Overview

The BSc (Hons) Archaeology at the University of York examines human societies through archaeological evidence, scientific investigation and the study of material remains. The course combines archaeological theory with scientific and analytical approaches, enabling students to explore past environments, technologies, cultures and patterns of human activity.

What You'll Learn

• Archaeological approaches to investigating past societies, cultures and human activity.

• Scientific methods for analyzing artifacts, materials, sites and environmental evidence.

• Archaeological fieldwork, excavation, survey, recording and interpretation techniques.

• Human evolution, development and adaptation across different periods.

• Archaeological science, including approaches to understanding materials, environments and past technologies.

• Analysis of artifacts, landscapes and other forms of archaeological evidence.

• Archaeological theory and different frameworks for interpreting evidence from the past.

• Research methods, quantitative analysis, critical thinking and independent archaeological investigation.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to investigate archaeological questions using appropriate theoretical, scientific and analytical methods. They will understand how material, environmental and scientific evidence can be used to reconstruct aspects of past human societies and explain patterns of cultural and technological change. Students will develop practical skills in fieldwork, recording and examining archaeological evidence, alongside the ability to analyse and interpret data critically. They will be able to evaluate different archaeological explanations, recognize the strengths and limitations of research methods and construct evidence-based conclusions. The course also develops independent research, problem-solving and communication skills, enabling students to present archaeological findings clearly and explain their significance within broader interpretations of the human past.