Maritime Archaeology (MA)

A 2:1 degree in a one of the following subjects:

• archaeology
• anthropology
• history
• another relevant subject

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:

We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

The programme includes 5 taught modules and a dissertation.     You’ll take 2 modules covering the theory and methodology of maritime archaeology. 

Over the course of the year you’ll take the equivalent of a 3-week field school. Our aim is to teach each technique in its best environment, providing the fastest possible learning curve.    Students also have the opportunity to participate in ongoing field projects run by members of staff and associated organisations. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

Activities are designed to enhance your intellectual and research skills. They include: 

• tutor-led and student-led lectures 
• seminars 
• tutorials 
• group projects (both desk-based and in the field) 
• oral presentations 
• the design of your dissertation project 

Assessment

We’ll assess you knowledge and understanding of the course material through: 

• written work 
• project work 
• reports 
• formal oral presentations 
• dissertation 

Your masters tutor will give you regular and supportive advice, guidance and feedback on your progress. 

Dissertation

You’ll need to complete a 25,000-word dissertation, requiring around 600 hours of preparation and writing time. Throughout this period we’ll provide tutorial support from a dedicated dissertation supervisor and the dissertation co-ordinator.

Academic Support

We’ll assign you a personal tutor, and you’ll have access to a senior tutor. 

Graduates from this programme will be suited to work in a wide range of careers. Specifically they will be well suited to maritime archaeological posts in: 

• academic, commercial, and cultural resource management 
• heritage 
• tourism 
• non-governmental organisations (NGO) 

More broadly the skills and knowledge developed are appropriate to work in offshore industries, the media and business settings. 

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,250.
• EU and international students pay £19,850.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.

Find out how to:

• pay your tuition fees

• calculate your student finances

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:

• accommodation costs

• living costs

• budgeting advice

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

1. Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
2. Search for the course you want to apply for.
3. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
4. Submit your application.

Application deadlines

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We'll assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

We may invite you to an interview, which will take place by phone if you live abroad. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if we'd like to talk to you before offering you a place.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000