BSc Acoustics and Music Technology
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MSc Human Osteoarchaeology
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology at the University of Edinburgh is designed for those passionate about the study of human remains in archaeological contexts. Students are introduced to advanced techniques in osteological analysis, bioarchaeology, and forensic anthropology, while also exploring the ethical implications of working with human remains. The program equips students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to investigate human remains from past societies, providing them with essential skills for careers in archaeological research, museums, forensics, and conservation. Students will also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, working with real skeletal collections from a variety of archaeological sites.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology is comprehensive, blending core modules with specialized topics in osteoarchaeology. Students begin with foundational courses that cover human skeletal biology, forensic anthropology, and osteological techniques. As the program progresses, students explore more advanced subjects such as palaeopathology (the study of ancient diseases), mortuary archaeology, and the analysis of trauma and bone lesions. The program also covers the methodologies used to analyze diet, migration patterns, and age and sex determination from skeletal remains. Practical skills are developed through laboratory work, including the handling and analysis of human skeletal remains. Students also undertake a research project, allowing them to apply their learning to specific osteoarchaeological questions.
Research Focus: The University of Edinburgh is a leader in archaeological research, and the MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology benefits from the university's strong research focus on human evolution, past populations, and the interpretation of skeletal remains. Faculty members are actively involved in research on ancient health, diseases, and the development of bioarchaeological techniques. The program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of osteoarchaeology, drawing on research from fields like genetics, archaeology, and anthropology. Students have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research projects, collaborating with experts in the field and contributing to significant discoveries in bioarchaeology. The program also supports research in ethical issues surrounding the treatment of human remains and their use in archaeological studies.
Industry Engagement: The MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology offers strong industry engagement, providing students with opportunities to collaborate with museums, heritage organizations, and archaeological consultancy firms. The University of Edinburgh has established connections with various archaeological organizations and research institutions, facilitating internships and placement opportunities for students. These collaborations allow students to gain real-world experience in the field, helping them build a professional network and enhancing their employability in archaeological research, museums, and heritage sectors. The university’s strong ties to the archaeological community also enable students to attend conferences, seminars, and workshops, keeping them informed about the latest developments in osteoarchaeology and bioarchaeology.
Global Perspective: The University of Edinburgh attracts a diverse student body from all around the world, fostering an international learning environment that enriches the MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology. Students have the chance to study global archaeological trends and work on international research projects, including excavations and analyses of skeletal remains from various parts of the world. The program’s global perspective is further reinforced by the university’s strong reputation in archaeological research and its collaborations with international institutions. Students are exposed to different archaeological methodologies and research traditions, preparing them to work in a global context. The program also addresses ethical issues related to the treatment of human remains from diverse cultural backgrounds, providing students with a broader understanding of the complexities involved in osteoarchaeological research.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 28800
Postgraduate entry requirements:
-
Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.
-
English Language Proficiency:
-
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
-
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
-
PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
-
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement.
Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.
School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.
External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.
Graduates of the MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology program at the University of Edinburgh possess specialized knowledge and practical skills in analyzing and interpreting human skeletal remains in archaeological contexts. They are well-equipped for a variety of career opportunities in academia, cultural heritage management, forensic science, museum curation, and archaeological consultancy. With their expertise in biological anthropology, osteological analysis, and cultural interpretation, graduates play a vital role in advancing knowledge of past populations and contributing to archaeological research, heritage preservation, and public engagement initiatives.
Osteoarchaeologist/Archaeologist: Graduates may work as osteoarchaeologists or archaeologists in academic institutions, research organizations, or archaeological consultancy firms. They analyze human skeletal remains from archaeological sites, conduct osteological assessments, and contribute to research projects focused on understanding past populations' lifeways, health, and burial practices.
Forensic Anthropologist: Graduates with training in forensic anthropology may pursue careers in forensic science, assisting in the identification of human remains in medicolegal contexts. They may work for government agencies, law enforcement agencies, or forensic laboratories, providing expertise in human identification, trauma analysis, and taphonomic processes.
Cultural Heritage Manager/Curator: Graduates may work in cultural heritage management or museum curation, preserving and interpreting archaeological collections for public display and research purposes. They may work for museums, heritage organizations, or government agencies, curating exhibitions, developing educational programs, and engaging with diverse audiences to promote understanding of past cultures and traditions.
Heritage Consultant/Archaeological Consultant: Graduates may work as heritage consultants or archaeological consultants, providing expertise and advice on archaeological heritage management, planning, and conservation projects. They may work for consulting firms, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, conducting impact assessments, advising on heritage legislation, and developing management plans for archaeological sites.
Researcher/Academic: Graduates may pursue careers in academia as researchers, lecturers, or postdoctoral fellows in universities or research institutions. They conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and supervise graduate students, contributing to advancements in osteoarchaeology, bioarchaeology, and related fields through interdisciplinary research projects.
Educator/Trainer: Graduates may work as educators or trainers, developing and delivering training programs, workshops, or educational outreach activities for schools, community groups, or museum visitors. They may specialize in osteology, archaeology, or forensic anthropology, providing hands-on learning experiences and promoting interest in the study of human skeletal remains and archaeological science.
