This initiative aims to foster the future of archaeological research and education at the University of Cambridge. With your support, we can ensure that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can pursue postgraduate studies in archaeology, further enriching our understanding of the past and shaping the future of the discipline.

A more diverse cohort of students improves the robustness of debate, research and learning for all. It broadens the range of ideas, talents and intellects at work, and our graduates take this knowledge and skill forward to benefit society. Supporting postgraduate students has an enormous impact on students as individuals and their ability to contribute to the wider world.

Archaeology at Cambridge

At the University of Cambridge, archaeology holds a unique position, blending rigorous academic inquiry with innovative fieldwork and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our department is at the forefront of archaeological research, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and shedding light on the complexities of human history. From studying our deep human past to exploring contemporary issues such as climate change and cultural heritage preservation, Cambridge archaeologists are making significant contributions to global scholarship.

Distinguished alumni

Our rich legacy of archaeological scholarship is reflected in our distinguished alumni, who have gone on to become leaders in academia, heritage management, and cultural institutions around the world. From Professor Lord Colin Renfrew, whose groundbreaking work in archaeological theory has shaped the field for decades, to Professor Marie Louise Stig Sørensen who pioneered Heritage studies at Cambridge, Cambridge archaeologists continue to make an impact far beyond the university walls.

Student numbers

The Department of Archaeology, with over 60 academic staff members and state-of-the-art facilities, provides a vibrant and supportive environment for archaeological research and education. Annually, our department welcomes a diverse cohort of approximately 80110 postgraduate students, making it one of the most vibrant and dynamic hubs for archaeological study in the world. Our students have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork projects around the world, gaining practical experience and contributing to ground-breaking research. However, the costs associated with postgraduate study can be a barrier for many talented individuals, limiting access to this transformative educational experience.

Widening access through funding

The Cambridge Archaeology Postgraduate Fund seeks to address this challenge by establishing a dedicated fund to support postgraduate students in archaeology. By gathering small-scale contributions from alumni, friends, and supporters, we can provide vital financial assistance to students, covering expenses such as tuition fees, research costs, and fieldwork opportunities. This support not only enables talented individuals to pursue their academic ambitions but also ensures that the future of archaeology remains diverse, vibrant, and inclusive.

To continue to build the strongest Archaeology postgraduate programmes possible, it is vital that the best students - with the most potential - can study here, regardless of their background and means. Supporting postgraduate students has an enormous impact on both the students as individuals and their ability to contribute to the wider world.

Join us

Your contribution to the Cambridge Archaeology Postgraduate Appeal will make a huge difference to the lives of aspiring archaeologists and the future of our discipline. Together, we can ensure that the pursuit of knowledge knows no boundaries and that the voices of the past continue to resonate in the present and shape the future.