Archaeological Science (MSc)

Archaeological Science at Leiden University is an MSc specialisation that delves into the specifics of archaeological methods and techniques. The combination of hands-on field experience and laboratory work offers a challenging and rewarding research environment.

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Archaeology (MA/MSc)

Mike de Heij

Alumnus

'Every time I became more familiar with a subject, starting with Archaeology as a whole, I became more interested in specializing. Human Osteology and Funerary Archaeology caught my interest as it allows us to view our past lives, beyond the scope of the material. Working with human bones gives you a new sense of respect for the dead and, ironically, their way of life.'

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What does this master's programme entail?

Scientific methodology is an important approach in modern archaeology and it is at the heart of archaeological science. Hypotheses, data, theory, experiments, observations, as well as presentation and interpretation, are all key to our understanding of our past.

The programme gives you the freedom to choose your own focus based on your own interests. You may study archaeobotany and archaeozoology, or prefer to dive into human osteoarchaeology. You may rather explore material culture, or further develop your skills in computational archaeology. All of these choices can be combined with lectures on specific regions or time periods. After graduation you are thus an expert in the field of your choice, in relation to a specific area.

For your thesis you will receive supervision by one of more of our staff members. By enrolling in Archaeological Science you will be guaranteed a supervisor within this specialisation. Please note, however, that it may not be possible to work with the supervisor and on the topic of your choice.

See the programme page for more information.

Focus on a variety of palaeo-zoological and palaeo-botanical topics, ranging in age from the Palaeolithic to historical periods.
Gain detailed insight into the methods used to study human bones and teeth.
Explores how we analyse the cultural biographies of all sorts of material objects.
Dive into the computational methods and tools required to collate, analyse and manage digital data in archaeological research.
Your choice of specialisation can be supplemented with courses on specific regions or time periods.

Why Archaeological Science at Leiden University?

Benefit from our wide range of expertise. Match your prefered archaeological science methods with one of the regions we lecture on, from the Americas to the Near East.
Study in a faculty that ranks in the top 10 worldwide in academic reputation and research impact (April 2024 QS World University Ranking by subject).
Follow lectures given by our outstanding international faculty staff, whose members are involved in projects all over the world, with a strong emphasis on field archaeology.
Work with top researchers and benefit from the strong connection between our current research projects and our curriculum.
Gain a Master of Science degree in Archaeology and enter the job market with a strong basis in the archaeological sciences.

More reasons to study Archaeological Science at Leiden University.