Overview

The BA (Hons) Historical Archaeology at the University of York explores past societies through the study of material remains alongside documentary and historical evidence. The course brings archaeological and historical perspectives together to investigate how people lived, worked and interacted, while developing an understanding of how societies changed over time.

What You'll Learn

• Archaeological approaches to studying societies from the historical period.

• Material culture, artefacts, buildings and landscapes as evidence of past lives.

• Historical sources and methods for interpreting documentary evidence alongside archaeology.

• Archaeological fieldwork, excavation and approaches to recording physical evidence.

• Analysis and interpretation of archaeological materials and sites.

• Social, economic, political and cultural developments in past communities.

• Heritage, conservation and the ways archaeological evidence is interpreted and presented.

• Research methods, critical analysis, independent investigation and academic communication.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to use archaeological and historical evidence to investigate past societies and evaluate different interpretations of the past. They will understand how material remains, landscapes and documentary sources can be combined to develop a more detailed picture of historical communities and their development. Students will develop skills in examining archaeological evidence, interpreting sources and applying appropriate research methods to historical questions. They will also be able to critically assess evidence, construct well-supported arguments and communicate findings clearly in written, visual and other appropriate forms. The course encourages independent investigation and a critical understanding of how archaeological and historical evidence can reveal changing patterns of human life and society.