Duration and Mode of Study

Three years full- time, or four years with a year abroad.

Course Aims

This degree enables students to study two distinct disciplines for understanding human societies and cultures in the past. The differences and complementarity of these two approaches make this degree challenging and exciting.

Course Structure

First Year

In your first year you will split your studies equally between archaeology and history, taking core modules in medieval, early modern and global history. You will also study the archaeological past from the origins of the human species to the twentieth century, as well as studying archaeological theory. Towards the end of your first year you will participate in an excavation training school at the iron age hillfort of Burrough Hill, near Leicester.  

Second Year

In your second year you will again equally balance your studies between the two subjects. In History, you will take the core module Perceiving the Past along with two other courses available from a range of modules allowing you to begin to tailor your studies towards your own interests. You also take a core module on Theory and Archaeology and will also choose two archaeological periods to study in detail. You will also have the option to study a range of laboratory- based courses, such as Environmental Archaeology and Artefact Analysis. At the end of the year you participate in a research excavation, which can take place anywhere in the world.

Third Year

In your third year you will write a dissertation on a topic of your choice and choose four specialist modules from a wide range offered by both departments. You must take at least one additional module in the department in which you are writing your dissertation. 

Information about core and optional modules taught in the School

For further information about the BA History and Archaeology degree, contact the School of Archaeology and Ancient History