Laboratory Methods of Archaeology
UndergraduateMAQ-ARCX11022026
Course information for 2026 intake
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Enrol by
- 19 July 2026
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Start dates
- 27 July 2026
- Price from
- $2,245
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
Laboratory Methods of Archaeology
About this subject
On successful completion, a student will be able to
- Apply knowledge of the principles of archaeological techniques and methods in a laboratory-environment.
- Integrate knowledge of archaeology while participating in scientific practical experiences.
- Discuss strategies for study and analysis of archaeological objects with team members.
- Analyse archaeological features and materials (pottery, glass, metal, bone, and ivory objects) at an introductory level.
- Demonstrate critical thinking in the interpretation of the archaeological data.
- Synthesise and communicate acquired knowledge and understanding to produce critical analytical reports.
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials
This unit covers a range of laboratory principles and methods used in archaeology for the description, analysis and critical appraisal of artefacts, features and sites. Through theoretical instruction and practical demonstrations in on-campus laboratories, students learn how the different experts involved in an archaeological project carry out laboratory analyses and artefact studies on archaeological sediments, items of material culture, and plant, human and animal remains using scientific approaches (for example, X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry, Isotopic Analysis, Geomorphology and Sedimentology, Human Osteology and Palaeopathology, Zooarchaeology, Proteomics, etc).
- Report (35%)
- Research Essay (35%)
- Problem set (30%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
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- QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:
- 11
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:
- 9
Entry requirements
Others
NCCW (2020 and onwards)
ARCH1102 Laboratory Methods of Archaeology
AHIS3302 Laboratory Methods of Archaeology
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
UndergraduateMAQ-HIS-DEG
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