Master of Archaeological and Evolutionary Science (Advanced)

COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Archaeological Science is a 96-unit postgraduate degree offered by the Australian National University that provides advanced training in archaeological and biological anthropology methods, combining scientific analysis, fieldwork, and research-based learning. The program requires a minimum of 24 units at the 8000-level and is structured around compulsory, research-intensive, foundational, methodological, and thesis components. Students complete a 6-unit compulsory course in quantitative skills for archaeological and evolutionary science, alongside 18 units of research-intensive study in areas such as archaeology and climate change, ancient biomolecules, and theoretical biological anthropology. Foundational courses (24 units) provide broad disciplinary grounding in topics including Australian archaeology, ritual and religion, European and Southeast Asian archaeology, Indigenous engagement, and human skeletal analysis. Another 24 units are selected from methodological courses covering environmental archaeology, scientific dating, GIS and spatial analysis, human evolution, primatology, evolutionary biology, and field or research projects. A major feature of the program is the 24-unit thesis, which allows students to undertake independent, original research. Research training is embedded through quantitative methods and specialised courses in archaeology and anthropology, ensuring strong analytical and scientific competency. Students may specialise in Bioarchaeology and Forensic Anthropology, Environmental Archaeology and Climate Change, or Human Evolution, tailoring their studies to specific interests. Graduates develop advanced research, laboratory, fieldwork, and analytical skills suited for careers in archaeology, heritage management, forensic science, environmental research, museums, and doctoral study.