Taught course
Maritime Archaeology
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:2 degree in archaeology, anthropology, history or another relevant subject.
Months of entry
September
Course content
About this Course
This MSc program is offered by the Centre for Maritime Archaeology (CMA), a world-leading hub recognized internationally for excellence in maritime heritage research and education. We're ranked 7th for archaeology and 3rd for research quality in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026). The course focuses on providing hands-on training and academic knowledge to investigate the rich history and material culture of maritime societies, including:
• Investigation of shipwrecks, harbors, and submerged landscapes.
• Exploration of global themes such as seafaring and migration.
• The impact of climate and environmental change on coastal societies through time.
Key Features and Distinctiveness
• World-Leading Centre: You study at the CMA, which offers access to specialist labs and facilities, including the university’s unique underwater and geospatial survey equipment.
• Practical Hands-on Training: The curriculum provides essential practical skills in maritime survey, GIS, and digital documentation techniques crucial for real-world projects and excavations.
• Research Focus: You will develop a research-led dissertation grounded in the Centre's active international partnerships and thematic research on maritime pasts and futures.
• Accreditation: Upon request, students can be issued with the BAJR Skills Passport, which is endorsed by the Chartered Institute for Archaeology (CIfA).
• Interdisciplinary Linkages: The CMA is part of a wider research environment with links to groups like the Centre for the Archaeology of Human Origins (CAHO) and the Digital Humanities (DH) group.
Career Prospects
The specialized skills in maritime archaeology, survey, and digital documentation prepare graduates for technical and research-focused careers globally in:
• Professional Archaeology (land and maritime).
• Cultural Heritage Management and Consultancy.
• Museums, Archives, and Heritage organizations.
• Government and Policy roles related to environmental and maritime heritage protection.
• Further Academic Research (PhD study).
Further Information
• Research Environment: The CMA is one of five key research groups within the Archaeology department, underscoring the strong research focus of the degree.
Information for international students
If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate your English ability by meeting our Band C requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components. For information on other accepted English language tests, please see our website.
Fees and funding
A variety of scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations. Please check the website for more information - https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/funding/postgraduate.page
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MSc
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Faculty of Arts and Humanities
- enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44(0)23 8059 5000