University of York

What you'll study

This MA combines taught modules with a substantial independent research project. Core themes include hominin biology and behaviour, Palaeolithic archaeology, lithic technology and analysis, zooarchaeology and taphonomy, and scientific dating methods. Teaching emphasises hands-on practical skills — for example stone tool analysis, skeletal identification, and lab-based approaches to chronologies — alongside theoretical and comparative frameworks for interpreting early human behaviour.

• Taught modules: seminars and practical classes covering human evolution, Palaeolithic cultures and industries, methods in archaeological science, quantitative and spatial analysis, and research design.
• Laboratory and practical work: focused sessions on lithic technology, faunal analysis, microscopic and imaging techniques, and use of specialist facilities for sample preparation and analysis.
• Research project / dissertation: an extended piece of original research supervised by York staff; students typically design, execute and present a project using primary data or re-analysis of existing collections.
• Skills development: training in critical interpretation, report writing, presenting scientific evidence, research ethics, and methods for working with archaeological collections.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree (UK upper second class or equivalent) in archaeology, anthropology, palaeontology, biological sciences or a closely related subject. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience or strong evidence of research potential may also be considered. Some background in archaeological method and theory or in quantitative/biological approaches is advantageous for practical modules.

International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements; evidence of previous academic preparation in English-medium programmes or an approved English test is required where applicable. Applicants should submit transcripts and a personal statement outlining research interests; a short research proposal may strengthen applications where a specific dissertation focus is intended.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of careers in academia, research and applied heritage practice. Common pathways include doctoral study in archaeology or human evolution, employment in museums and collections management, roles in commercial archaeology and fieldwork, conservation and curation, and research posts in archaeological science. Skills in artefact analysis, dating methods, data interpretation and research design are also valued in public engagement, heritage consultancy and education.

Why study at University of York

York's Department of Archaeology has a strong track record in Palaeolithic and human origins research and offers close supervision from active researchers working on stone tools, human evolution and archaeological science. The programme benefits from access to well‑equipped teaching laboratories, comparative collections and specialist analytical facilities, and interdisciplinary links across anthropology, Earth sciences and biosciences.

Students also benefit from York's connections with regional museums, commercial archaeology units and research networks, providing opportunities for collection-based work and field projects. The cohort size and supervisory model favour intensive feedback and tailored research development, preparing graduates for further study or professional practice in the archaeology and heritage sectors.