Archaeology and Geography, BA (Hons)

Human societies develop through complex interactions with climate and the environment, which geography and archaeology explore as natural partners. This course examines the evolving relationship between people, landscapes, and the environment from prehistory to the present, requiring no prior archaeology experience. Students gain skills in archaeological surveying, recording, cartography, statistics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and archival research. The program mandates 10 days of fieldwork via approved excavations or placements in the UK or abroad, with collaborations including the British Geological Survey and the University Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, plus artefact-handling sessions at the on-campus museum.In the first year, core modules introduce archaeological principles and geography themes, with optional credits in both fields and initial fieldwork. Year two advances research techniques and interpretation, including human or physical geography options, while developing skills for a third-year dissertation. Students receive at least 10 hours of weekly contact through lectures and seminars, with year two counting as 33% of the final classification. The final year features a 40-credit dissertation and advanced modules in archaeology or geography.

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, your core modules (70 credits) will cover the principles and methods of archaeological investigation. You will also develop an understanding of key themes in human and physical geography. You will take 20 credits of optional archaeology modules, and 30 credits of optional geography modules. In the summer break, you will complete at least part of your required archaeological fieldwork placement. For your core modules in year two, you will study more advanced approaches and interpretation techniques of archaeological research. You will also take either a human geography or physical geography option. As with year one, you will choose from a range of optional modules. You will also be helped to develop advanced research skills in both disciplines, in order to prepare you for your third-year dissertation project You will be supported to develop advanced research skills in both disciplines to prepare for your third-year dissertation. 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 write a 40-credit dissertation in either archaeology or geography. The remaining 80 credits will be taken from a range of geography and archaeology modules to develop advanced knowledge and skills.