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Early Prehistory and Human Origins

Historical, Philosophical and Religious Studies

Taught

MSc

  • Overview
  • Application Timeline
  • Tuition
  • Requirements
  • Modules
  • About
  • Subject Area Information
  • Career
  • Similar courses

Overview

The course on the archaeology of human origins explores key questions about what defines humanity, early human societies, and the differences between Neanderthals and modern humans. It fosters lively debates and enhances understanding of prehistoric life from three million to 5,000 years ago. Participants engage with evolving evidence and theories in this dynamic field.

Application Timeline

  1. September 1, 2025
    Start date
  2. March 19, 2026
    Today

Tuition

Year 1
Student categories Study
Full-time Part-time
Republic of Ireland£11,200£11,200
EU£25,900£25,900
England£11,200£11,200
Northern Ireland£11,200£11,200
Scotland£11,200£11,200
Wales£11,200£11,200
Channel Islands£11,200£11,200
International£25,900£25,900

Requirements

Entry Requirements:
Language Requirements

Language requirements information is currently unavailable.

Modules

Modules is currently unavailable

Please check back later for updates.

About

Overview

The archaeology of human origins is a dynamic field that continually evolves with new evidence and theories, reshaping our understanding of humanity.

Key Questions Explored

  • What defines us as 'human'?
  • How did early human societies function?
  • What are the differences between Neanderthals and modern humans, and what led to their extinction?
  • What was the experience of life during the Ice Age?

Research Environment

The course encourages lively debates on these questions, allowing participants to enhance their knowledge and experience regarding early prehistoric societies spanning from three million years ago to 5,000 years ago.

Subject Area Information

The Stone Age is a fascinating and expansive discipline that delves into the earliest period of human history, characterized by the use of stone tools. Courses within this discipline cover a broad range of subjects, from archaeology and anthropology to geology and ancient technology.

Typical Course Structure
  • 1. Introduction to the Stone Age

  • 2. Paleolithic Era Studies

  • 3. Mesolithic Transition

  • 4. Neolithic Revolution

  • 5. Stone Age Technology and Tools

  • 6. Archaeological Methods and Techniques

Typical Skills Acquired
  • Comprehensive understanding of human prehistory
  • Ability to analyze and interpret archaeological data
  • Critical thinking
  • Research skills
  • Scientific analysis
  • Excavation techniques
  • Artifact preservation
  • Use of various dating methods

Career

Graduates with a specialization in Stone Age studies could pursue careers in various fields, including archaeology, anthropology, geology, and museum and heritage management.

Potential Professions
  • Archaeology

    Working as field archaeologists, museum curators, or cultural heritage managers.

  • Anthropology

    Conducting research or teaching at academic institutions.

  • Geology

    Specializing in paleoenvironmental studies or working with geological surveys.

  • Museum and Heritage Management

    Curating exhibits, managing collections, or working in heritage conservation.

Similar courses

Contact

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Heslington, York, YO10 5DD
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Contact

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Heslington, York, YO10 5DD
Get expert guidance

Enhance your academic journey with the help from our experts.

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