Archaeology

Overview

Supervision, research training and research environment: The PhD postgraduate Archaeology programme at The University of Manchester is based on supervised independent research. The student-supervisor relationship thus sits at the heart of this programme. 

The breadth of supervision that we can offer is detailed on our website and in the Archaeology Postgraduate Brochure. Each student has a main supervisor, a co-supervisor and an additional panel member who acts as an independent reviewer. The Archaeology Postgraduate Officer provides more generic academic advice and support.

In addition to regular personal supervision our graduate research students each have a research panel which meets a minimum of two times per year (on more occasions if necessary). 

The research panel increases the breadth of expertise available to the student and widens the informational and networking opportunities accessible to them. In addition the panel reviews the development of the student's research proposal, provides feedback on draft chapters and conference papers, discusses research progress, and provides guidance on the formulation of realistic objectives. 

During the course of their programme, research postgraduates need to develop both broad generic research skills and specialised skills relevant to their specific discipline and field study.

Some training in archaeological approaches and techniques is provided through the AHRC Northwest Doctoral Consortium. Additional bespoke training specific to the needs of individual projects is provided by Phd supervisory teams with the support of the Archaeology Research Technician. 

Finally, there is increasing collaboration across the University in the area of archaeological science and support in the form of training and equipment is available to PhD students, to be negotiated on an individual basis through the supervisory team.

Career opportunities

During the course of the doctoral programme students undertake a range of training and career development activities. The supervisory team supports students to review and develop both their generic and disciplinary skills. 

Our students also benefit from a wide range of opportunities to build up their CVs, for instance through participation in staff fieldwork projects, contributing to public engagement, collaboration with Manchester Museum, and participation in University's widening participation activities, such as working with schools. 

We have an excellent track record in terms of graduate employment and many of our former doctoral students have successful and exciting careers working in universities and museums, as well as positions in local and national governments. Some have even set up their own companies!