Program Overview
The Graduate Diploma in Hunter-Gatherer Archaeology offers a global perspective on the archaeology and anthropology of hunter-gatherer societies, past and present. Through core modules in material culture, key themes, research skills, and knowledge production, the program emphasizes the significance of understanding hunter-gatherer societies for insights into human identity and modern challenges. Students develop skills in project design, data analysis, and critical thinking, preparing them for careers in research, cultural resource management, and the heritage sector.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Graduate Diploma in Hunter-Gatherer Archaeology is a part-time program designed for students interested in the fascinating world of hunter-gatherers. The program focuses on the archaeology of Homo sapiens hunter-gatherers, with some discussion of non- Homo sapiens groups, but it is not a course on human evolution.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Introduce students to key themes in the archaeology of past hunter-gatherers.
- Explore the relationship between past and present hunting and gathering communities.
- Analyze the contemporary social context of knowledge production about hunter-gatherers.
- Develop skills in project design, independent research, data analysis, interpretation, and communication.
- Foster a critical and self-reflexive awareness of archaeological practice.
Outline:
The program is structured around a core set of modules, allowing students to focus on hunter-gatherer archaeology with options for developing complementary specialisms in:
- Archaeology
- European Prehistory
- Experimental Archaeology
- World Heritage Management
Trimester One:
- Optional Modules: Students choose options from the thematic areas listed above.
Trimester Two:
- Core Modules:
- Research Skills: This module equips students with the skills to design and develop research projects on hunter-gatherers, including identifying research questions, topics, and methods. The program is delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and fieldwork opportunities.
Careers:
The Graduate Diploma in Hunter-Gatherer Archaeology provides students with the skills necessary for careers in:
- Further research (academic or professional)
- Commercial archaeology and cultural resource management
- The heritage sector and tourism
- State sector bodies
- NGOs
- Education
Other:
- Students are encouraged to participate in the UCD Hunter-Gatherer Research Group, which hosts seminars, workshops, and other events.
- The program emphasizes a global perspective on hunter-gatherer archaeology, from the deep past to the present.
- The program confronts the problematic legacy of colonialism, racism, and social evolutionary models in the study of hunter-gatherers.
- The program aims to develop graduates who are academically excellent, intellectually flexible, culturally literate, globally engaged, and committed to issues surrounding equality, diversity, and inclusion.
In terms of higher education, notwithstanding Brexit, UK students will still be eligible for the EU fee rate.
University College Dublin
Overview:
University College Dublin (UCD) is a leading research-intensive university located in Dublin, Ireland. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. UCD offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCD provides a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. The university emphasizes the holistic development of its students, offering a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
UCD is renowned for its strong research output and collaborations with industry partners.Global Partnerships:
The university boasts a vast network of partner institutions worldwide, providing students with opportunities for international study and exchange.Transformational Learning:
UCD focuses on providing a transformative learning experience that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.Other:
UCD is actively involved in promoting sustainability and social responsibility. The university is committed to creating a positive impact on society through its research, teaching, and engagement activities.
Entry Requirements:
- MSc:
- Upper Second Class Honours (2H1) undergraduate degree (GPA 3.2, NFQ Level 8, or the international equivalent) in archaeology or anthropology, or other cognate disciplines (to be discussed with programme coordinator).
- GradDip:
- Lower Second Class Honours (2H2) undergraduate degree (GPA 2.7, NFQ Level 8, or the international equivalent) in archaeology or anthropology, or other cognate disciplines (to be discussed with programme coordinator).
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- If English is not your native language, proof of proficiency in English will be required, unless you took your primary degree through English. The minimum acceptable score on the TOEFL Internet Based Test is 90, on the IELTS system it is 6.5.
Huge and always expanding. Lots of course options and the professors care a lot about what they teach. Huge amount of students and clubs so there is something for everyone.
Finished my Masters in Food Safety here in 2019. Quality of education is pretty good. Facilities are on point. One of the better universities in Ireland. A lot of extra curricular activities organised all round the year. No racism or any other issue as per my experience. Teaching staff is quite knowledgeable. I loved my time there. 10/10
