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Arts & Humanities

MSc in Archaeological Science at University of Oxford

University of Oxford, United Kingdom

Programme overview

A 12-month full-time taught master's that gives a broad grounding in the theory and practice of science applied to archaeology. It suits archaeologists wanting to apply scientific methods and scientists wanting to learn about archaeological questions, and acts as preparation for doctoral research.

Faculty: Social Sciences Division  |  Department: School of Archaeology (Research Laboratory for Archaeology)  |  Duration: 12 months full time  |  Intake: 10 October 2027  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Three core modules (materials analysis and the study of technological change, molecular bioarchaeology, and principles and practice of scientific dating) taught over two nine-week terms, followed by a five-month research project.

Career pathways

Graduates continue to further degrees in archaeology, especially at Oxford, or move into archaeological project management, commercial archaeology, industry and heritage management.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in archaeology or a related subject such as anthropology, history, classics, history of art, geography, geology, biology, physics or environmental studies; a minimum of 67% is usually expected and most successful applicants hold a first (over 70%). US bachelor's applicants normally need a minimum GPA of 3.6/4.0 (most successful applicants 3.7). Applicants may have an archaeological or science-based background, with some experience of both advantageous; substantial professional experience may be taken into account. No GRE or GMAT. Application: three referees (academic preferred), transcripts, personal statement (max 500 words) and two essays (max 2,500 words each). Deadlines for 2027-28 entry: 7 January 2027 (to be considered for Oxford scholarships) and 2 March 2027 (final). English language (higher level): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 overall (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall and 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall and 155 per component. Tests must be taken no more than two years before the course start.

Domestic applicants: GBP 21,870 a year (2027/28) Source

International applicants: GBP 40,730 a year (2027/28) Source

Intake: 10 October 2027

Duration: 12 months full-time

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