Archaeology and Anthropology

Our Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Southampton offers an in-depth exploration of human history, culture, and societies from prehistoric times to the present day. This interdisciplinary programme combines the scientific and humanities-based approaches of archaeology and anthropology, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of human diversity, cultural evolution, and material culture. Throughout the course, students will engage with a wide range of topics including ancient civilizations, archaeological methods and technologies, ethnography, social structures, and contemporary issues facing societies around the world. The programme emphasizes hands-on learning through excavation projects, laboratory work, and field trips, complemented by theoretical modules that develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Students will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as prehistoric archaeology, classical archaeology, or social anthropology, tailoring the degree to their interests and career goals. The curriculum is designed to foster research skills, cultural awareness, and an appreciation for the complexities of human life across different contexts. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert academic staff, students will be well-equipped for careers in heritage management, research, education, or further postgraduate study. The university's vibrant academic community and strong links with cultural institutions enhance the learning experience, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to understanding and preserving human history and diversity in a globalized world.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14660 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The programme is normally studied over three years full-time, but may also be taken on a part-time basis for a period of not less than four and not more than eight academic years. Study is undertaken in three parts (each corresponding to one year of full-time study). There are 30 study weeks in each year.

The programme is divided into courses (modules), eight being taken at each level. Usually four courses are taken in each semester but a 3/5 split is possible if agreed between a student and their tutor. Single modules have a credit value of 15, while double modules have a value of 30. Each part has a total credit value of 120.

The expected exit award is a BA, and to achieve this you must gain 360 credits. If you complete 120 credits in Part 1, you will be eligible for a Certificate of Higher Education, and if you complete 240 credits in Parts 1 and 2 you will be eligible for a Diploma of Higher Education.

Year 1

In addition students must complete 3 weeks fieldwork training on an approved field project. This will normally be undertaken in the summer between Parts 1 and 2.

Semester One

Compulsory:

• ARCH1057 The development of archaeological and anthropological thought

Optional:

• ARCH1001 Human Origins

• ARCH1047 Artefacts, materials and archaeological science

• ARCH1062 Wonderful things: World history in 40 objects

• SOCI1001 Understanding Everyday Life

Semester Two

Compulsory:

• ANTH1001 Exploring Other Cultures

Optional:

• ARCH1005 Archaeological methods for fieldwork and analysis

• ARCH1030 Foundations of the modern world: classical and medieval archaeology

• ARCH1002 The emergence of civilisation: domesticating ourselves and others

• ARCH1028 Landscapes and seascapes of Britain's past

• SOCI1002 Transformations of the Modern World

• SOCI1014 Foundations in Social and Anthropological Theory: Traditions of Thought and Argument

• STAT1003 Introduction to Quantitative Methods

Year 2

Semester One

Compulsory:

• ARCH2028 Advanced methods of archaeological analysis

• ARCH2037 Archaeological Fieldwork

Optional:

Relevant CIP modules may also be taken as options (e.g. UOSM 2030 Body and Society; UOSM2014 Piracy, Security and Maritime Space; UOSM2005 Living with Environmental Change; UOSM2009 Ethics in a Complex World) 1. This is an indicative timetable and the semester in which courses are taught may vary. 2. Students may also choose to substitute up to TWO of the non-compulsory modules for selected alternate modules of equivalent value from across the university. 3. Not all option courses will necessarily be available in any given year

• ARCH2005 The Social Lives of Objects

• ARCH2011 Later Anglo-Saxon England

• ARCH2017 Maritime Archaeology

• ARCH2027 Bones, bodies, and burials: osteology and comparative anatomy

• ARCH2029 Digging into data: quantitative analysis for archaeology

• ARCH2036 Critical Chronologies: Issues and debates in archaeological dating

• ANTH2002 Culture, Communication & Cognition

• SOCI2031 Social Theory

• STAT2009 Research Methods in the Social Sciences

• SOCI2017 Class Structure and Social Inequality

Semester Two

Compulsory:

• ARCH2012 Archaeology and Society

• ARCH2013 Approaching the past: trends in archaeological theory

Optional:

• ARCH2001 The Archaeology of the Social Brain

• ARCH2003 Power of Rome: Europe's First Empire

• ARCH2024 Archaeological survey for landscapes and monuments

• ARCH2033 Pots and People: Ceramic Analysis in Archaeology

• ARCH2034 Impact and Invention: Knapped stone technology in its social context

• SOCI2008 Race and Ethnicity in Society

• SOCI2003 Gender and Society

Year 3

Students must choose either ARCH3025 OR SOCI3033.

Semester One

Optional:

• ARCH3025 Dissertation

• SOCI3033 Dissertation

• ARCH3005 Critical approaches to the European Bronze Age

• ARCH3017 Presenting the past: Museums and Heritage

• ARCH3028 Living with the Romans and exploring their towns and cities

• ARCH3034 Archaeology of Seafaring

• ARCH3038 Pottery under the Microscope: Ceramic and Lithic Petrology

• ARCH3039 More than Pyramids & Pharaohs? Ancient Egypt in Context

• ANTH3002 Sexuality and Intimacy

• SOCI3001 Comparative Sociology

• SOCI3076 Successful Societies

Semester Two

Optional:

• ARCH3025 Dissertation

• SOCI3019 Dissertation

• ARCH3008 Stonehenge to Skara Brae: the Neolithic of Britain

• ARCH3011 Iron Age Societies

• ARCH3014 Seeing beneath the soil: geophysical survey for archaeology

• ARCH3019 The Anthropology and Archaeology of Eating and Drinking

• ARCH3033 Computational approaches to archaeological research

• ARCH3036 Molecular Archaeology

• ANTH3003 Anthropology, Film, and Representations of the 'Other'

• ANTH3007 Human Emotions: Social and Cultural Dimensions

• SOCI3073 Cyberlives: New Technologies and Social Change

• SOCI3079 Focusing on Families

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A Levels:

AAB to BBB from three A levels. Successful applicants offering the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will receive an alternative offer reduced by one grade if they achieve an A in the EPQ.

IB:

34 to 30 points overall with 17 to 16 points at Higher level.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Southampton.

The University of Southampton offers a comprehensive program in Archaeology and Anthropology designed to provide students with a broad understanding of human history, culture, and societal development. This undergraduate degree combines theoretical frameworks with practical skills, enabling students to analyze archaeological findings and cultural practices across different periods and regions. The curriculum includes modules on prehistoric and historic archaeology, cultural anthropology, archaeological methods and techniques, and specialist topics such as heritage management, digital archaeology, and ethnography. Students have opportunities to participate in fieldwork projects both locally and internationally, gaining hands-on experience essential for a career in archaeology, museum studies, cultural resource management, or academic research. The program emphasizes research skills, critical thinking, and a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from anthropology, history, environmental science, and other related fields. Facilities at the university include archaeological laboratories, GIS and remote sensing equipment, and a dedicated archaeological excavations site. Faculty members are active researchers and practitioners in their fields, providing mentorship and engaging students with current debates and advancements in archaeology and anthropology. The program also offers optional placements, study abroad opportunities, and electives to tailor the learning experience to students’ interests and career aspirations. Graduates from the program are well-prepared for employment in cultural heritage organizations, archaeological consultancy, museums, education, or to continue with postgraduate studies. Southampton’s strong links with local archaeological sites and international institutions enhance the educational experience by connecting students with professional networks and industry experts. Overall, the program aims to cultivate a deep understanding of human history and diverse cultures, equipping students with the analytical tools and practical skills necessary for a successful career in archaeology and anthropology.