Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This honours degree emphasises practical archaeology alongside theoretical and scientific approaches. In early stages you build core skills in archaeological recording, stratigraphy, finds processing, and archaeological science. As you progress you can specialise through optional modules in areas such as environmental archaeology, osteoarchaeology (human and animal bones), artefact studies, landscape archaeology, geophysical survey and GIS.

• Fieldwork and recording – excavation techniques, site surveying, context recording and health & safety on site.
• Laboratory methods – finds conservation and analysis, flotation and environmental sampling, zooarchaeology and basic osteology.
• Archaeological science – dating methods, geoarchaeology, soil micromorphology and analytical techniques used to interpret material evidence.
• Digital skills – GIS, photogrammetry, digital mapping and 3D recording for archaeological documentation and interpretation.
• Theory and practice – archaeological theory, heritage management, public archaeology and ethics, together with modules on the historic environment and legislation.
• Research project – an independent dissertation or practical project in your final year that develops specialist knowledge and research skills.

Teaching typically combines practical classes, laboratory sessions, fieldwork placements, seminars and lectures. Assessment mixes practical reports, artefact catalogues, lab write-ups, portfolios, presentations and written dissertations. Opportunities for short excavations and survey projects on the south coast supplement on-campus teaching; many programmes also provide optional placement or year-out opportunities in commercial archaeology or heritage organisations.

Entry requirements

Admissions look for evidence of academic ability and an interest in archaeology or related subjects. Typical offers require a combination of qualifications such as A-levels, BTECs, Access to Higher Education diplomas or the International Baccalaureate, with entry points set according to the awarding system. Where relevant, qualifications should include a mix of humanities and/or science subjects.

• Typical academic profile: A-levels or equivalent with passes in relevant subjects; BTEC applicants with complementary units are considered.
• International Baccalaureate: candidates with a full diploma are considered; specific component requirements depend on overall offer level.
• Access to Higher Education: acceptable where it demonstrates suitable academic preparation for degree study.
• Other requirements: some experience of voluntary excavation, museum work or relevant fieldwork is advantageous but not always essential; applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement outlining their interest in archaeology.
• English language: non-native speakers will need to meet recognised English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from an archaeology degree enter a wide range of careers. Many find work in commercial or developer-funded archaeology units conducting fieldwork, post-excavation analysis and reporting for planning-led projects. Other common destinations include museums and collections management, heritage and conservation organisations, historic environment services, and local authority archaeology teams.

• Commercial archaeologist (excavation, surveying and reporting)
• Museum curator, collections manager or education officer
• Heritage management, conservation and site interpretation
• Historic environment consultancy and planning archaeology
• Analytical roles in archaeological science laboratories or archaeological recording services
• Postgraduate research or taught master’s degrees leading to academic or specialist careers
• Skills developed on the course (field methods, GIS, scientific reporting, project management and public engagement) are also valued in related sectors such as cultural resource management, environmental consultancy and education)

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University’s archaeology provision emphasises hands-on training and employability. The programme integrates practical fieldwork and laboratory experience with digital and scientific methods, preparing students for the demands of professional archaeology and the wider heritage sector.

• Practical focus: regular supervised excavations, survey projects and laboratory classes give students direct experience of the methods used in contemporary archaeology.
• Location advantages: the south coast region offers diverse archaeological landscapes and accessible fieldwork opportunities that support teaching and student projects.
• Industry links and employability: connections with local heritage organisations, commercial units and museums help provide placement opportunities and real-world projects.
• Skills development: emphasis on transferable skills such as GIS, digital recording, scientific analysis and communication that are attractive to employers inside and outside archaeology.