Archaeology (Higher Archaeological Practice)

About this course

Prepare for a career in commercial archaeology with this vocational MSc Higher Archaeological Practice degree, ranked 7th for archaeology and 3rd for research quality in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026). Gain practical skills to plan and run archaeological projects from survey and excavation to analysis and reporting. Learn how to navigate the heritage industry, manage commercial projects, and develop professional expertise beyond routine fieldwork.

You'll combine specialist modules in archaeological project management with hands-on experience, including a 4-week professional placement with leading institutions like Historic England or Wessex Archaeology, and a 3-day field trip to Devon and Cornwall World Heritage Sites.

Your future career

You'll develop skills for rewarding careers as an archaeologist, heritage manager, field director, project manager, or consultant in commercial archaeology and the heritage sector. Graduates work with local and national government, museums, universities, and archaeological contractors.

Key features of this course

At Southampton you'll:

• learn processes and workflows of commercial archaeology and heritage industry management, professional report writing, and statutory systems for protecting cultural heritage

• develop project planning, management, and design skills through practical modules

• undertake a 4-week professional placement with heritage institutions for real-world experience

• gain practical fieldwork skills through hands-on training and a 3-day World Heritage Site field trip using GIS and remote sensing

• conduct original research for your 20,000-word dissertation, with publication potential

• access specialist facilities and teaching staff to develop practical capabilities

Further information

This one-year full-time master's combines vocational training with advanced research skills through core specialist modules in professional practice and placement experience. You can personalise your studies by selecting additional modules from archaeology or other departments, and can include up to 30 credits from final-year undergraduate modules. You can change to a different archaeology pathway within the first two weeks.