Overview

The scientific investigation of archaeological skeletal remains, also known as Bioarchaeology or Biological Anthropology, gives unique insights into human history. Demographic shifts, environmental changes, living conditions, migrations, the spread of diseases and the impact of violence and conflict all leave traces on the skeleton.

The MSc in Human Osteoarchaeology at The University of Edinburgh provides students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to understand these important skeletal biographies and interpret them in their cultural context (biocultural approach), at the individual and the population level, combining theoretical learning with hands-on practice.

The programme draws on a variety of techniques, ranging from visual examination of the whole skeleton to the biomolecular analysis of small bone samples. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience with the School's extensive Scottish skeletal collection. There is also the opportunity to participate in a mock training excavation situated in the scenic veterinary school at the foot of the Pentland Hills.

It is an exciting interdisciplinary field that draws on a variety of techniques, ranging from visual examination of the whole skeleton to the biomolecular analysis of small bone samples.

Career opportunities

The programme provides a foundation for further study or your career. Following successful completion of the programme, a large proportion of students continue their studies to PhD level and beyond, and the programme provides the necessary osteoarchaeological knowledge for PhD study involving human skeletal remains. Our graduates have been very successful in pursuing both, commercial and academic/research careers, and have found employment in commercial archaeological units, consultancy and laboratory work, as well as government agencies and institutions, in the UK and abroad.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Human Musculo-Skeletal Anatomy

Analytical Methods in Human Osteoarchaeology

Quantitative Methods and Reasoning in Archaeology

Skeletal Pathology

Bioarchaeological Analysis and Interpretation

Research Sources and Strategies in Bioarchaeology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-14 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-06 00:00:00

More details

Round Application deadline

9 January
6 April

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Archaeology Anthropology View 80 other Masters in Anthropology in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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Other requirements

General requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, a minimum US 3.25 GPA or international equivalent, in a relevant subject such as Archaeology, Anthropology, Anatomy, Medical Sciences and related fields. No previous knowledge of human osteology is required. Depending on the number of eligible applicants, we may need to limit the number of students admitted, based on academic merit.

They will also consider relevant experience, or professional or other qualifications.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33200 GBP / year

≈ 33200 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

16000 GBP / year

≈ 16000 GBP / year

Additional Details

Living costs

Edinburgh

United Kingdom

725 - 1167 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Human Osteoarchaeology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Career opportunities

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Edinburgh

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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