Overview

The BA (Hons) Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Bristol examines human societies through the study of material remains, cultural practices, biological development, and social life. The foundation stage builds the academic and analytical skills needed to investigate humanity across past and present contexts using complementary approaches.

What You'll Learn

• Archaeological methods for investigating human activity, societies, sites, and landscapes.

• Anthropology and the study of cultures, communities, identities, and social relationships.

• Human evolution, biological variation, and the development of human populations.

• Material culture, artefacts, and archaeological evidence from different societies.

• Cultural practices, beliefs, social organisation, and patterns of human behaviour.

• Relationships between people, environments, and changing social conditions.

• Methods for analysing and interpreting archaeological, anthropological, and biological evidence.

• Research methods, fieldwork, academic writing, independent investigation, and data interpretation.

• Critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and evidence-based problem solving.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to apply archaeological and anthropological approaches to questions about human societies, cultures, behavior, and development. They will understand how different forms of evidence can reveal aspects of human life across both past and contemporary settings and will recognize the strengths and limitations of different investigative methods. Students will develop the ability to assess evidence critically, compare interpretations, and select appropriate approaches for addressing complex questions about humanity. They will also be able to undertake independent research, analyze findings, construct evidence-based arguments, and communicate conclusions effectively. By integrating archaeology with anthropology, the course will strengthen students' analytical, research, practical, and intercultural abilities while providing a broad perspective on human diversity and social change.