Course summary
Archaeology unites the sciences and humanities to explore our shared human past. This course allows you to explore a range of scientific approaches in our laboratories and in the field. You will examine animal bones, human skeletons and ancient materials, applying techniques that range from the study of ancient DNA to chemical analysis and the study of isotopes. You also have the opportunity to explore cultures from a wide range of periods and geographical regions. You will complete 20 days of archaeological fieldwork. This includes taking part in an approved excavation project, or a related placement, in the UK or overseas. In the core module, 'Communicating the Past', you will consider how best to present heritage to the public, working in groups to create an interactive activity based on your studies. Recent project titles have included: Europe’s Ice Age Hunter-Gatherers – museum exhibition design Hadrian’s Wall – an Archaeology Escape Room experience HMS Royal George – a digital shipwreck tour Seeking out Nottingham’s Past – an Archaeology puzzle game Travel the Apennine Way – Roman Board Game We work closely with the British Geological Survey and the University Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, and offer artefact-handling sessions and educational projects at the on-campus University Museum. You are encouraged to follow your interests and can choose from our full range of modules in classics and archaeology, studying the language, history, art and culture of the ancient world. You can also take subsidiary modules from other departments – such as history, philosophy, or history of art – or study a language. You don't need any scientific or archaeological experience to join the course.
Modules
Our first-year core modules are designed as an introduction. Even if you haven’t studied archaeology before, we’ll build everyone's knowledge to the same level, so you can progress through to year two. In year one you will follow the same programme as students on Archaeology BA. You will take 120 credits of modules each year. In year one, you will cover the general principles and scientific methods of archaeology. You will also study some of the key aspects and periods. You will choose from a range of optional modules, some of which include elements of ancient history and classical civilisations. You may also choose from a range of complementary modules in other subjects. You’ll have at least 12 hours of timetabled contact a week through lectures, seminars and tutorials. You must pass year one, but it does not count towards your final degree classification. On this course, you are required to complete 20 days of archaeological fieldwork or other professional experience. For more information, visit the Archaeology fieldwork webpage. In year two, you will study our core 'Communicating the Past' and 'Archaeology: Theory and Practice' modules. You will take a minimum of two archaeological science modules with a strong science component. You will then choose from a range of additional topics in archaeology for your remaining credits, as well as optional modules from other subjects. You’ll have at least 10 hours of timetabled contact a week through lectures, seminars and tutorials. You must pass year two, which counts as 33% towards your final degree classification. In year three, you will undertake your own research project and dissertation. You will take a minimum of two modules in archaeological science with a strong science component. You will then choose from a range of additional archaeology topics and modules from other departments, to make up your remaining credits. You’ll have at least eight hours of timetabled contact a week through lectures, seminars and tutorials. You must pass year three, which counts as 67% towards your final degree classification.
How to apply
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- V401
- Institution code:
- N84
- Campus name:
- University Park Campus
- Campus code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
European Baccalaureate - 75% overall. GCSE requirements - English grade c ( numeric grade 4)
Unistats information
The student satisfaction data is from students surveyed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Republic of Ireland | £9250* | Year 1 |
EU | £21500* | Year 1 |
England | £9250* | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £9250* | Year 1 |
Scotland | £9250* | Year 1 |
Wales | £9250* | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £9250* | Year 1 |
International | £21500* | Year 1 |
*This is a provisional fee and subject to change.
Additional fee information
Provider information
University of Nottingham
University Park
Nottingham
NG7 2RD
Course contact details
Visit our course pageUndergraduate admissions
+44 (0)115 951 5559