are working as finds assistants, museum curators or working in the antiquities service (PAS), recording and analysing finds.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through formal lectures, seminars and practical sessions. It can include a placement at a relevant museum or archaeological unit where students gain experience in the practical study and the recording of an artefact assemblage. Assessment of the core course is by a standard essay, six pieces of short work, a portfolio and the dissertation.