Master in Bioarchaeology: Human Osteology

The University of Exeter blends a proud history with a modern, research-led education. Founded from the Exeter Schools of Art and Science and granted university status in 1955, Exeter now serves over 30,000 students and welcomes more than 6,700 international scholars. Its four-campus model offers a city-centre and a coastal Cornwall experience, giving students access to diverse environments and communities.

Academically, Exeter is known for strong multidisciplinary research and high graduate employability. With 148 programs spanning humanities, sciences, medicine and engineering, students benefit from well-equipped laboratories, specialist facilities and close faculty engagement. Research centres tackle global challenges across climate, health and data, creating opportunities for undergraduates and postgraduates to join impactful projects and industry collaborations.

Student life is vibrant and supportive, with extensive services for international students, active societies and career support that helps graduates enter competitive job markets. Accommodation and campus facilities score highly, and the city of Exeter offers an appealing balance of history, culture and outdoor access. For students seeking a top-ranked UK university with a research focus, strong student support and clear pathways to employment, Exeter provides a welcoming and ambitious environment.

This program is designed for students interested in the intersection of archaeology and the natural sciences, focusing on the analysis of human skeletal remains. The MSc in Bioarchaeology: Human Osteology is a one-year full-time course offered at the University of Exeter's Streatham Campus. Ideal candidates are those who thrive in hands-on learning environments and are eager to explore the complexities of human history through biological evidence.

Students will engage in modules such as Skeletal Anatomy, Advanced Human Osteology, and a Bioarchaeology Dissertation. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in identifying and analyzing human bones, supported by access to specialized laboratories. This program prepares students for a rapidly evolving field by equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles as Archaeological Assistants, Field Archaeologists, Museum Curators, and Experimental Archaeologists. The skills gained are transferable across sectors, making graduates competitive in both commercial archaeology and the broader heritage industry. The program also serves as a strong foundation for those considering further academic research at the PhD level.