About this course
Discover how human civilisations evolved, and why people and societies have changed over time. Through the latest techniques and technologies, you'll investigate how our ancestors lived, from the earliest human origins, to Neolithic Britain, and Ancient Egypt. You could look into climate change at the end of the last ice age or what the chemical composition of human bones can tell us about diet during the medieval period.
You'll focus on scientific methods and techniques with options including:
studying human and animal bones
physics and chemistry of archaeological material
laboratory techniques for dating
maritime archaeology
You'll learn through research-led projects, practical field experience and field trips. You'll do a minimum of 3 weeks' fieldwork as part of an active research project. This could include:
excavating archaeological sites
recording a standing building
geophysical surveys
collecting archaeological material from ploughed fields
We have a purpose-built archaeology building, equipped with the latest science-based laboratories. You'll gain hands-on experience with archaeological artefacts and materials, and receive the practical training needed for a career in archaeology.
You'll spend a year abroad at one of our partner institutions such as the University of Malta or the Universidad Autonoma de Barcelona. This will give you the chance to discover the theories and findings in exotic locations and boost your career opportunities.
We’re also offering up to 10 bursaries of £1000 each to incoming students (subject to criteria). These are from the Terry Mason Bursary and the University of Southampton Archaeology Bursary Fund.
Course location
This course is based at Avenue, Southampton.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.