Managing Archaeological Sites

Managing Archaeological Sites is a comprehensive postgraduate programme offered by University College London that equips students with the essential skills and knowledge required to efficiently oversee archaeological sites, heritage management, and conservation activities. This interdisciplinary course combines theoretical understanding with practical training, preparing graduates to work in various sectors including archaeological consultancy, heritage organizations, museums, and governmental agencies. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics such as archaeological site management, preservation techniques, legal and ethical considerations, cultural heritage policy, and public engagement. Students learn about the detailed processes involved in protecting and maintaining archaeological sites, including site assessment, monitoring, and conservation strategies. The programme also emphasizes sustainable management practices to balance archaeological preservation with development needs. Through a mix of lectures, seminars, hands-on workshops, and fieldwork, students gain valuable experience in archaeological site documentation, project planning, and risk analysis. Collaborations with industry professionals and heritage organizations provide practical insights and networking opportunities. The course prepares graduates for careers that require a deep understanding of archaeological legislation and management frameworks, enabling them to contribute effectively to the safeguarding of cultural heritage. Graduates will develop critical thinking, project management, and communication skills vital for operating within the complex environment of archaeological site management. The programme is suitable for recent graduates in archaeology, history, architecture, or conservation, as well as professionals seeking specialist knowledge in archaeological site stewardship. Upon completion, students will be well-equipped to assume roles such as archaeological site manager, heritage consultant, or preservation officer, contributing to the sustainable conservation of archaeological assets for future generations.

Students will grasp theoretical issues surrounding heritage management, and how to apply a planning process to holistic and sustainable site management, based on the recognition of a site's values of its interest groups. They will also learn practical methods for participatory processes, physical conservation, visitor management, site interpretation, World Heritage nomination, and heritage tourism.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of a core module (30 credits), optional modules (60 credits), an optional work placement and a research dissertation (90 credits).

Core modules

Students are required to take the following: 

• Managing Archaeological Sites

Optional modules

• Antiquities and the Law
• Archaeologies of Modern Conflict
• Archaeology and Education
• Archaeological Approaches to the Human Use of Space
• Critical Perspectives on Cultural Heritage
• Cultural Heritage, Globalisation and Development
• Cultural Memory
• GIS in Archaeology and History
• GIS Approaches to Past Landscapes
• Managing Museums
• Museum and Site Interpretation
• Public Archaeology
• The Archaeology of Complex Urban Sites: Analytical and Interpretative Techniques
• Themes in Urban Archaeology
• World Rock Art: From Paleolithic to the Present

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical demonstrations and site visits. It includes an optional three-week placement in an appropriate organisation or on-site project. Assessment is through essays, project reports, projects and practicals (depending on the options chosen), and the dissertation.

Placement

Students will have the option to undertake a voluntary placement in an appropriate organisation or on-site project for a period of three weeks in total. In recent years, these placements have included organisations such as English Heritage, The National Trust, Historic Royal Palaces, ICOMOS (Paris), World Monuments Fund (Paris), UNESCO World Heritage Centre (Paris), The Museum of London, Atkins Global, the Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa (Portugal), MIRAS (Iran), City Museum (Palermo), Ancient Merv State Archaeological Park (Turkmenistan), and the National Institute of Informatics (Tokyo, Japan). This is not assessed.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The financing of the Managing Archaeological Sites program at University College London involves a combination of funding sources aimed at supporting both domestic and international students. Tuition fees constitute a significant portion of the program's funding structure. For home students, the university offers competitive tuition rates, with additional funding opportunities available through government-sponsored student loans and grants. The UK government provides maintenance grants and loans to eligible students, which can be used to cover living costs and educational expenses during their studies. International students are also encouraged to apply for scholarships, including UCL global scholarships, departmental awards, and external funding options provided by cultural and archaeological organizations worldwide.

UCL actively promotes financial aid schemes to increase accessibility to the program, including bursaries and fee waivers for students demonstrating financial need. The university collaborates with various sponsors and heritage organizations to secure project-specific funding, which can sometimes include grants dedicated to archaeological research and site management projects. Additionally, students may seek external scholarships offered by professional archaeological bodies, foundations, and cultural heritage funds.

Particularly for research-based components of the program, additional funding avenues include research council grants and special project funding facilitated through partnerships with archaeological institutes and heritage management agencies. The university also provides guidance on applying for external research funding to support thesis work or specialized field projects undertaken as part of the curriculum.

Overall, the financial structure of the Managing Archaeological Sites program is designed to be flexible, offering multiple pathways for students to secure funding based on their individual circumstances. The university’s dedicated bursary and scholarship offices assist students in navigating the application process for various funding opportunities, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to this advanced archaeological management education.

Managing Archaeological Sites at University College London offers an interdisciplinary approach to the preservation, management, and interpretation of archaeological heritage. The program is designed for students interested in exploring the complex issues involved in conserving archaeological sites within contemporary urban and rural environments. It combines theoretical frameworks with practical skills, providing a comprehensive understanding of archaeological management practices. Students will engage with a variety of topics, including strategic planning, legislation and policy, conservation techniques, and the socio-economic aspects of site management. The course also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and ethical considerations in archaeological practice. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical projects, students will develop the competencies necessary to assess site significance, develop management plans, and work with multidisciplinary teams. The program prepares graduates for careers in archaeological consultancy, heritage management organizations, government bodies, or further research. The faculty features experts in archaeology, conservation, policy, and heritage studies, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. The course typically spans one year full-time, but part-time options may be available. Admission requirements include relevant academic backgrounds and relevant experience in archaeology or heritage conservation. Students benefit from UCL’s extensive resources, including access to collections, research centers, and fieldwork opportunities. Networking opportunities are further enhanced through collaborations with industry professionals and participation in conferences and workshops. Overall, the program aims to produce responsible and informed professionals capable of making meaningful contributions to the sustainable management of archaeological sites worldwide.