Course summary

This course allows students to develop an overview of world archaeology, but also to focus on the range of scientific techniques used to explore the past. With access to state-of the-art laboratory facilities and outstanding training by some of the world’s leading archaeological scientists, you will have the opportunity to learn techniques such as DNA and isotopic analysis, Geographical Information Systems, geoarchaeology, archaeobotany, and the analysis of human and animal skeletal remains. By the end of the degree you will be equipped with cutting-edge science and social science research skills, and a wide range of transferable skills relevant to many career paths, including data management and analysis, critical thinking and writing, and written and oral presentation. As a BSc Archaeology student, you will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills through a series of Scientific Methods in Archaeology modules, as well as second-year Advanced Skills options, and third-year Specialised Aspects of Archaeology options. Class-room teaching is complemented by small-group tutorials and lab-based practical's, that will guide you in developing expertise in ancient landscapes and environments, past climate change, diet, migrations, mobility, health, animal-human interactions, scientific dating, materials science, and techniques for conservation relevant to archaeological objects and collections. All BSc Archaeology students have the opportunity to take part in archaeological fieldwork in the UK and abroad, engaging directly with current departmental research projects, and learning a host of archaeological and transferable skills. The capstone of the degree is your own research project, or dissertation, which you will develop under the direct guidance of a member of staff who is an expert in the field. Students studying this course can also follow a route accredited by CIfA, the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists. Choosing an accredited undergraduate degree is widely recognised as the first step on a career pathway leading to professional status. To obtain a CIfA accredited degree, students study modules which equip them with the requisite theoretical and practical knowledge to act as a foundation for a career in the UK commercial archaeology sector.