University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This MRes combines intensive research training with subject-specific modules and a substantial supervised research dissertation. Core training typically covers archaeological research design, advanced quantitative and qualitative methods, data management, and research ethics. You will also study theoretical approaches to archaeology and gain hands-on experience with specialist scientific and technical techniques such as geoarchaeology, palaeoenvironmental analysis, zooarchaeology, artefact analysis, and GIS depending on your choices.

• Research methods and professional practice in archaeology
• Theory and interpretation in contemporary archaeology
• Specialist option modules (for example: landscape archaeology, archaeological science techniques, material culture studies, bioarchaeology)
• Advanced quantitative analysis and spatial methods (including GIS and remote sensing)
• Major independent research dissertation under one-to-one supervision

The balance between taught components and independent research prepares you to design and execute a significant piece of original research, including data collection, analysis and written dissemination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in archaeology or a closely related discipline such as anthropology, heritage studies, earth sciences or geography. Relevant practical experience — for example fieldwork, laboratory work or employment in heritage or museum contexts — is advantageous.

Where applicants have an appropriate postgraduate qualification or substantial research experience but not the standard undergraduate classification, admission may be considered on a case-by-case basis. You will need to demonstrate a clear research focus and the ability to pursue a sustained independent project. International applicants must also meet the University’s English language requirements (evidence of a recognised qualification at the required level is required).

Career prospects

Graduates from the MRes are well placed to progress to PhD study and academic research careers. The programme also prepares students for professional roles that require high-level research skills, critical analysis and specialist technical expertise.

• Doctoral research and academic positions in archaeology and related disciplines
• Research and project management roles in commercial archaeology and cultural resource management
• Specialist scientific and technical posts (e.g. artefact analysis, bioarchaeology, GIS and environmental reconstruction)
• Museum curatorship, collections management and conservation
• Heritage management, policy, consultancy and public archaeology

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a research-led environment with access to experienced supervisors working across a wide chronological and methodological range. Students benefit from well-equipped laboratories and analytical facilities, opportunities for fieldwork and collaborative projects, and connections with regional and national heritage organisations.

The programme emphasises close supervision and personalised research training, enabling you to develop a distinct research profile. It is suited to those who want rigorous methodological grounding alongside the freedom to pursue original research that contributes to contemporary archaeological debates and professional practice.