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Director of Studies: Prof. Julian Richards
Purpose
The course aims to train the next generation of archaeological information scientists. It includes a broad foundation in archaeological computing applications with particular emphasis on Internet technologies, electronic publication, digital archiving, databases, GIS, CAD, and computer 3-D modelling.
Entry Requirements
Applicants will normally have a good first degree in archaeology or a related subject, or an equivalent foreign qualification. Other applicants may be considered in exceptional circumstances, for example those with considerable ICT experience.
All applicants will be expected to provide evidence of some basic familiarity with a range of ICT applications and an aptitude for computer-based skills.
The taught course consists of several components. There is a core course, taken in common with all Masters students, which extends over Terms 1 and 2: it lays foundations for research study in archaeology by examining the structure of British archaeology, approaches to the past, research issues and methods.
For the MSc, six three-week modules cover database design, internet resources, digital publication and preservation in the Autumn Term, and visualisation, CAD & data modelling, and geographical information systems in the Spring Term. Modules involve a balance of lectures, tutorials and practical classes, depending on the size of the student group. During these terms, students also have placements in archaeological computing with local institutions or projects, such as the CBA, ADS, and Internet Archaeology.
In the second six months (Summer Term and vacation) most of the time is spent preparing a major project of up to 15,000 words, under supervision, on any suitable topic within the field of computer applications in archaeology.
From October 1999 this course will be taught with a new modular structure.
Assessment
A degree is awarded on the basis of four weighted units and satisfactory attendance at, and completion of, the core course. The major project/dissertation constitutes half the marks and must reach the equivalent of a II.1 standard (mark of 60%; = GPA 3.00 USA). The two taught term9s modules constitute 20% each: Term 1 work being assessed by a database or electronic publication exercise; and Term 2 work by a GIS, CAD or visualisation exercise. The final 10% of assessment is made up in the Summer Term by a 30-minute lecture on an appropriate topic. The overall weighted average must reach the equivalent of a II.1 for a pass to be recommended.
Staff and Facilities
The Department of Archaeology is home to the Archaeology Data Service and the electronic journal Internet Archaeology. Several members of staff have significant ongoing research interests in computer applications, making this the largest centre of research into Archaeological Computing in Britain. Excellent computing facilities are available, including a dedicated postgraduate computer room; a well-equipped spatial computing laboratory with plotters, digitisers and scanners, and access to high-powered Unix workstations.Further particulars are available.