V400 MA Palaeolithic Archaeology and Human Origins (1 yrs)
This course aims to examine the rich, global archaeological evidence for the study of our earliest origins, using Palaeolithic and Quaternary archives, and provides you with the basis for future research work.
Programme Overview
This programme offers a unique opportunity to study the material evidence of our evolutionary history.
You will be trained in the practical analysis of Palaeolithic stone artefacts and encouraged to place this knowledge into a broad framework based on current interdisciplinary research. This will enable you to investigate the key questions in human evolution, including the development of technology and language; to understand the reasons why society evolved; and to participate in the long-running debate about the fate of the Neanderthals.
The course is aimed at two groups of people:
- Those with an undergraduate degree in archaeology who wish to prepare themselves for research work and PhD. Our course is designed as a bridge between the undergraduate and post-graduate experience, and the practical aspect of this is particularly important. Many of our students go on to achieve success at gaining Arts and Humanities Research Council funding for their PhD.
- People with a lively interest in Palaeolithic archaeology and human origins who may not wish to pursue a research career, but who would like to deepen their knowledge of this most fascinating aspect of archaeology.
To Apply
How to apply for postgraduate study
If you have a question or would like further information, contact our admissions team:
Tel: +44 (0)23 8059 8062
Email: pgafh@southampton.ac.uk
Programme Structure
This programme is divided into 180 credits. 120 credits are obtained from taught modules with the remaining 60 credits relating to the dissertation.
Key facts
Duration: 1 year (full time); 2 years (part time)
Start date: October
Funding: AHRC Block Grant; Humanities studentships may be available
Closing date: 1 September
Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements
Degree
First- or upper second-class honours degree or equivalent
Selection process:
Intake: 8-15
Average applicants per place: 3
University application with transcripts and a sample of written work
Visit our International Office website or the NARIC website for further information on qualifications.
Modules
Typical course content
Two core modules cover the analysis and interpretation of stone tools and the context of human origins covering the past two and half million years.
Opportunities are provided to master practical skills in making, describing and analysing stone artefacts. Teaching is through seminars and practicals, divided between two semesters, and assessment is continuous. A module in research study skills is also provided, and two option modules are taken from the flexible Humanities MA programme.
The dissertation is a key component of the MA allowing you to explore a topic in depth, apply your new analytical skills and make a contribution to research. The last four months of the course is devoted to this component.
Year 1
Please note that we can not gaurantee certain courses (ARCH6001 and ARCH6051) will always be taught in the semester they are advertised in - this information should be used primarily as a guide.
Students may also take an Individually Negotiated Topic in either semester one or two, ARCH6072
Semester One
Students may consider taking a 'free elective' - they shuold contact the MA Convenor if they wish to take a non-Archaeology option.
Compulsory:
Optional:
- ARCH6099
- Palaeolithic Journeys
Semester Two
Students may consider taking a 'free elective' - they shuold contact the MA Convenor if they wish to take a non-Archaeology option.
Compulsory:
Optional:
- ARCH6090
- Intellectual Methodologies
- ARCH6099
- Palaeolithic Journeys
Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information can be found in the programme handbook (or other appropriate guide or website).
Learning and teaching
A postgraduate degree from Humanities at Southampton offers you the wide and varied learning experience you should expect from a leading research university. We are committed to providing a relevant, modern and above all enjoyable experience which will ensure you graduate with the additional skills and understanding you need to start a career in any number of areas or to go on to further research.
How will you learn?
On a postgraduate taught programme teaching is led by academic staff, allowing you to engage with, and contribute to, the world-leading research carried out in Humanities at Southampton. You will complete a core programme of research skills development in tandem with a series of modules which you select according to your personal aims and objectives. Each programme offers a wide and fascinating range of modules related to our specialisms led by academics who are experts in their chosen fields of research and who wish to engage you with their experience. Each module has a home on our virtual learning environment which serves as a starting point to find out more about each subject. Masters programmes have typically small seminar groups, facilitating your engagement with the ideas and themes that you feel passionate about. You will find yourself challenged intellectually and exposed to new ideas, approaches and perspectives.
A large part of postgraduate study is independent learning. Programmes will develop your critical awareness, encouraging you to reflect on the methodologies employed in further study and to apply these to the reading and research you undertake as part of your degree. Our courses have many unique and exciting additional opportunities such as visiting Chawton House Library, the former home of Jane Austen; studying the Broadlands Archive, containing the papers of Palmerston and Mountbatten; and the chance to hear from visiting speakers from international universities who are a frequent part of our research centre-led lecture and seminar series.
Assessment
Assessment at postgraduate taught level tests your key skills. You will be assessed by traditional means, such as essays, but, depending on the modules you choose, you will also be asked to work in groups and teams; to make presentations and to undertake fieldwork. You will also manage a large independent research project: the masters dissertation. The dissertation is a core element in establishing the acquisition of appropriate skills and the application of research techniques. Your masters tutor will be available to provide regular and supportive advice, guidance and feedback on your progress.
Professional development
A masters degree will enable you to further develop the key skills employers seek such as: time management; problem solving; team work; deadline and project management; cultural awareness; working independently; using your initiative; relationship-building; critical thinking and research analysis. Above all, you will learn to communicate your ideas and enthusiasm to a wide range of audiences.