Master of Archaeological Practice (MArchP)

Take a lead role in caring for heritage places

The Master of Archaeological Practice (MArchP) is an applied, professional qualification – linking theory with practice – 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 New Zealand'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, New Zealand 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 New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. It addresses the following areas:

• The management of New Zealand and Pacific cultural heritage places
• Working with Māori 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 New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

We are committed to working with communities, assisting with Māori research issues and informing heritage management as it relates to Māori 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 New Zealand 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 Māori and Pacific students to develop a career in which they can take a lead role in the care of their own heritage places.