Bailey – MSc Archaeological Science

School of History, Archaeology and Religion

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree at Cardiff University?

Having done my undergraduate degree at Cardiff, I already had a familiarity with the city and my department which meant I knew what I was getting from my degree. Cardiff is an excellent university for research opportunities, and being interested in pursuing academia, this really appealed to me when I was looking for postgraduate courses.

How was your experience as a postgraduate at Cardiff University, in terms of the programme?

My experience of my master’s was generally very good. The modules offered were both wide ranging and detailed enough to allowing varied and specialised course. The course content, although a clear step up from undergraduate level in terms of difficulty, focuses on developing students’ skills as professionals. I certainly feel like my knowledge of, and competence at, my subject has improved greatly.

How was your experience of living in Cardiff, in terms of the city, social life and accommodation, again specifically as a postgraduate student?

Cardiff is a great city, and very affordable! I really like how close everything is, I can get anywhere I nedd to go from my flat usually in less than 20 minutes. Cardiff has a pretty active night life which is nice, but as a postgrad I have really appreciated Cardiff’s pubs; every Thursday the archaeology department goes to the Pen and Wig for a much-needed pint.

What was different about your postgraduate experience at Cardiff University compared to your previous degree?

Apart from the obvious step up in terms of course content, my postgraduate degree has really enabled me to actively contribute to and participate in my department. Whether that be with more impactful research projects or by travelling to other countries for conferences.

How did you fund your postgraduate degree?

I managed to get accepted onto the Master’s Excellence Scholarship which took £3000 off my tuition fees. Besides that, I have been able to work through the uni jobshop to do part time ambassadorial and bar work.

How do you think that your postgraduate degree is helping prepare you for the future – job aspirations, career development, future study etc?

I’ve been able to present my dissertation research at two different conferences this year. I’ve met academics from all over the world and made a ton of contacts. I have also been able to contribute to ongoing research projects, both as a part of my course and through my personal research. This has given me a good amount of experience in laboratory work and in developing independent projects.