Anthropology and Archaeology graduates, like all arts and humanities students, develop a wide range of skills which are highly attractive to employers. Studying Anthropology and Archaeology involves analysing evidence of human activity throughout human history. This helps the development of skills in research and analysis of complex information, working independently and as part of a team, and articulate communication of judgments and arguments. In your Archaeology based modules you’ll study material remains in addition to other sources such as written evidence, and use scientific principles and concepts. Students have the opportunity to carry out self directed project work which helps self management, organisation and research skills.
Graduates in archaeology go on to careers in professional archaeology, museums and curatorial work, and a wide range of other professions such as education, business and industry, the Civil Service, and the media. Jobs taken by archaeology graduates include archives, conservation, heritage and museums roles, project officer and recruitment consultant. Employers of archaeology graduates include central and local government, museums, cultural and heritage organisations, charities and a range of commercial companies.
About 20% of archaeology graduates pursue postgraduate study to specialise in an area of archaeology or related disciplines of interest to them, or to prepare for careers such as law and teaching. To find out more about careers relating to archaeology degrees look at the 'Archaeology' section of the 'Options with your Subject' pages on www.prospects.ac.uk or look at the 'What do Graduates do?' report also available on the 'Prospects' website.
The University's Careers Network works with the Institute of Archaeology and Ancient History to provide tailored support to the students of archaeology during and after their course. This includes individual careers advice and events to give an insight into professions and employers of interest to students including our annual 'Careers in heritage, archaeology and museums' event. We also hold events covering careers in teaching, event management, law, marketing and working with charities, all of which can be of interest to archaeology students. The newly developed optional professional skills module allows students in their 2nd year to gain experience in a working environment which can lead to the development of further skills which are highly valued by employers. Placements are offered with the support of local employers. Anthropology and Archaeology students gain project management skills by planning and organising their study tours. We are developing links with heritage and cultural organisations to create more opportunities for students. Our students are encouraged to apply their skills in the workplace by undertaking internships in the summer; the work experience bursary scheme enables students to apply for funding for those career areas where placements are often unpaid. There is even an opportunity for students to apply for our 'Global Challenge' to work overseas on an expenses paid placement during their summer vacation.
Extra-curricular activities
To enhance your career prospects even further, you will need to think about engaging in some extra-curricular activities while you're at university to broaden your skills and your network of contacts. This can include the many societies at the Guild of Students and also the many voluntary opportunities offered with local arts organisations. Our employer-endorsed award-winning Personal Skills Award (PSA) recognises your extra-curricular activities, and provides an accredited employability programme designed to improve your career prospects.
Our College of Arts and Law undergraduate research scholarship scheme enables interested students to work on a current academic research project being run by one of the College's academic researchers. Undergraduate research scholars gain work experience over the summer after their first or second year and have the chance to develop skills in both collaborative and independent research.
Cultural Internships
Our innovative Cultural Internships offer graduates the opportunity for a six month paid internship at a leading cultural institution in the West Midlands. These internships are a unique opportunity to learn fundamental, transferable business and interpersonal skills, through experience of real work in an established cultural institution. Our current partners include Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery, Birmingham Royal Ballet, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Ironbridge Gorge Museums Trust and the Library of Birmingham. We have plans to expand the scheme to include our own major cultural assets, such as Winterbourne House, the Lapworth Museum, and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. This scheme will give you professional experience to set you apart in a competitive graduate market.