Landscape Archaeology, GIS and Virtual Landscapes MA/Diploma

Summary

This programme focuses on current approaches to the archaeological investigation and interpretation of past and present landscapes, providing intensive training in the theory, practice and research frameworks of landscape archaeology. You can develop all-round as well as specialist capabilities in digital data collection, spatial analysis and dissemination technologies (e.g. in GIS and visualisation), and detailed knowledge of particular cultural landscapes and thematic areas of study (as diverse as submerged landscapes, ancient cityscapes and landscapes of conflict). This programme is available distance learning.

Key facts

Type of Course: Taught, distance learning

Duration: Full-time – 6 x 4-week modules completed in 12 months; Part-time – 6 x 4-week modules completed in 24 months; Modular – 6 x 4-week modules completed over 4 years

Start date: September 2012

Entry requirements

Learn more about entry requirements 

International students
We accept a range of qualifications from different countries – learn more about international entry requirements

Standard English language requirements apply

Contact details

Director of Postgraduate Programmes
Tel: +44 (0)121 414 5497
Email: iaa-pg@bham.ac.uk

How to apply

When clicking on the Apply Now button you will be directed to an application specifically designed for the programme you wish to apply for where you will create an account with the University application system and submit your application and supporting documents online. Further information regarding how to apply online can be found on the How to apply pages

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Fees and funding

Learn more about fees and funding.

Scholarships and studentships
 Scholarships to cover fees and/or maintenance costs are available. For further information please email the College of Arts and Law Graduate School artsandlawgraduateschool@contacts.bham.ac.uk. International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government.

For further information contact the School directly or email sfo@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

Programme overview

This programme provides you with a thorough grounding in landscape archaeology and an in-depth knowledge of GIS technology and its application to landscape studies. Teaching is embedded within Birmingham Archaeology, the specialist fieldwork and research services division of the Institute of Archaeology and Antiquity, providing access to ‘live project data’ and exposure to current research issues in field archaeology and resource assessment and management situations.

There is a dedicated computer laboratory, and the programme uses the resources of the University of Birmingham’s Visual and Spatial Technology Centre, one of the best-equipped archaeological computing facilities in the world, for both teaching and research.
This programme is ideal if you require a foundation for further research or a vocational qualification for professional development or specialisation.

Programme content

You will study four core modules:

  • Introduction to Geographical Information Science
  • Landscape archaeology
  • GIS and spatial analysis
  • Field Survey

You choose two optional modules from a range including:

  • Archaeological geophysics
  • Virtual landscapes
  • Holocene landscapes and archaeology
  • Materials, objects and things – the archaeology of artefacts
  • Human and animal bone

You will also complete a 12,000 word dissertation.

The programme includes practical training in areas such as:

  • Basic quantitative techniques
  • Visualisation and programming for archaeologists
  • Data collection techniques
  • Total station survey and global positioning systems
  • Databases and spreadsheets
  • CAD/CAM in field archaeology
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in landscape analysis
  • Presentation skills
  • Desktop publishing and the world wide web
  • Research methods and practical skills.

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