Archaeology and Heritage MA

Program Overview

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The MA Archaeology and Heritage program at Birkbeck, University of London offers a comprehensive exploration of archaeological and heritage studies, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Through hands-on training, students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in archaeology and heritage management. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research and provides opportunities for fieldwork experience and potential work placements. Graduates are equipped for careers in various fields, including archaeology, museology, and heritage management.

Program Outline

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The MA Archaeology and Heritage program focuses on offering hands-on training grounded in the latest theories and techniques.
• It provides a comprehensive introduction to the major techniques, bodies of evidence, research themes, and concepts of archaeology and heritage studies.
• The program delves into the perceived gap between theory and practice in archaeological fieldwork and cultural resource management.
• It aims to develop a new type of professional who possesses theoretical awareness and practical craft expertise.
• The program fosters interdisciplinary, innovative research based on the critical, integrated study of landscape, architecture, and material culture.

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Program Structure:

• The program comprises a total of 180 credits.
• It includes one compulsory module (30 credits), three option modules (30 credits each), and a 15,000-16,000-word dissertation (60 credits).
• Option modules include a week-long field school offering intensive fieldwork experience and a potential work placement.

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Course Schedule:

• The program is offered both full-time (one year) and part-time (two years) on campus.
• Full-time students attend classes two to three evenings a week, while part-time students attend one to two evenings a week.
• Classes typically run from October to July.

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Individual Modules:

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Compulsory Module:

• Critical Approaches to Archaeology and Heritage: This module delves into the critical analysis of archaeological perspectives, exploring theoretical frameworks and practical methodologies.

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Indicative Option Modules:

• Curating as Critical Practice: This module examines the role of curators in shaping public engagement with heritage and explores critical curatorial practices.
• Imagined Landscapes of the Middle Ages: This module explores the interplay between medieval landscapes and the imagination, examining how these landscapes have been perceived and interpreted through time.
• Introduction to Geographic Data Science: This module equips students with the skills to analyze and visualize spatial data, applying these techniques to archaeological and heritage research.
• Material Worlds: This module investigates the material culture and technologies of past societies, exploring their production, use, and意义.
• Museum Cultures Work Placement: This module offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in the museum sector, working alongside professionals in a relevant museum setting.
• Museum Experiments: This module explores the role of experimentation in museum practice, encouraging students to develop innovative approaches to public engagement.
• Thames through Time: Birkbeck/MOLA Field School (Level 7): This module provides intensive fieldwork experience on the Thames foreshore, in collaboration with Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA).
• The Politics of the Past: Heritage in a Changing World: This module explores the complex relationship between heritage and politics, examining how heritage is used and contested in contemporary societies.
• The Silk Road: Imagining Global Cultures from the Middle Ages to UNESCO and BRI: This module investigates the Silk Road as a site of cultural exchange and interaction, tracing its historical and contemporary significance.
• The World of Rome in the Museums of London (Level 7): This module delves into Roman history and material culture through the lens of London's museums, exploring the Roman presence in the city and its wider context.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• The program employs diverse assessment methods, including:
• Source analyses
• Presentations
• Essays
• A 15,000-16,000-word dissertation

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are evaluated based on criteria such as:
• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Research
• Argumentation
• Writing
• Originality

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Seminar discussions
• One-to-one tutorials
• Fieldwork
• Group work

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and practitioners with expertise in archaeology, heritage, and related fields.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the program are equipped for careers in various fields, including:
• Archaeology
• Museology
• Education
• Heritage management
• Research
• Social research
• Historic buildings inspection
• Conservation
• Higher education
• Tourism

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Other:

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Scholarships:

• Birkbeck offers a range of scholarships for eligible international students, including the Global Future Scholarship.
• The program actively encourages innovative and engaging teaching methods to ensure an optimal learning experience for students.
• Students are provided with access to pastoral support via a named Personal Tutor.
• The program is designed to support students who are balancing evening study with work and other commitments.
• The program emphasizes the importance of independent learning and provides students with access to various learning resources and support services.

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Part-time home students: £5,400 per year Full-time home students: £10,800 per year Part-time international students: £9,915 per year Full-time international students: £19,830 per year