Social Archaeology

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The School is amongst the largest in the University comprising the three popular disciplines of Archaeology, History and Anthropology, in addition to the Heritage Academy of Wales, the University of Wales Archaeological Service (UWLAS), and the Sophia Centre for the Study of Cosmology in Culture.

The School provides an ideal setting for a unique and interdisciplinary approach to study. For if Anthropology provides us with the theoretical apparatus to understand and unlock the present, then Archaeology and History take those same theoretical tools to help unlock, explore and explain the past.

Archaeology is more than the material excavated; current approaches emphasise the importance of trying to "people the past" and to understand the nature of social relations and practices that resulted in the archaeological record.

The MA in Social Archaeology explores and critiques theoretical frameworks used within archaeology. At the core of the MA is the discussion of theoretical approaches underpinning social archaeology, and how this is brought into current research projects within the School.

A good standard of education and a first degree in a relevant subject is usually required for entry to a Master´s programme. International students applying for study at postgraduate level will normally be required to show evidence of sufficient command of the English language to be able to follow their course, undertake research and produce writing without major linguistic difficulties. For example, this is usually the Cambridge Advanced or Proficiency Certificate, IELTS minimum score of 6.5, TOEFL minimum score of 575. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 575 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

UK Students

Unfortunately, funding is very scarce for postgraduate courses. Some funding is available from external bodies such as the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). The AHRC is funded by a number of sources including the British Academy and the Department of Higher and Further Education and offers support including professional and vocational awards and Studentships in the Humanities. Applications can be made via the Registry in February each year. Occasionally there are University of Wales Studentships available which are equivalent to the funding given by the AHRC, but these are subject to availability. A funding guide is available from the Registry. Most UK students are self-funding and many opt for Career Development Loans.

Overseas Students

Loans

American and Canadian students can apply for funding via the Federal Student Loan System for their respective countries.

Overseas scholarships

Overseas students may apply for Overseas Research Scholarships if they are intending to study for a full-time MPhil or PhD. Application forms are available in February of each year from the Registry and must be completed and returned to the Registry by the end of April in any given year. If candidates are successful in their application, fees are reduced to that of a home student.