Master in Archaeological Sciences
Summary
Join a research-driven environment and learn from experts in Nordic, European and Global archaeology. This English-taught program examines human–environmental interactions through different scientific approaches and theoretical perspectives. The program offers advanced teaching in archaeological science with options to focus on, e.g., social, environmental and bioarchaeology, sustainability or 3D visualization and will prepare you for PhD studies and a career in academia or the cultural heritage management sector.
About
The program Master in Archaeological Sciences offers a mix of teaching methods.
In the first semester, lectures are combined with seminars, lab work, workshops, study visits, and field training — giving you hands-on experience with archaeological materials and methods. Assessment includes both written and oral exams that test your ability to link theory to practice.
In the second semester, you will develop your scientific writing skills and complete your Master’s thesis, applying what you’ve learned to your own research project.
You will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as:
- Stone Age or Bronze Age environments in Europe
- Archaeology as a sustainability science
- Environmental archaeology
- Rock art documentation and analysis.
In addition to a solid grounding in prehistoric archaeology, you may focus on archaeological approaches to examine current global challenges including landscape use, sustainable development, urban planning and climate change.
The archaeology subject at the Department of Historical Studies has one of the most dynamic research environments in the Nordic countries, with a geographical focus on Europe, Latin America and Africa, and a chronological span from the Stone Age to the present. The subject of archaeology is in the top hundred list in the 'QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025'.
You find more information about rankings and recognitions of University of Gothenburg at our website: Ranking and recognitions | University of Gothenburg
Programme structure and content
First term
The Master in Archaeological Sciences begins with two introductory courses (7.5 ECTS each):
- Introduction to Archaeological Sciences
- Archaeological Material and Scientific Methods
These are followed by one elective course (15 ECTS). Options may include:
- Stone Age Societies in Europe and their Environments
- Archaeology as Sustainability Science
- Environmental Archaeology and its Methods
- 3D Data and Visualization in Archaeology and Heritage Studies
The selection of elective courses will vary. You will have at least three options to choose from.
Second term
Students take two compulsory courses within the main field of study (15 ECTS each):
- Archaeological Theory and Method in Academic Writing
- Archaeological thesis
Who should apply?
This program is ideal for students who:
- Want hands-on experience — from laboratory work and digital documentation to field studies and archaeological analysis.
- Seek to develop strong research and writing skills in an international, English-speaking academic environment.
- Aim for a career or further research in archaeology, heritage management, environmental studies, or related fields.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Entry to the program requires a Bachelor of Arts degree (180 ECTS) in Archaeology or an equivalent qualification, or alternatively a Bachelor of Arts degree in Heritage Studies including at least undergraduate and master courses (60 ECTS) in Archaeology. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English equivalent to English 6 from the Swedish upper secondary school or an equivalent level on an internationally recognized test. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, IELTS Online, IELTS UKVI (Academic), IELTS One Skill Retake (Academic), TOEFL iBT, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and TOEFL iBT Paper Edition.
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
After graduation
The program leads to a one-year Master’s degree in Archaeology (60 ECTS). During the program, you can apply for elective courses that lead to a two-year master’s degree.
With its focus on archaeological science, the program provides a qualification that is highly valued in both academia and contract archaeology, as well as in related sectors such as: cultural heritage management and public administration, environmental and sustainability work, industry and tourism, and media and education.
The Swedish labour market for archaeologists is characterized by contract archaeology and research projects.
Facilities
You find more information about our facilities at the Gothenburg university website for Faculty of Humanities: Our facilities - Faculty of Humanities, University of Gothenburg
