Archaeology - BA (Hons)

Cardiff University

Immerse yourself in the study of the remains of past societies, from the tiny objects worn on the body to monumental complexes such as Stonehenge with our BA Archaeology.

Archaeology is the only discipline that allows you to study humanity from the earliest hominids five million years ago to the present day. It enables all of us to better understand what it is to be human and explore the richness of the human experience.

Blending the sciences, social sciences and humanities, our BA Archaeology will equip you with the skills you’ll need to study the past through material evidence and will introduce you to the archaeology of Britain and the Mediterranean World. Building on your passions and curiosity, you’ll have the opportunity to specialise in the study of the periods and regions which interest you, ranging from the prehistoric to post-medieval periods. In addition to developing an understanding of specific archaeological contexts, we’ll also ensure you can place this research and knowledge into a contemporary context including how archaeology can inform debates in today’s society and how heritage sites and collections are managed.

You will be introduced to a variety of key archaeological skills relating to the study of artefacts and environmental evidence and help you develop your field skills with eight weeks of placement, typically on an archaeological excavation, developing your skills in an authentic context. These memorable placements take place in the summers following Year One and Year Two, in the UK and overseas.

As well as practical skills, honed in the field and in our excellent facilities, you’ll gain and develop special research skills through a second-year independent study module. Supported by one of our expert staff, you’ll plan and undertake an archaeological research project on a topic of your choice. The optionality and increased specialisation as you progress through your degree means you will enjoy a programme of high integrity, tailored to furnishing you with skills of value within and beyond the heritage sector.

BA Archaeology provides the ultimate all round degree and is an excellent way to develop a range of skills valued by employers, for example through developing teamworking and leadership skills in the field and learning how to analyse evidence and communicate complex stories about the past to a range of audiences.

Distinctive Features of the Programme

Placements – home and abroad
Eight weeks of placement on archaeological excavation or with a heritage organisation.

Tailored exploration
Develop an in depth knowledge and understanding of the regions, periods and themes which interest you, whilst placing this knowledge into the bigger picture.

Established networks
Benefit from strong links with local, national and international heritage organisations.

Practical expertise
Hands-on sessions and fieldtrips allowing you to develop key skills in working with archaeological materials.

School of History, Archaeology and Religion