Master in Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology

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 natural sciences, focusing on the study of animal remains. The MSc in Bioarchaeology: Zooarchaeology is a one-year full-time course offered at the Streatham Campus. It is ideal for students who are curious about past human-animal interactions and seek to understand the cultural and economic implications of these relationships.

Students will engage with modules that cover advanced zooarchaeology, research skills, and the archaeology of humans and animals. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work and field studies, allowing students to develop critical analytical skills. The program culminates in a dissertation, where students can explore a topic of their choice, enhancing their research capabilities and preparing them for future academic pursuits.

Graduates of this program can pursue various career paths, including roles as archaeological assistants, field archaeologists, museum curators, and experimental archaeologists. The skills acquired are transferable across sectors, making graduates competitive in both commercial archaeology and the broader heritage industry. Many alumni also choose to continue their studies at the PhD level, furthering their expertise in bioarchaeology and related fields.