This programme provides the opportunity to study the ancient civilisations of Egypt and Western Asia, as well as Greece and Rome and prehistoric societies in the Mediterranean and Britain. By interpreting historical and archaeological evidence together, we can build a rounded picture of the life and culture of these ancient societies.
The Institute of Archaeology and Antiquity| is a lively environment where students find friendly encouragement to follow their own particular interests in the past, and where they can gain the necessary skills to equip them for a variety of careers in the future. We place a distinctive emphasis on the combination of archaeological and historical approaches in the study of the ancient world, and the range of expertise available ensures that a wide choice of periods, countries and cultures may be studied. To a large extent you can build your own degree through choice from the options available.
First year
This year you gain a firm grounding in the archaeology of Britain and the Mediterranean world through introductory lecture courses. You will also take an option in the history of either Greece and Rome or Egypt and the ancient Near East. Small-group project work will allow you to study a particular aspect of the ancient world in greater detail and to develop your research skills. You also gain practical experience through archaeological field training.
Second year
You may choose a core module investigating either Greek and Roman society or Egypt and Western Asia or one which will provide you with expertise in major archaeological sub-disciplines and professional techniques (for example, forensic or environmental archaeology). You also choose from a range of options in history, archaeology, literature, culture, language, myth, religion, art and philosophy. A special feature of the second year is the study tour abroad, a research project undertaken with financial support from the University. Further field training is also an option.
Third year
You again choose either an archaeological core module or a historical one, investigating either Egypt and Western Asia or Greece and Rome (whichever wasn’t taken in year 2). You also make your choice from a wide range of options. The highlight of the final year is your dissertation: a substantial research project on a subject of special interest to you.
Teaching and assessment
Alongside lectures, you will have tutorials, one-to-one meetings with supervisors, seminars and other group meetings with fellow students and staff, and self-directed project work.
Career opportunities
Graduates go on to careers in a wide range of areas including industry, finance, education, law, the Civil Service, and the media, as well as museums, archaeology and ancient history.