Archaeology and History, BA (Hons), with industry placement

Our BA in Ancient History and Archaeology with Professional Placement invites you to explore the enduring influence of Greco-Roman cultures on the modern world. This programme integrates the study of history—covering political, social, and cultural contexts—with hands-on archaeological training, examining material remains from early human origins to the past millennium across regions including Britain, Europe, Africa, America, the Middle East, and South Asia. By combining these disciplines, students gain a comprehensive understanding of human history through historical records, visual culture, and archaeological evidence.The degree includes a professional placement in the third year to apply academic knowledge and boost employability, followed by a final year of study. The University of Reading ranks in the top 100 globally for Archaeology (QS World Rankings by Subject 2023), with 100% of students praising teaching quality (National Student Survey 2023). Core modules encompass Archaeology Today: Methods and Practice; Early Empires: Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Rome; Greek History: War, Society, and Change in the Archaic Age; and Roman History: The Rise and Fall of the Republic. Modules are subject to final approval, so check the website for updates.

The following modules have been approved in principle for delivery in 2025/26. Please note that as part of our current curriculum improvement process, all modules require final University approval and may be subject to change. Core modules for this course: Archaeology Today: Methods and Practice Early Empires: Mesopotamia, Egypt and Rome Greek History: War, Society, and Change in the Archaic Age Roman History: The rise and fall of the Republic The University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them. Further information about the content of the final approved modules will be available in the summer of 2024. We suggest you regularly revisit our course page during this time to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding the modules offered on this programme. Check our website for more details about the course structure.