Course summary

What can we learn from the past? What do the artefacts archaeologists dig up tell us about civilisations, communities and individuals? Learn practical skills and develop a unique long-term perspective on human, animal and material worlds and their relevance to the present. Our Archaeology BA will enhance your understanding of the diverse societies of the past through the traces they have left in the form of material objects and texts. We will cover material from the first use of stone tools 3.3 million years ago to the present day. Leicester is world-famous for our discovery of Richard III, and you’ll benefit from working alongside academics who have made incredible finds. Practical experience is a key part of the course. You will participate in excavations and learn various fieldwork techniques throughout your degree to equip you with the skills and knowledge to interpret what you unearth. You will have the opportunity to gain experience with local heritage organisations, schools and our professional archaeological unit through Year 2 and 3 module placements, and our accredited internship programme. You will have the chance to study a diverse range of topics during your time here. Our academic staff have particular expertise in Roman archaeology, prehistory, historical archaeology, heritage, archaeological theory and archaeological sciences, as well as all aspects of Classical (Greek and Roman) history. Our degrees provide transferable skills in communication, presentation, critical analysis and teamwork. This will be critical for your future career, whether it is in archaeological studies or in one of the wide range of professions that attract our graduates. It does not matter if you have little or no previous experience in archaeology; we have designed our courses for maximum flexibility. This allows you to choose how you want to specialise or diversify, as your knowledge and understanding develop. At the end of your first year you can choose to transfer to the Archaeology BSc. What's the difference between the BA and the BSc? In year one, our BA and BSc follow the same structure, providing you with a broad introduction to archaeology. You then specialise in the second and the third year. This means that there is flexibility to change course at the end of the first year if you change your mind about which is best for you. The Archaeology BA has an emphasis on heritage and the heritage sector. The Archaeology BSc has an emphasis on training as a professional archaeologist.