Graduate Taught Programmes

A world-class destination for graduate study

Our cutting-edge provision covers a huge number of time periods, regions, topics, methods, and the full range of subjects encountered in archaeology, from lab-based scientific approaches to heritage studies. Currently ranked 3rd in the world for archaeology in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, the UCL Institute of Archaeology is a world-class destination for graduate study. 

Applications for entry in 2026-27 are open

Graduate Taught Modules

View our graduate modules at a glance. Not all modules will be available on all Programmes. Please see individual Graduate Taught Programme pages to see which core and optional modules are available for each Programme. Modules may also be subject to change.

Programme focus

Our Graduate scholarships/awards

Student voices

Caitlin Withnell, Palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic Archaeology, MSc, 2017-2018

What made you choose this particular degree and UCL?  

I chose the PAPA course because it is an entirely unique experience – there’s just about nowhere else can you study this focused specialty at the calibre of institution that is the Institute of Archaeology. The research being done at the IoA is at the forefront of the field, and to me it felt like an opportunity to take part in the exciting work being done, while learning from the best. 

I was even luckier to find during my MSc that the level of engagement from the programme teaching staff went above and beyond, and I felt that support every step of the way through my degree. 

Where are you now?

I am currently a PhD researcher at UCL, having returned to the Institute of Archaeology for my doctoral studies. The coursework and research I completed during my Masters has been a solid foundation for my current project, and the kindness I received then has only grown.

What advice would you have for current and/or prospective students?  

My advice would be to take advantage of all that London has to offer – whether through opportunities offered through the IoA (like when we got the chance to have a first-hand tour of the artefact stores under the Natural History Museum!) or through life in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. A one-year programme can go by really quickly, and there’s so much to take in during your time here!

Gwendoline Rouault, Computational Archaeology: GIS, Data Science and Complexity, MSc, 2021-22

What made you choose this particular degree and UCL?  

I chose Computational Archaeology because I was deeply interested in the application of scientific methods to archaeological and heritage problems. At UCL, I learnt a wide range of techniques from leading experts in the field, despite having little prior experience with GIS or data science. This degree gave me a unique opportunity to develop valuable technical skills and deepen my knowledge, which laid the foundation for my acceptance onto the Civil Service’s Data Science Graduate Programme.

Stefano Cecatiello, Archaeology and Heritage of Asia, MA

What did you choose to study at UCL? What inspired you to come here?
UCL’s Institute of Archaeology offered an unparalleled breadth of modules and opportunities. It is one of the few places in the UK where I could explore my specific interests, including a dedicated module on the Silk Roads, which has always been at the core of my academic focus. The chance to study under leading specialists and engage with such a diverse range of topics made UCL the perfect choice.

What have been the highlights of the Programme so far?
The highlights for me have been the freedom to shape my own research path, the richness of discussion with lecturers and peers, and the opportunity to work closely with experts in the field. UCL’s dynamic environment encouraged me to challenge my ideas and sharpen my methodologies, while also fostering invaluable academic connections.

What projects/fieldwork have you taken part in?
Through UCL, I was able to connect with specialists working in Central Asia, which led to a long-term collaboration with the University of Bologna’s project in Samarkand. This has been a transformative experience, allowing me to directly engage with material evidence, develop practical fieldwork skills, and work alongside some of the foremost scholars in my area of interest.

What skills do you think you will learn from your Programme that will be useful for your career?
The programme has equipped me with a strong theoretical foundation and the methodological tools to approach archaeological discourse critically. I’ve learned diverse analytical techniques for interpreting stratigraphy and material culture, as well as how to navigate the complexities of cultural heritage with sensitivity. Beyond technical skills, UCL has also taught me how to engage effectively with different stakeholders, making my research relevant and impactful beyond academia.

What do you hope to do when you have graduated from your Programme?
I hope to continue my academic journey by pursuing a PhD, with the long-term goal of becoming a lecturer and researcher. I aim to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on Central Asian archaeology and heritage, while also sharing that passion with future students.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering Archaeology at UCL?
Be ready to challenge yourself — intellectually and personally. The MA demands dedication and hard work, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. You’ll gain access to world-class teaching, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant academic community. Most importantly, UCL gives you the tools and opportunities to carve out your own path. If you’re passionate about archaeology, this is where your ideas can truly take shape.