Archaeology MRes
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Our MRes in Archaeology offers an excellent opportunity to conduct original archaeological research into a chosen topic and become proficient in advanced research skills and project management. The course also provides ideal preparation for MPhil/PhD research and valuable training for a career in the archaeology and heritage sectors.
Our course provides a thorough grounding in the current archaeological theory and method, and will lead to the completion of a 28,000-word Research Dissertation.
We offer supervision in a broad range of archaeological and heritage subjects and topics for Britain and neighbouring regions drawing on the expertise of our well-known archaeology and heritage specialists. Focus your research on one of our fields of expertise, including: the history and theory of archaeology; Mesolithic archaeology; Iron Age and Roman Britain; Anglo-Saxon and Viking Age archaeology; geoarchaeology; mortuary archaeology; archaeologies of memory, materiality and material culture; art and aesthetics; stone sculpture; medieval buildings; museology/collections; heritage studies; museum studies; and public archaeology.
Students also have the option to study our MRes Archaeology course via distance learning.
World-leading research
Crafting your own cutting-edge research
Open to a range of first-degree graduates and distance learning option available
What You'll Study
MODULES
- Advanced Research Skills (20 Credits) Core: This module examines the skills and methodologies required for advanced archaeological, historical and heritage research. You will gain the opportunity to explore a range of skills and to build on your existing knowledge and expertise, including how to identify relevant resources, how to appraise and critique research publications, and how to construct and analyse historical and archaeological evidence. This module therefore lays the groundwork for larger research projects such as the dissertation. Through this module, you are afforded the opportunity to engage with the practicalities of undertaking research in the archive and in the field, considering varying approaches to active and proactive research. You will learn how to work with historical and archaeological practitioners, organisations and digital resources, honing your craft with cutting edge research methods and practice.
- Critical Perspectives on the Past (20 Credits) Core: Why and how does the past matter? Why and how do academic researchers tackle the human journey and its significance in today's world? Spanning the disciplines of history, heritage studies and archaeology, this module provides an advanced-level introduction and engagement with current theoretical and applied debates on the meaning of the human past and its significance in today's world.
- Research Dissertation in Archaeology (140 Credits) Core: You will research and write a 28,000-word dissertation. The topic and title is negotiated between you and your supervising tutor; tutor approval of the topic and title is an essential requirement. The Research Dissertation is based upon guided but largely independent research and upon substantial use of a range of primary source materials.
The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.
How we teach at the University of Chester
The principal methods of delivery for taught modules will be a mixture of lectures, seminars, individual tutorials and field visits to archaeological and heritage sites. The Research Dissertation is taught through regular supervisory meetings.
The taught modules are delivered online for those students on the distance learning route.
Assessment for the core modules is via written work and other methods equivalent to approximately 4,000 words per 20-credit module. The Research Dissertation will be approximately 28,000 words in length.
Each 20-credit module runs for 2.5 hours per week across an eight-week period. The Programme Leader will serve as your Personal Tutor.
Acquisition of core knowledge, themes and debates is achieved through lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and private study, supplemented where appropriate by field visits. The balance of these delivery methods will be tailored appropriately for each module. The focus will be on small-group teaching via seminars, supported by individual tutorials in order to engage students with current debates, methods and discoveries. Workshops and field visits will engage students with primary archaeological data as appropriate.
The modules will be delivered either through face-to-face teaching, for example in small group sessions and tutorials, or by distance learning supported by a range of materials available through the University's eLearning facilities. Distance learning is also supported by online tutorials and digital support (e.g. via email, video calls and video meetings). The Dissertation will be taught by one-to-one tutorial supervision either in face-to-face sessions or by distance learning methods as appropriate. Meanwhile, all delivery methods and private study will be enhanced via the use of VLE resources that will be fully utilised in accordance with proven customary practice for University of Chester undergraduate degrees in archaeology.
Your Future Career
Careers service
The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.
Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.
We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.
Entry Requirements
2:1 honours degree
A 2:1 honours degree or equivalent qualification in archaeology or any relevant discipline is required. Applicants will be required to produce up to 300 words describing their research topic, and attend an interview. Consideration will be given to those who hold a lower classification who can demonstrate they are capable of performing at the level required to complete the course successfully.
To complete your application you will need to submit a project proposal. You can find more information about the required format and best practices on our Applying for MPhil/Phd or MRes degrees page.
2:1 honours degree
A 2:1 honours degree or equivalent qualification in archaeology or any relevant discipline is required. Applicants will be required to produce up to 300 words describing their research topic, and attend an interview. Consideration will be given to those who hold a lower classification who can demonstrate they are capable of performing at the level required to complete the course successfully.
See below for your country specific requirements. Please note, some programmes have special entry requirements and if applicable, these are listed below.
English Language Requirements
For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.
Fees and Funding
£5,006per year full time (2025/26)
The tuition fees for home students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes in the academic year 2025/26 are £5,006 per year full time.
£15,084per year full time (2025/26)
The tuition fees for international students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes (Classroom) in the academic year 2025/26 are £15,084 per year.
The tuition fees for international students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes (Laboratory) in the academic year 2025/26 are £19,133 per year.
For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.
Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.
Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.
The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships.
Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees and Finance section of our website.
Dr Morn Capper
Senior Lecturer
Dr Caroline Pudney
Senior Lecturer