Bournemouth University - BSc (Hons) Archaeology

Bournemouth University

BSc (Hons) Archaeology

Evidence suggests that there has been a significant increase in demand for archaeologists in the UK as a result of a sharp increase in infrastructure projects, so there has never been a better time to study this degree at BU. Take the degree as a BSc or BA depending on whether you prefer a scientific or arts-based path; everyone studies the same first year, so transferring from one to the other is simple.
Combine academic study with practical experience to become an expert in all aspects of landscape surveying, remote sensing, excavation, and recording.
Learn through expert-led lectures, seminars, and a diverse range of relevant fieldwork opportunities available throughout the UK.

Course accreditation

This course is among the first to receive joint accreditation from the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), the leading professional body representing archaeologists working in the UK and overseas, and the University Archaeology UK group (UAUK).  Choosing an accredited degree is widely recognized as the first step on a career path leading to professional status. 

Entry Requirements

  • GCSE English Language or English Literature and Mathematics grade 4 (or grade C in the old grading system). We also accept iGCSEs, Key Skill Functional Skills, and other qualifications at Level 2 of the National Qualifications Framework.
  • 104–120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of two A-levels.
  • 102–118 UCAS tariff points with any combination of Distinction, Merit, And Pass grades.
  • IELTS (Academic) 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in either reading or writing and 5.5 in all other components, or equivalent.


Career Prospects

Our Archaeology degrees teach you the skills you need to work in the field as well as a slew of transferable skills that can be applied to a variety of roles in other industries. Many of our graduates go on to work for archaeology and historical preservation organizations. 90% of our graduates are employed or pursuing further education within fifteen months of graduation.
Archaeologists are in high demand, and the profession has been added to the government's list of skilled occupation shortages.

Our graduates go on to work in a wide range of positions, utilizing their transferrable skills in the positions and areas listed below:

  • Archaeologist
  • Commercial Heritage, museums, conservation trusts, and tourism
  • Data management and analysis
  • Education, higher education, research, and academia
  • Historical preservation
  • Commercial archaeology excavation and consultancy
  • Local government services, charities, social research and policy, health and social work, development,
  • Law, law enforcement, forensic science, scene of crime, and police forces
  • Overseas agencies and international organizations

Course Details

This course will be taught by a variety of instructors with relevant expertise and knowledge to the unit's content. Senior academic staff, qualified professional practitioners, demonstrators, technicians, and research students will be among those involved. You will also benefit from industry guest lectures on a regular basis.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated through coursework, culminating in your final year research project, as well as group work and written exams. The assessment methods for each unit are detailed in your course's program specification.

Year 1

Core units
AAFS Study Skills
Ancient People & Places
Approaches to Archaeology
Archaeological Practice
Gathering Time
Studying Ancient Materials

Year 2

Core units:
Archaeological Science
Environmental Archaeology
Field & Research Skills
Post-excavation Skills
Option units (choose two):
Becoming Human
Geographic Information Systems
Maritime Archaeology
Rome & Barbarian Europe
Societies of Prehistoric Europe

Final year

Core units:
Archaeological Management
Independent Research Project
Option units
Semester 1 (choose one):
Emergence & Extinction - Reconstructing Pliocene & Pleistocene Environments
Later Prehistoric Britain
The Science of Human Remains
Semester 2 (choose two):
Animals & Society
Roman Britain
Sarup to Stonehenge - Neolithic & Chalcolithic of Northwest Europe

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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