Archaeology
UCAS code: V402
COURSE OVERVIEW
- Ranked 6th for overall student satisfaction in England for Archaeology, and 2nd out of the modern (post-’92) universities in England
- Learn applied scientific approach to archaeology, with fieldwork opportunities throughout the year and research using original laboratory and/or field data
- Use our fully equipped laboratory and the latest range of industry-standard surveying equipment, including a ground penetrating radar and geoscan gradiometers
- Join research projects abroad, such as in Barbados and Georgia
- Explore the rich archaeological heritage of Wessex
- Accredited by The Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK).
Do you dig it? If you’re excited by the idea of using modern scientific techniques to explore how people lived in the past our science-based Archaeology degree is a great find for you. Learn the latest methods and approaches and how they’re applied, then carry out your own original biological, physical and earth science research to solve problems of the human past.
The course covers a broad range of methods and techniques. In our well-equipped laboratories you can learn how to analyse the chemical composition of human and animal bones and discover what they reveal about past diets; in the field you can choose to work on sites in both Britain and overseas, and in the library, you can study archaeological periods ranging from the Palaeolithic (Old Stone Age), through Classical Greece to the medieval and post-medieval periods.
To make sure you leave no stone unturned during fieldwork, we have excellent field equipment, including a ground penetrating radar, magnetometers, magnetic susceptibility meters, differential GPS instruments and total stations. In addition, you will learn how to use industry standard computer software such as ArcGIS, Geoplot and AutoCAD. Our department has a geoarchaeological consultancy (ARCA), whose staff will also teach you. The consultancy offers valuable laboratory work experience and an opportunity to see how archaeological science is used in professional archaeology.
In Year 1 you dig into the theory and practice of archaeology, while covering the story of humanity. You explore the methods, theories and approaches that underpin archaeological science, as well as considering the importance of fieldwork and material culture.
In Year 2, you acquire the scientific skills that are key in archaeology, such as laboratory techniques and the use of Geographic Information Systems software. You also explore archaeological theory and consider how past climate and environmental change has affected ancient cultures. You then put these skills and knowledge to use in practical projects in your areas of interest, which may include human bioarchaeology (the study of human skeletal remains), geomatics and remote sensing, or geomorphology.
During Year 3, you write a dissertation based on a piece of applied scientific research that you carry out, usually in a laboratory and/or field setting. You can also branch out into examining the archaeology of the southern Caucasus, the Caribbean, as well as Europe and from a range of perspectives. These latter include the impact of the natural environement, religion, society and conflict.
The Department of Archaeology, Anthropology and Geography at the University of Winchester is a Registered Archaeological Organisation with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), a quality assurance scheme for professional practice in the field.
Many graduates have used the skills and knowledge gained on the course to pursue careers in professional archaeology, such as with an archaeological unit. Others work in the applied sciences, including in various types of laboratories, in environmental management and geomatics.
But with highly-prized key skills in areas such as time and project management, problem solving, teamwork, cultural awareness and the ability to express ideas clearly to a wide range of audiences you are able to explore non-vocational careers, too.
Find out more about the Department for Archaeology, Anthropology and Geography
Careers
Graduates proceed directly into a career in professional archaeology, for example with an archaeological trust or unit. Others enter careers within applied science, for example environmental management, geomatics and remote sensing.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment and further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021, HESA.
Accreditation
This programme has been accredited by the The Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK).
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degrees with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
ABOUT THIS COURSE
Suitable for Applicants from:
UK, EU, World
Work placements
Students are required to attend the summer training excavation for four weeks during the first summer vacation. Currently there are UK fieldwork opportunities in the spring and summer and students can join fieldwork research projects elsewhere in the world such as Barbados, Germany and the Republic of Georgia.
Study abroad
Our BSc (Hons) Archaeology course provides an opportunity for you to study abroad in the United States of America (USA).
For more information see our Study Abroad section.
Learning and teaching
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures, practicals (field and class-based) and seminars, the latter in small groups and affording the opportunity to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars etc., you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
Year 1 (Level 4): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 228 hours
Independent learning: 972 hours
Year 2 (Level 5): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 396 hours
Independent learning: 804 hours
Year 3 (Level 6): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 264 hours
Independent learning: 936 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Location
Taught elements of the course take place on campus in Winchester.
Teaching hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Assessment
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
Percentage of the course assessed by coursework
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
Year 1 (Level 4)*:
62% coursework
25% written exams
13% practical exams
Year 2 (Level 5)*:
74% coursework
13% written exams
13% practical exams
Year 3 (Level 6)*:
53% coursework
39% written exams
8% practical exams
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Feedback
We are committed to providing timely and appropriate feedback to you on your academic progress and achievement in order to enable you to reflect on your progress and plan your academic and skills development effectively. You are also encouraged to seek additional feedback from your course tutors.
Further information
For more information about our regulations for this course, please see our Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
2023 Entry: 104-120 UCAS tariff points
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BCC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Merit in a T Level
In addition to the above, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
- GCSEs in Mathematics and English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT.
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
Course Enquiries and Applications
Telephone: +44 (0) 1962 827234
Send us a message
International Students
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by emailing our International Recruitment Team at International@winchester.ac.uk or calling +44 (0)1962 827023
Visit us
Explore our campus and find out more about studying at Winchester by coming to one of our Open Days.
Year 1: Level 4
Modules Credits
| Introduction to Archaeological Resources | 15 | |
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This module introduces students to a range of archaeological resources through well-defined practical tasks and site visits. Students will be introduced to local sources of archaeological and historical information through a tour of the City of Winchester, visits to the Record Office, Museums and Historic Environment Record. In addition, an introduction to online resources such as the Archaeological Data Service, Historic Environment Records and EDINA will provide students with a sound guide to their use. Students will then work in pairs on different activities each week including the analysis of pottery fabrics, map interpretation, aerial photograph plotting, compiling HER-type data, simple bone identification and deposit mapping. |
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| World Prehistory | 15 | |
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This module provides an introduction to the development of humans from hominid origins to the development of written forms of communication. Therefore, although the module has a single chronological starting point (c 7.5 my BP), it has a variable end point depending upon the part of the world under discussion. The module addresses the main stages of human evolution and development, starting with the separation from the Honinidae (the human family) from the Pongidae (the apes), the transition from Australopithecines to Homo and eventually to modern humans, and covering the origins and development of crucial human processes such as technology, social systems, art, farming and urbanisation. The significance of the independent invention of key developments (such as agriculture) in different parts of the world will be stressed. By these means, the student will gain a greater awareness of the main sequences of human development on a world scale, be able to better appreciate the 'time lines' of the prehistoric periods and will understand how the prehistory of the British Isles is a connected sub-set of that of both continental Europe and the world as a whole. |
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| Introduction to Archaeology | 15 | |
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This module forms an introduction to the principles and methods upon which the study of archaeology is based. No prior knowledge of the subject is assumed or expected. The philosophical distinctiveness of the subject is outlined, and the various sub-divisions within archaeology (e.g. environmental archaeology, experimental archaeology) are examined. This leads on to an assessment of the methods of establishing chronological sequences in archaeology, and an overview of the methods to be examined in more detail in later modules. These thematic lectures are buttressed by the use of sessions looking at case studies of recent research projects within the Department in order to help draw together and assist understanding of the key themes. Parallel study skills sessions alongside this lecture series allow you to develop quickly the key skills needed in an HE environment. |
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| Introduction to Archaeological Science | 15 | |
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This module provides an introduction to methods, theoretical underpinning and application of the biological, Earth and physical sciences in archaeology. It also introduces mathematical concepts that are of vital importance in using scientific data in archaeology. The module is divided into five parts comprising: a: methods of age estimation (e.g. chronometric and incremental approaches), b: provenancing studies (e.g. of stone and ceramic artefacts, but also layers on archaeological sites), c: locating archaeological sites (remote sensing), d: palaeoenvironmental reconstruction (e.g. of past vegetation and animals), and d: economic investigation (e.g. subsistence and diet, craft activities). Each theme is explored by first discussing the theoretical basis of approaches that are used, for example introducing uniformitarian concepts when discussing palaeoenvironmental reconstruction examining the range of techniques available, exploring in detail those most frequently used and then discussing how data are interpreted and problems that might result. |
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| Introduction to Archaeological Fieldwork | 15 | |
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This module introduces students to the range of fieldwork techniques available to archaeologists and explores their various strengths and weaknesses. It outlines how each technique works and provides a guide to their appropriate use. The first part of the module comprises a series of lectures that introduce each technique and the equipment used. The second half of the module provides an opportunity for introductory training on equipment used by the Archaeology Department at a local archaeological site. |
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| Introduction to Material Culture | 15 | |
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Archaeologists deal with things. These things (material culture or artefacts) are a way of understanding the lives of the humans who made them. This course presents you with a detailed background to the main categories of material culture that you might encounter on any archaeological sites; these items include: stone tools, pottery, coins, metalwork etc. You will learn about the technology behind these artefacts, and crucially how things that we make do not just have a simple function, but also encode important symbolic information as well. By the end of this course you will look afresh at the way humans make and give meaning to even the most mundane and everyday items. |
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| The Archaeology of the Historic Period | 15 | |
| Study Skills and Research Methods | 15 | |
Year 2: Level 5
Modules Credits
| Thinking Through Theory | 15 | |
| Archaeological Science Project | 15 | |
| Archaeological Fieldwork and Post-Fieldwork Techniques | 15 | |
| Applied Technique: Geographic Information Systems | 15 | |
| Year 2 Optional Modules | ||
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Optional Credits
| Thinking Through Theory | 15 | |
| Archaeological Science Project | 15 | |
| Archaeological Fieldwork and Post-Fieldwork Techniques | 15 | |
| Applied Technique: Geographic Information Systems | 15 | |
| Year 2 Optional Modules | ||
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Year 3: Level 6
Modules Credits
| Extended Independent Study in Archaeology | 30 | |
| Public Archaeology and Careers | 15 | |
| Puzzling the Past | 15 | |
| Year 3 Optional Modules | ||
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Optional Credits
| Extended Independent Study in Archaeology | 30 | |
| Public Archaeology and Careers | 15 | |
| Puzzling the Past | 15 | |
| Year 3 Optional Modules | ||
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Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing, for full-time students entering the programme in Year 1. Optional modules are listed where applicable. Please note the University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. For further information please refer to the terms and conditions at www.winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions.
The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed above.
Progression from one level of the programme to the next is subject to meeting the University’s academic regulations.
2023 Course Tuition Fees
| UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International | |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | £9,250 | £14,700 |
| Year 2 | £9,250 | £14,700 |
| Year 3 | £9,250 | £14,700 |
| Total | £27,750 | £44,100 |
| Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,385 | £1,440 |
| Total with Sandwich Year | £29,135 | £45,540 |
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2023, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don't have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year. If finance is a worry for you, we are here to help. Take a look at the range of support we have on offer. This is a great investment you are making in your future, so make sure you know what is on offer to support you.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £122.50 and a 15 credit module is £1,837.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year. To find out whether this course offers a sandwich year, please contact the programme leader for further information.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
ADDITIONAL COSTS
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights the mandatory and optional costs for this course:
Optional
Field trips
Students will have the option to participate in a four day-long Archaeology field trip module in their second year of study. Indicative cost is £150.
Mandatory
Excavation
Students are required to undertake four weeks compulsory fieldwork which takes place over the summer after Year 1, with a further four weeks' compulsory fieldwork in the summer after Year 2 (or the summer following completion of the professional placement in Year 3). Students opt to do the fieldwork at one of the Department's research/ training projects. Local projects have no direct costs for student participants, but students may need to pay for their travel. Students who opt to join non-local projects may have to cover project-specific costs. At the highest end of this spectrum are the projects in Barbados (indicative cost is £1200 for two weeks); and Georgia (indicative cost is £1500 for four weeks) where the costs include flights, food and accommodation for the duration of the project.
Printing and Binding
The University is pleased to offer our students a printing allowance of £5 each academic year. This will print around 125 A4 (black and white) pages. If students wish to print more, printer credit can be topped up by the student. The University and Student Union are champions of sustainability and we ask all our students to consider the environmental impact before printing.
Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards.
Key course details
- UCAS code
- V402
- Duration
- 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time
- Typical offer
- 104-120 points
- Location
- On campus, Winchester
Archaeology Degree Programmes Receive Professional Accreditation
Winchester joins a select group of universities in England and Northern Ireland to receive accreditation from the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and University Archaeology UK (UAUK), which recognises undergraduate and Master's degrees providing skills relevant to a career in the historic environment.
University archaeologists help uncover the truth about Ice Age mammoth mystery
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