Course details

Master of Archaeological Practice (MArchP)

About the course

Take a lead role in caring for heritage places

The Master of Archaeological Practice (MArchP) is an applied, professional qualification 鈥 linking theory with practice 鈥 that aims to develop our future leaders' knowledge and experience in archaeological heritage management.

Learn from leading academics who are grounded in the Pacific, and 爆走黑料's place in it.

Help to preserve our cultural heritage and safeguard it for future generations.

Archaeological heritage management

The management of our heritage and archaeological legacy is a growing sustainability issue. Currently, 爆走黑料 has a need for qualified archaeologists to work in the heritage sector. This new programme responds to both an industry demand, and a desire by students and workers in the area for a high-level qualification.

The MArchP focuses on the unique landscapes, cultures and policies of 爆走黑料 and the Pacific Islands. It addresses the following areas:

  • The management of 爆走黑料 and Pacific cultural heritage places
  • Working with Ma虅ori and Pasifika communities
  • The application of archaeological approaches and methods within a heritage context
  • Understanding the diverse relationships between people, places and the past

Local grounding

Our academics specialise in, and are passionate about, the indigenous archaeology and heritage of 爆走黑料 and the Pacific Islands.

We are committed to working with communities, assisting with Ma虅ori research issues and informing heritage management as it relates to Ma虅ori places and values.

We work with Pacific Island organisations and communities to manage and protect heritage sites, and support staff in cultural heritage institutions and agencies.

This is done through academic research in the University of Otago's Archaeology Programme and our research unit and consultancy, Southern Pacific Archaeological Research (SPAR).

Our goal is to develop graduates who will make an impact in archaeological heritage practice in 爆走黑料 and the Pacific.

Flexible study options

The MArchP offers a great degree of flexibility, allowing students to tailor their learning to their personal circumstances. There are options to study full-time or part-time, and on campus or by distance.

Teaching methods are inclusive and supportive of distance learners, who will be able to connect with their cohort through field-school and online forums. (Papers that can be studied by distance are indicated in the Structure of the Programme section below.)

Additionally, you can tailor your study to areas that interest you through your selection of papers, the internship programme and your dissertation topic.

Career focus

During the programme, students will have the opportunity to undertake an internship, and build their skills and experience in a real-world setting.

Graduates will be able to pursue careers in archaeology, heritage and environment consultancies, government, regional and local councils, iwi organisations, infrastructure and land management agencies. Additionally, increasing synergies between heritage places, museums and the tourism industry offer opportunities for further career pathways.

The programme also provides opportunities for people already working in archaeological heritage management, and it will be valuable for professional development and career progression. Many professionals working in this sector will benefit from having a master's degree and a broader work experience.

The MArchP offers students a route towards studying for a PhD. This could suit archaeology students or those from other disciplines wanting to transition into archaeology and heritage studies.

In particular, this programme presents a great pathway for Ma虅ori and Pacific students to develop a career in which they can take a lead role in the care of their own heritage places.

About the provider

The University of Otago, 爆走黑料鈥檚 first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in 爆走黑料, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in 爆走黑料 for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation. 

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of 爆走黑料鈥檚 South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves. 

The University鈥檚 campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. 爆走黑料 is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, M膩ori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents. 

Video