Archaeology, Anthropology and Art History (Year in Australasia or North America)

Archaeology, Anthropology and Art History at the University of East Anglia offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary programme designed to explore the rich diversity of human cultures, societies, and artistic expressions from past to present. This programme provides students with an in-depth understanding of how humans have interacted with their environments and each other across different historical periods and geographical regions. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks and practical skills, students will examine archaeological practices, anthropological theories, and art historical analysis, equipping them with a broad and adaptable skill set suitable for careers in academia, cultural heritage, museum work, research, and beyond. The course encourages critical thinking about cultural identity, social change, and the significance of material culture, ensuring students can interpret and contextualize artefacts, artworks, and cultural practices. The programme includes modules that cover prehistoric archaeology, classical archaeology, indigenous and contemporary cultures, as well as the history and theory of art. Students will also have opportunities for hands-on learning through archaeological excavations, museum placements, and fieldwork, fostering practical experience alongside academic study. With expert academic staff and access to extensive resources, the programme aims to cultivate analytical capabilities, research skills, and a global perspective on human history and creativity. Graduates will be well-prepared to pursue careers or further research in archaeology, anthropology, museum studies, cultural management, or related fields. Overall, this interdisciplinary course provides a rigorous and engaging exploration of human history, art, and culture, encouraging students to critically analyze the past and present of human societies.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14430 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International students £12,300

Students who have a year abroad and start their course in 2013 will pay a fee of £1,350 for the year abroad. Students who have a year in industry and start their course in 2013 will pay a fee of £1,250 for their year in industry.

• English

Course Content

Year 1

Core modules running through all years are designed to develop an understanding of the disciplines of archaeology, anthropology and art history. The first year is designed to lay the foundations of key skills in these three subject areas. You will take introductory seminars in archaeology and anthropology and our lecture series will give you knowledge of processes of making and ways of viewing and thinking about art.

• Introduction seminars in archaeology and anthropology will make you familiar with the methodologies and subjects of these disciplines.
• The module ‘Learning from Artefacts’ uses a variety of teaching methods to generate an understanding of how different art objects are used.
• The lecture series ‘Makers and Making’ makes you familiar with the different ways in which art objects are made and whom they are made by.
• The lecture series ‘Form, Function and Meaning addresses how objects and buildings have been used in different cultural and historical contexts.

Year 2

In the second year you enroll on three compulsory modules:

• The seminar module ‘Material Worlds’ explores how we surround ourselves with material objects and how materiality makes us who we are.
• The lecture series ‘Visual Display’ examines how objects and the human body are displayed in exhibitions and performances.
• The lecture series ‘Categories and Concepts’ introduces you to a range of concepts that allow you to think critically about art and material culture.

A range of optional modules in year two allows you to develop your interests within the context of your degree. In this year you can also choose to do a fieldwork trip.

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

In your fourth year, you will take the compulsory lecture series ‘World Art’ and choose another two optional modules. In addition, with the help of a tutor you will write a dissertation on a subject related to your year abroad.

Assessment

Key skills, issues and ideas are introduced in lectures given by all members of faculty, including art historians, anthropologists and archaeologists. More specialist study is undertaken in small group seminars.
These are chosen from a range offered within the School and across the University. You will also spend time studying and researching in the library or carrying out practical work or projects. In most subject areas, you are assessed at the end of each year on the basis of coursework and, in some cases, project and examination results.
In your final year, you will write a dissertation on a topic of your choice and with the advice of tutors. There is no final examination. Your final degree result is determined by the marks you receive in years two and four.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

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

Requirements

• A Level: AAB including at least one humanities essay-based subject
• International Baccalaureate: 33 points including at least one Higher Level humanities essay-based subject
• Scottish Highers: At least one Advanced Higher preferred in addition to Highers
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB including at least one humanities essay-based subject
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB including at least one humanities essay-based subject
• Access Course: Please contact the university for further information
• HND: Please contact the university for further information
• European Baccalaureate: 80% including at least one humanities essay-based subject

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in Reading and Writing with no less than 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 20 in Reading and Speaking components, 19 in Writing component and 17 in Listening components.
• PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing components with no less than 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.
Students will have the opportunity to meet with an academic individually on a Visit Day in order to gain a deeper insight into the course(s) you have applied for.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.
We also welcome applications for deferred entry, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

If you have alternative qualifications that have not been mentioned above, then please contact university directly for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English Language at Grade C or above.

Assessment

For the majority of candidates the most important factors in assessing the application will be past and future achievement in examinations, academic interest in the subject being applied for, personal interest and extra-curricular activities and the confidential reference.
We consider applicants as individuals and accept students from a very wide range of educational backgrounds and spend time considering your application in order to reach an informed decision relating your application. Typical offers are indicated above. Please note, there may be additional subject entry requirements specific to individual degree courses.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

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 East Anglia.

The University of East Anglia offers comprehensive degree programmes in Archaeology, Anthropology, and Art History, designed to provide students with a broad understanding of human history, culture, and artistic expressions across different periods and regions. The programmes emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for careers in research, cultural heritage management, museums, galleries, and related fields. Students have the opportunity to study diverse topics such as prehistoric archaeology, classical archaeology, cultural anthropology, social anthropology, modern art, and visual culture. The curriculum is structured to combine lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and independent research, fostering analytical thinking and critical evaluation skills. UEA’s strong links with museums, archaeological sites, and research institutions offer students practical experience through placements and collaborative projects. The university’s research-led approach ensures that students are engaged with cutting-edge developments and scholarly debates. The programmes also benefit from the university’s excellent facilities, including dedicated laboratories, libraries, and digital resources that support learning and research activities. The academic staff are active researchers and practitioners in their respective fields, providing expert guidance and mentorship. Students are encouraged to undertake fieldwork domestically and abroad, enriching their hands-on experience and cultural understanding. The degrees are suitable for those passionate about exploring human history and artistic expression, whether aiming for a career in academia, conservation, heritage management, or cultural industries. Graduates of these programmes have gone on to work in archaeological firms, galleries, museums, and heritage organizations or continue their studies at postgraduate levels. The interdisciplinary nature of the programmes at UEA allows students to develop a versatile skill set, including cross-cultural analysis, historical research, visual analysis, and effective communication. The university’s supportive academic environment, combined with its global outlook and commitment to research excellence, makes it an ideal place to study these fascinating disciplines.