Archaeological Geophysics

Applications welcome for 2012

Full-Time And Part-Time

About the course

This programme is aimed at graduates in archaeology and environmental sciences who wish to specialise in geophysical prospection, and to graduates with geophysics degrees who wish to move into shallow archaeological/environmental prospection. The programme will provide you with an understanding of the scientific principles behind the techniques used in shallow prospection and a comprehensive knowledge of the practical use of a variety of techniques commonly used in archaeological/shallow geophysics. Core modules cover theoretical and practical applications of shallow geophysical techniques including gradiometry, magnetic susceptibility, area resistance survey, electrical imaging and tomography, and ground penetrating radar. Optional modules allow you to expand your knowledge in different areas. If your background is in archaeology you will be encouraged to widen your skill base with optional modules in environmental site investigation and GIS. Geophysics graduates are encouraged to take optional modules in archaeology to gain an understanding of the formation of archaeological sites.

Features

Solid foundation in the theoretical aspects of archaeological geophysics.

Hands-on experience of geophysical survey.

Access to a wide variety of state of the art equipment.

Study techniques and application in a diverse archaeological landscape.

Course Structure: Link to details.

Course Aims

The programme aims to provide students with:

• A clear understanding of the role of geophysics in archaeological and environmental site investigation and an appreciation of the appropriate use of such techniques within the wider research and commercial arenas.
• The ability to commission an appropriate geophysical survey.
• Knowledge of the scientific principles behind geophysical techniques commonly used in shallow prospection.
• Practical skill in the operation of a variety of state-of-the-art geophysical equipment.
• The ability to process and interpret data to a professional standard, produce reports and critically assess data.
• Appraise critically the value of different archaeological techniques in a range of circumstances including the ability to recognise and appraise unconventional solutions to archaeological challenges.
• Appraise critically the value of different techniques in a range of situations including the ability to recognise and appraise unconventional solutions to environmental challenges.
• Students completing the Masters degree will have competence in research methods, and the application of these in an integrative environment.
• Demonstrate an ability to design and manage projects with skill in decision making and strategic thinking.

Post Graduate Certificate students will be able to:

• Appraise critically the value of geophysical techniques in a range of circumstances.
• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the scientific principles behind a variety of geophysical techniques.
• Operate a variety of geophysical equipment and confidently undertake a geophysical survey, with understanding of the interpretation of geophysical data, and its limitations.
• Produce Geophysical Survey Reports to a professional standard.

In addition to the above, Post Graduate Diploma students will (depending of the optional modules they take) be able to:

• Demonstrate awareness and understanding of current theory, legislation and management issues relating to archaeological practice / environmental site investigation.
• Demonstrate an awareness of the roles of the various Agencies, Statutory and key other bodies involved in the practice of archaeology and environmental site investigation in the UK.
• Undertake archaeological and environmental work with confidence and integrity, drawing on a range of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, from a variety of disciplines.

In addition to the above, Master of Science students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an ability to carry out a significant piece of independent research on a relevant topic, including the development of appropriate practical and conceptual skills, the interpretation and critical analysis of the results, and the production of a research thesis.
• Demonstrate an ability to initiate projects.

Employment opportunities

This programme with its unique wealth of archaeology on Orkney will equip you for a career in Archaeological Geophysics, Environmental assessment, Site Investigation or Project Management, or prepare you for further research.

Entry requirements

Students wishing to undertake the programme are expected to have an Honours degree in archaeology, archaeological sciences, geophysics, environmental sciences, earth sciences or closely related disciplines.

Applications will also be considered from candidates who have other relevant qualifications and at least three years of relevant professional experience.

Candidates without formal qualifications who possess substantial experience in archaeology, environmental studies, or a related field, and/or who may be judged to have demonstrated exceptional abilities, may also be admitted to the postgraduate programme.

Applications

The application form is available online here: Archaeology Course Application Form.

For further information and initial enquiries please contact:

Orkney College

East Road

Kirkwall

Orkney

KW15 1LX

Tel. 01856 569200

Email