Archaeology

Archaeology at the University of Southampton offers a comprehensive and dynamic degree programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of human history through the excavation and interpretation of material culture. Our curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical fieldwork, providing students with essential skills in excavation techniques, artefact analysis, and cultural heritage management. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics, including prehistoric societies, ancient civilizations, and the development of human societies across different periods and regions.

The programme emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from anthropology, history, and science to enrich students’ understanding of archaeological contexts. Opportunities for hands-on learning are extensive, including supervised excavation projects, laboratory work, and museum-related activities. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, research skills, and scientific literacy, preparing them for careers in archaeology, heritage management, academia, and related fields.

Located at the forefront of archaeological research, the University of Southampton provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert academics who are actively engaged in cutting-edge research. Our supportive academic community fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to participate in conferences, field trips, and internship placements that enhance their professional development. Graduates from this programme are well-equipped to pursue further postgraduate study or enter the workforce as archaeologists, cultural resource managers, or museum professionals. With a strong focus on employability and real-world skills, the Archaeology degree at Southampton aims to cultivate knowledgeable, skilled, and ethically-minded archaeologists ready to make meaningful contributions to understanding and preserving human history.

Detailed Course Facts

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

• English

Course Content

This programme covers a wide range of world archaeology, from the first appearance of humans two million years ago. You will also learn more about the methods used to find out about the past.

Period-based and practical moduless introduce the breadth of the subject in year one, with specialised modules and research in the second and final years.

Three-week field project in the UK or abroad.

Develop your own specialist interest with the dissertation in your final year.

Option to take up to 25 per cent of your programme in an alternative subject.

Work placements

Wessex Archaeology is one of the largest archaeological units in the UK. Through their Student Bursary scheme, which they operate exclusively with the University of Southampton, they offer a six-month contract as a Project Assistant to one of our third year students. The post is a means of providing an important first step for recent graduates interested in a field-based career by giving an opportunity to gain skills and experience and to advance their careers by working in a professional environment.

Fieldwork opportunities

The course includes three weeks' fieldwork in the UK or abroad and there are opportunities for more fieldwork or placements. Many of the fieldwork projects, which are a required element of the degree course, are overseas. Current research field projects include Nevis (Caribbean), Calabria (Italy), Andalucia (Spain) and Namibia (Southern Africa).

Requirements

A Levels:

AAB from 3 A levels; or ABB from 3 A levels with an A in Extended Project Qualification

or

ABB from 3 A levels; or BBB from 3 A levels with an A in Extended Project Qualification

or

BBB from 3 A levels

IB:

34 points, 17 at higher level

or

32 points, 16 at higher level

or

30 points, 16 at higher level

International Foundation Year

International students who do not currently meet our entry requirements may be able to join this course on successful completion of our International Foundation Year. For more information visit the IFY course page

Selection process:

Intake: 50 Average applicants per place: 6

UCAS application and interview

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 BA Archaeology program at the University of Southampton offers students a comprehensive introduction to the study of human history through material remains and artefacts. This degree is designed to equip students with a wide range of skills essential for understanding past human societies, including archaeological theory, fieldwork techniques, laboratory analysis, and the interpretation of archaeological data. The program covers key areas such as prehistoric, classical, medieval, and post-medieval archaeology, providing a broad understanding of different periods and regions.

Students will have the opportunity to participate in excavations, surveys, and laboratory work, gaining practical experience that complements their theoretical studies. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to analyze archaeological findings within broader cultural and historical contexts. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop their own research interests, with options to specialise in areas such as environmental archaeology, heritage management, and digital archaeology.

The University of Southampton’s Department of Archaeology is known for its strong research environment, with faculty members actively engaged in international research projects. This environment provides students with exposure to the latest developments in archaeological sciences and methodologies. The program also benefits from the university’s extensive resources, including archaeological laboratories, libraries, and collections.

Students on this program are supported by a dedicated team of academic staff and are encouraged to undertake placements and internships with museums, archaeological contractors, and heritage organizations. These opportunities enhance employment prospects post-graduation, providing practical experience in the sector.

Graduates of the BA Archaeology program have gone on to work in various fields such as cultural heritage management, museum curation, archaeological consulting, and academic research. Others have continued their studies at postgraduate level, pursuing master's and doctoral degrees to specialise further. The program’s combination of practical skills, theoretical understanding, and research experience ensures that graduates are well prepared for careers in archaeology and related disciplines.

The program is typically designed to be completed over three years full-time, with options for sandwich or part-time study. The university also offers opportunities for study abroad, allowing students to gain international perspectives on archaeology. Overall, the BA Archaeology at Southampton provides a rigorous and engaging education for students passionate about exploring human history through archaeology.