PhD in Archaeology PhD/MPhil

Tuition is £25,350 full-time / £12,650 part-time per year (International).

Programme Overview

At the University of Liverpool, we’ve pioneered the study of the ancient world for over 130 years. A PhD/MPhil in Archaeology allows you to draw on world-class interdisciplinary research in diverse fields, from the origins of humanity and Old-World prehistory to the archaeology of the historical periods.

Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology is internationally reputed for its world-class research, offering the ideal environment to become a recognised specialist in the field. In 1904, we established the Institute of Archaeology, the first centre for the academic study of the methods and practice of archaeology, Egyptology and classical archaeology in the UK.

Fieldwork will form an important part of your research. We have several field projects based in the UK and abroad, including Bulgaria, Egypt, Greece, and Italy. Training is available in a wide range of ancient languages, alongside modern languages through our Open Languages programme. We offer dedicated budgets for supporting research and training activities, ensuring that you will receive tailored support for applications to external competitive funding schemes.

The University of Liverpool, founded in 1882 and located in the vibrant city of Liverpool, is a research-intensive institution with a global student body of around 32,000, including approximately 17,700 international students. The university offers a wide range of programs—over 200—across sciences, engineering, humanities, health and business, combining rigorous academics with practical industry links. Its historic campus and city connections provide a lively cultural setting and strong transport links across the UK and beyond.

Research and employability are central to the Liverpool experience, with interdisciplinary projects, industry partnerships and extensive placement opportunities embedded in many degrees. Students benefit from modern facilities, dedicated career services and a supportive academic community that helps translate theory into professional practice. The university's global networks also create exchange and collaboration pathways for study abroad and joint research.

International students receive comprehensive support from pre-arrival guidance to on-campus services, including English language support, visa advice and student societies that foster social integration. Liverpool’s affordable living costs relative to other UK cities, combined with its cultural life and sporting traditions, make it attractive to students seeking a balanced academic and social experience. The University of Liverpool is well-suited to ambitious students aiming for impactful research, strong career outcomes and a cosmopolitan student life.