James Morris

As an undergraduate archaeologist, I developed a keen interest in animal and human bones and I wanted a Masters course that would help me develop that passion into a career. The MSc in Osteoarchaeology was ideal as it is extremely well balanced, with students gaining practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. It is taught by experienced academics with international reputations within their fields, who constantly encourage the students to fulfil their potential.

My Masters degree allowed me to pursue a career in osteoarchaeology. After undertaking the course, I worked for a number of commercial archaeology companies in the South of England undertaking work on both human and animal remains. I found that being skilled in both types of osteological material gave me a distinct advantage in a commercial environment, with my skills being used both during excavation and post-excavation phases of projects. Throughout this period, the course lecturers maintained contact and, when necessary, offered their advice. This shows how much time and effort they put into the course and its graduates.

Because of the excellent teaching and support I had received, I chose to return to Bournemouth University later in my career to undertake a PhD. During this time, the analytical and academic skills I had learnt during the Osteoarchaeology Masters proved invaluable. Having finished my doctoral studies I now work as a zoo archaeologist for Museum of London Archaeology, one of the largest and highest profile archaeology companies in the United Kingdom. My work involves the preparing of publication reports on many large scale important animal bone assemblages. On a daily basis I use the skills and knowledge I gained during my Masters degree at BU and I would not have progressed in my career without them. The MSc Osteoarchaeology at BU is the best of its kind in the country and I would recommend it to anyone who wishes to develop their career in archaeology.