Durham University - Undergraduate Pre-application Open Day
26 Jun 2026, 08:00
Durham
Course details
Drawing on the wealth of expertise and experience within the department, the MA in Archaeology offers you the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to build a fascinating and challenging career in commercial archaeology, heritage management, research, or the wider employment market.
You may be able to choose from around six diverse strands such as: Landscape Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, the Archaeology of Egypt, the Near East and Asia, the Archaeology and Heritage of East Asia, Classical and Roman Archaeology, and Medieval and Post Medieval Archaeology.
During the course, you will also develop your abilities and experience in areas such as the collection, management and analysis of archaeological data and materials, current archaeological approaches, methods and practice and the presentation of archaeological research.
Why Durham University?
The Department of Archaeology is home to one of the largest postgraduate communities in Europe who benefit from world class academic teaching and leading-edge facilities to be able to pursue their passion for studying the past, interpreting the present and understanding the future.
The wide-ranging courses are research-led and delivered by staff who are recognised experts in specialisms that span world, European and British archaeology from the last ice age to the post-medieval period.
Our taught courses provide the ideal grounding for further academic research at a higher level but also offer essential preparation for entering a professional career.
With our expertise in a wide range of archaeological disciplines and significant research activity across the globe, our aim is to create a top-class learning environment that is vibrant and supportive and enables you to make a difference in your chosen field.
Facilities
The Department of Archaeology has a reputation for excellence and connections across the world.
We are home to state-of-the-art laboratories, specialist technology and some of the best library resources in the UK.
Taught courses and researchers alike benefit from our status as co-owners of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the extensive range of library, museum and artefact collection resources on offer at Durham.
Careers Opportunities
Our MA in Archaeology will undoubtedly equip you for a wide range of careers in archaeology, academia, cultural heritage management, research, and journalism, as well as many other careers that have a cultural, social, or heritage focus.
We have developed the structure and contents of courses in such a way as to support your desire to pursue a PhD or undertake further academic work in whatever form.
We offer courses that prepare you for a career in professional archaeology, or in the increasingly significant conservation, heritage, or museums sectors.
You will also be well-placed for roles in tourism, environmental agencies as well as local and national government, teaching and law.
For current information please scroll to the bottom of the page for Provider Information and select Visit our Course Page under Course Contact Details.
Discover what it's like to study Archaeology at Durham University: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
2.1 honours or higher, ideally in archaeology, or a related subject such as Anthropology, Cultural Studies, Art History and Theory, History, Classics, Oriental Studies.
A wider range of backgrounds may be acceptable, with equivalent degree and mature students with relevant employment experience or other qualifications. Please consult with the department.
For International Country and Region specific qualifications please see: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/regional-pages/
Please check the Requirements and Admissions section of the course database for details and exact requirements.
Guidance for Home Applicants
You can apply to this course by clicking the link “Apply” at the top right of the page above Course Summary. This will redirect you to Durham University Post Graduate information page where you will be able to apply via the Post Graduate Applicant Portal.
Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by visiting the link below under English Language requirements. You should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. For more information on pre-sessional courses please visit: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/pre-sessional-english-language-required/https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|
| EU & International | TBC | |
| England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands & Republic of Ireland | £10050* |
* This is a provisional fee and subject to change.
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
The tuition fees shown for home students remain subject to parliamentary approval. They are for one complete academic year of full-time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Durham University will charge home rate tuition up to the maximum allowed by the UK Government. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for international and EU students are for one complete academic year of full-time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees are subject to an annual inflationary increase. Tuition fees will rise annually by up to the higher of 6% or the latest annual percentage increase in the Consumer Prices Index.
As a student you may also get involved in optional activities which incur additional costs. To find out more visit https://www.dur.ac.uk/colleges-and-student-experience/additional-charges/.
Durham University offers a range of scholarship opportunities to academically well-qualified and highly motivated students. For further details, including deadlines for application, please visit: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/scholarships/
Phone:0191 334 1000
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE
At Durham University