Artefact Studies MA

Students are introduced to the skills of finds specialists. They develop the ability to identify, describe, document, catalogue and analyse artefacts and artefact assemblages. Subjects covered include the description of ceramic, lithic and metal objects. In practical sessions, we cover drawing, photography and work with databases. Many sessions make use of the institute's extensive collections. The programme will also raise awareness of different approaches to artefact analysis and introduce recent discussions on the subject.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core module (30 credits), four optional modules (60 credits), an optional work placement and a research project (90 credits).

All students are required to take the following:

• Working with Artefacts and Assemblages
• Technology within Society

• Antiquities and the Law
• Archaeological Ceramic Analysis
• Archaeological Glass and Glazes
• Archaeometallurgy
• British and European Prehistory: Neolithic to Iron Age
• Comparative Archaeologies of the Americas I: First Peoples to Emerging Complexity
• Funerary Archaeology
• Geoarchaeology
• Intangible Dimensions of Museum Objects from Egypt
• Interpreting Pottery
• Laboratory and Instrumental Skills in Archaeological Science
• Making and Meaning in Ancient Greek Art
• Making and Meaning in Ancient Roman Art
• Nature, Culture and the Languages of Art: theories and methodologies of art interpretation
• Prehistoric Stone Artefact Analysis
• Social and Material Contexts in Art: comparative approaches to art explanation

Please note not all modules are available every year.

The 15,000–word dissertation can cover any artefact-based subject matter. It normally combines a professional standard finds report with an analysis and an academic overview.

The programme is delivered through formal lectures, seminars and practical sessions. It can include a placement at a relevant museum or archaeological unit where students gain experience in the practical study and the recording of an artefact assemblage. Assessment of the core course is by weekly pieces of short work, a portfolio and the dissertation. The Technology within Society module is assessed by a project proposal and an essay.

Students have the option to undertake a 20-day voluntary placement at a relevant museum or archaeological unit. The placement itself is not formally assessed other than through its contribution to the student's dissertation work.

Tier 4 students are permitted to undertake a work placement during their programme, however they must not exceed 20 hours per week (unless the placement is an intergral and assessed part of the programme). This applies whether that work placement takes place at UCL or at an external institution. If you choose to undertake a placement at an external institution, you will be required to report to the department on a weekly basis so that you can continue to comply with your visa.