Palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic Archaeology MSc

Students gain training in research methods and a scientific grounding in the principles, content and practice of palaeoanthropology and palaeolithic archaeology, including: fossil and archaeological evidence of human evolution; temporal and spatial patterns and processes of evolutionary and environmental change; and the evolutionary background for understanding human adaptation and culture.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of one core module (30 credits) four optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (90 credits).

All students are required to take the following:

• Themes in Palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic Archaeology

Students will be encouraged to select options from the following list up to the value of 60 credits.

• Archaeology of Human Evolution in Africa
• Advanced Human Evolution
• Archaeology of Hunter-Gatherers from the Emergence of Modern Humans
• Evolution of Human Brain and Behaviour
• Geoarchaeology
• Prehistoric Stone Artefact Analysis
• Palaeoanthropology
• Primate Evolution
• Primate Socioecology
• Zooarchaeology in Practice

Please note not all options are available every year.

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words (90 credits).

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, discussions, seminars, laboratory practicals and student presentations. Assessment is through essays, practical examination and seminar presentations, (depending on the options chosen), and the dissertation.