V400 MSc Archaeological Computing (Virtual Pasts) (1 yrs)
Computers and information technology are increasingly important tools for both researching and managing archaeological materials.
Programme Overview
Taught within the internationally known research environment of the Southampton Archaeological Computing Research Group, in common with the MSc Archaeological Computing (Spatial Technology), this course will provide instruction in a wide range of computing skills that are used within archaeology including multimedia technologies, databases, WWW and electronic publication.
As archaeologists and other heritage professionals have become increasingly involved in the construction and presentation of increasingly complex and influential 'virtual pasts' so the need for qualified researchers and practitioners has increased. This course, in addition to providing a broad range of transferable skills, offers a means to obtain 'virtual archaeology' skills. This includes the creation of dynamic websites, graphic design and illustration, image processing and vector graphics. In addition it concentrates on the theory and practice of generating three-dimensional computer graphic models based on archaeological data, the theoretical implications of archaeological visualisations, computer aided design principles for three-dimensional design, architecture, animation and visualisation and emerging technologies including virtual reality. All are dealt with in terms both of their use in computer systems and their role in archaeology, and build on the expertise and hardware, and the specialist CGI, GIS and other software of the Archaeological Computing Research Group.
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)
Assessment: Essays, practical assignments, projects/portfolios
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
Visit our International Office website or the NARIC website for further information on qualifications.
Modules
Typical course content
The programme comprises six taught modules (four core modules and two options) plus a dissertation. Full-time students will take all taught modules during two semesters and complete their dissertation by the following September. Part-time students will take taught modules during four semesters, and complete their dissertation by the September of year two.
Year 1
Students may consider taking a 'free elective' as an option in both S1 and S2 - they should contact the MA Convenor if they wish to take a non-Archaeology module.
Students may also take an Individually Negotiated Topic in either semester one or two, ARCH6072
Semester Two
Compulsory:
- ARCH6082
- Computer Aided Design for Archaeology
- ARCH6100
- Constructing Virtual Pasts
- ARCH6064
- Dissertation
Optional:
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 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.