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University College Dublin

Archaeology

Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 60)

UCD School of Archaeology is the foremost archaeological research institution in Ireland and our teaching programme focuses on archaeology in Ireland and overseas. Our aim is to equip graduates to contribute to archaeology across the globe, with key concepts developed from understanding the internationally acclaimed Irish archaeological record. In the MA programme, this will include fieldtrips to iconic Irish sites and landscapes. Perspectives and practices from archaeological landscapes across the globe will be developed through the programme, and specialisation in different geographical areas strongly encouraged. Students will execute a variety of approaches to archaeological practice including desktop, experimental work in the UCD Centre for Experimental Archaeology and Ancient Technologies, field and lab-based techniques.

The Graduate Diploma (G Dip) Archaeology in UCD is a Level 9, 60 credit programmewhich will provide students with a high level of competency in conducting archaeological research in a variety of contexts, from the academic through to the professional. Students will develop critical perspectives on different forms of archaeological practice including the archaeological sciences, theoretical perspectives on the past and the views of heritage stakeholders. Being located in Dublin places us in close proximity to key cultural and archaeological institutions including the National Museum of Ireland, National Monuments Service and the Discovery Programme.

Who should apply?
Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. No

Part Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. No

The GDip is structured around dedicated Level 4 modules with a core and option framework. A small number of Level 3 (Advanced Undergraduate) modules may be taken as part of the GDip.

Core modules include training on researching archaeology in an Irish context and field and laboratory skills. Optional Level 4 modules include GIS and geospatial analysis, heritage management, archaeological landscapes and high-level disussion-led modules on prehistoric archaeology and historic archaeology. Students can also take up to 10 credits from the School's existing Level 3 modules.

A variety of assessment strategies are utilised, including classroom and field presentations, book reviews, review articles and essays.

Students with an average grade of B or above at GDip can elect to upgrade to the full MA Archaeology programme in consultation with School staff.

Entry requirements

This programme is intended for applicants with a background in Archaeology, Anthropology, History, Geography, Environmental Studies or other cognate disciplines. A lower second class honours degree (2:2), or the international equivalent, is required.

Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.

Duration

Z210: 1 year full-time or Z211: 2 years part-time.

Number of credits

Careers or further progression

G Dip students will gain considerable transferable skills and develop high employability: this will include the completion of field/lab work; independent research leading to the production of essay, project, report and portfolio writing; experience in making presentations orally and via posters; group work; and experience of working in the field.

Further enquiries

The following entry routes are available:

Grad Dip Archaeology FT (Z210) Duration 1 Years
Attendance Full Time
Deadline Rolling *

Grad Dip Archaeology PT (Z211)
Duration 2 Years
Attendance Part Time
Deadline Rolling *

* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

Subjects taught

Stage 1 - Core
How to Research Archaeology ARCH40760

Archaeological Field & Laboratory Techniques ARCH40770

Stage 1 - Options

Combat Archaeology ARCH30170
Human Osteology ARCH30340
Archaeology of Food ARCH30360
Experiment Archaeology & Ancient Technologies ARCH30500
Heritage Management ARCH30510
Archaeology and the Public: Past Meets Present ARCH30520
Early Medieval Europe: Social identity and Belonging AD 400-1100
ARCH30530
Wetland Archaeology ARCH30540
Archaeology of Minoan Crete ARCH30550
Adoption of Agriculture ARCH30560
Feudal castles and Gothic cathedrals: building medieval Europe, AD1000-1500 ARCH30600
New perspectives on the Historical Archaeology of Ireland
ARCH40720

Research Prehistoric Archaeol. ARCH40730
Irish Archaeolog. Landscapes ARCH40780
Irish landscapes; future views ARCH40790
Investigating Materials & Objects ARCH40820
Communicating Heritage ARCH40830
Practical Experimental Archaeology ARCH40850
Introduction to GIS and Spatial Methods in Archaeology ARCH40870
Advanced GIS in Archaeology and Heritage ARCH40880
World Heritage and Sustainable Development ARCH41020
Conflict Resolution & Conservation ARCH41030
Remote Sensing ARCH41070
Historic Urban Landscapes ARCH41080

Comment

The main objectives of the Graduate Diploma are to provide participants with a specialised knowledge and understanding of archaeology its advanced theories concepts and methods. Specialisation is available in prehistoric archaeology, historical archaeology, heritage and professional practice and landscape archaeology.

Assessment method

Teaching Learning and Assessment Approach:
The G Dip emphasizes small class sizes, seminar-based learning and original research be this in the field, the lab or the UCD Centre for Experimental Archaeology and Ancient Technologies. The programme strongly relies on continuous assessment, including varied projects and thesis writing. No Level 4 modules include an exam.

Beyond your archaeological training, we will provide you with advanced academic and practical training in a wide range of key transferable skills, including: how to make effective presentations; report and essay writing; working collaboratively in research groups.