Applied Landscape Archaeology MSc

University of Oxford

This two-year part-time Master of Science (MSc) course is concerned with the theories and methods of landscape archaeology. The course is intended for those with a degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) or an advanced diploma in archaeology or a related subject.

This MSc is a part-time modular course over two years, leading to a University of Oxford graduate degree in archaeology. The course is designed for the needs of students who wish to study part-time, and this includes those who are in full-time employment. Those with a personal or professional interest in landscape archaeology are welcome to apply.

Landscape archaeology is an increasingly popular and widely understood concept. Using a multi-period approach, it is concerned with understanding past human impacts on the resources, topography and environment of the whole landscape, from uplands to coasts, and from farmed landscapes to urban/industrial areas.

Many newer methods of research are being developed in landscape archaeology, including digital mapping and geophysics and remote-sensing techniques such as LIDAR. These are taking their place alongside field-walking, historic landscape analysis, aerial photography and selective excavation to provide a flexible and effective armoury of techniques for the researcher. Skills such as survey and characterisation are becoming essential for anyone involved in the management of the historic environment. Effective communication of the value and potential of the historic landscape is vital in the world of planning, tourism, outreach and education.

The course involves a combination of academic study and field practice. It is designed to appeal to those who already have experience of studying archaeology (or a closely-related subject) at undergraduate or postgraduate level and who wish to expand their academic, practical and professional skills in landscape archaeology.

With a strong (but not exclusive) emphasis on the archaeology of Britain in our teaching, the course focuses on the applications of research methods in varying landscape situations. The course format is flexible and enables students to pursue their own research interests leading to a 15,000-word dissertation. This can be on a theme, area or subject in Britain or elsewhere.

The course is taught using a combination of lectures/seminars in Oxford, field visits and practical work, supported by tutor contact and information supplied via a Virtual learning Environment (VLE) which can be accessed at any time. The majority of teaching takes place on Saturdays, normally between 10am and 4pm. There is a landscape survey training week in the early summer of the final year (Year B), which requires attendance over seven days (Saturday to Friday). Self-study in libraries or at home will form a major part of your experience on the course. Many students undertake some fieldwork during their time on the course. Dissertations are supported through personal tutorials with the course director and/or your dissertation tutor.