Overview

Archaeology offers a genuine gateway into humanity's past, using material remains to explore what it means to be human, from our earliest ancestors through to the study of the contemporary world. The BA (Hons) Archaeology at the University of York builds a strong foundation in archaeological theory and method through lectures, hands-on artefact analysis and local site visits, exploring how personal and cultural bias shapes interpretations of history. Students benefit from genuinely wide-ranging option modules and specialist facilities, including the BioArCh Centre and the outdoor York Experimental Archaeology Research Centre, alongside a built-in excavation during the first year. The course suits students who want maximum flexibility to shape their own archaeological interests, with CIfA accreditation supporting entry into the wider heritage sector.

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What You'll Learn

• Human history from prehistory to the present, alongside artefacts, materials and archaeological theory

• Core scientific methods and techniques used in archaeological investigation

• Hands-on excavation experience, taught during the academic year in the first year of the course

• Specialist practical skills such as artefact analysis, human and animal bones, or computational archaeology

• Option modules covering topics from ancient DNA to digital approaches to heritage

• World archaeology, exploring societies and settlements beyond Britain

• Advanced final-year topics such as human evolution or the archaeology of disease and health

• An independent 8,000-word dissertation on a topic of your own choosing

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Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to critically engage with current debates in archaeological scholarship, drawing on evidence from multiple periods of human history and locations across the world. They will be equipped to design, execute and evaluate archaeological research projects, applying key theoretical, scientific and professional principles within an international context. Through hands-on excavation and analytical coursework, students will develop strong skills in generating, documenting and interpreting primary archaeological data using a range of digital technologies. Graduates will leave with a CIfA-accredited qualification and the confidence to communicate complex ideas to varied audiences, well prepared for careers spanning heritage organisations, museums, local government and a wide range of other sectors.