Archaeology BSc (Hons)

UCL (University College London)

This programme provides a training in archaeology focusing on the analysis of ancient materials and past environments, essential theoretical concepts and field techniques. Archaeological science addresses important questions about past societies, and there are opportunities to participate in current research using our extensive laboratories and wide-ranging reference collections.

Course overview

The Archaeology BA and BSc share many of the same core modules in your first and second year. The routes then differ in the focus of optional modules as you choose modules with a greater (BSc) or lesser (BA) concentration on the scientific analysis of findings.

The first year provides a grounding in archaeological concepts, practical methods in archaeology and an introduction to major issues in world prehistory.

The second and third years provide a more advanced understanding of archaeology and theoretical approaches, and allow you to develop your own specialised interests by choosing optional modules in particular subject areas.

In the third year you are given the chance to reflect critically on your fieldwork experience during the degree through a fieldwork portfolio, and write a 10,000-word dissertation on a detailed subject that you will choose, research and write up with the help of a supervisor.

Your learning

You will be taught using a mixture of lectures, seminars and practical sessions, either field or laboratory-based. Full use is made of our extensive teaching and reference collections and close connections to the national museums and collections of London.

Assessment

Coursework, typically 1,500-2,500 word essays, is used to assess most modules. Most compulsory modules and some optional modules involve an examination element too. The completion of 70 days' fieldwork is a requirement for all archaeology students.

Careers

Throughout the degree, which includes 70 days of fieldwork, students develop the ability to work collaboratively and effectively within teams as well as working independently in order to execute research. Students develop strong research and analytical skills and an appreciation of the importance of recovering primary data through practical experience.

Students learn to communicate effectively verbally, visually and in writing to diverse audiences and develop a sensitivity to different cultures. They also develop excellent transferrable skills providing the experience necessary to work both within the archaeology, heritage and museum sector and in numerous sectors outside of the discipline.

Our graduates go on to work in a diverse range of fields from archaeology (fieldwork, research and academia), heritage, museums, the UK civil service, politics, police, law, engineering, business - the possibilities are extremely wide and varied.