Archaeology

Key Facts

• Program Title: Archaeology
• Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
• Duration: 3 years
• Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
• Application Deadline: 14 January 2026
• Location: University of Southampton, United Kingdom
• Field of Study: Archaeology
• Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations in Archaeology and Human History

• Introduction to Archaeology and its Methods
• Human Evolution and Prehistory
• Archaeological Fieldwork Techniques
• Ancient Civilizations: Egypt, Greece, and Rome
• Archaeological Laboratory Skills and Analysis
• Introduction to Ancient Art and Material Culture

Year 2 – Intermediate Archaeology and Fieldwork

• Ancient Civilizations and Cultural Development
• Archaeological Science and Dating Methods
• Material Culture and Archaeological Interpretation
• Environmental Archaeology and Paleoecology
• Research Methods in Archaeology
• Fieldwork Module or Practical Archaeology Skills

Year 3 – Advanced Archaeology and Independent Research

• Archaeology of the Mediterranean and Near East
• Advanced Topics in Archaeological Theory and Practice
• Archaeology and Heritage Management
• Independent Research Project / Dissertation
• Archaeological Ethics and Public Engagement
• Elective Modules in Specialized Areas (e.g. Archaeobotany, Bioarchaeology, Archaeological Photography)

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Archaeology will be equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to pursue careers in cultural heritage management, archaeological research, museum curation, and heritage tourism. Career paths include archaeologist, heritage consultant, museum curator, field archaeologist, or conservation specialist. Graduates can also pursue roles with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations focused on cultural preservation and heritage management. The programme also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study in archaeology, museum studies, or cultural heritage. Employers highly value graduates with strong skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and heritage preservation, making them competitive in sectors such as heritage management, archaeological consulting, and public history.

Why Choose This Program

This programme offers an in-depth study of human history, focusing on the material remains of past societies, from prehistoric times to ancient civilizations. Students gain hands-on fieldwork experience and access to cutting-edge archaeological techniques, including laboratory analysis, surveying, and excavation methods. The programme also emphasizes archaeological theory, ethics, and heritage management, preparing students to engage with the cultural and social significance of archaeological sites. In the third year, students complete an independent research project, where they can specialize in specific areas of archaeology that interest them. The programme’s strong emphasis on field experience and research skills makes it ideal for students interested in preserving the past, exploring ancient civilizations, and working in museum curation, archaeological consultancy, or heritage management.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)23 8059 5000
Email: admissions@soton.ac.uk
Address: University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom